Omega Speedmaster 20-Year Collector Journey: From FOiS to the Perfect Moonwatch

Quick Questions

• What makes the Omega Speedmaster the ultimate collector's grail after decades of searching?
• How does the First Omega in Space compare to the classic Moonwatch for everyday wear?
• Why do so many enthusiasts struggle to choose between sapphire and hesalite crystals?
• Is a vintage Speedmaster from your birth year worth the long and difficult hunt?
• Which modern Speedmaster release finally ended a 20-year quest for perfection?

For some collectors, picking a favorite Omega Speedmaster is love at first sight—whether it's the legendary Moonwatch, a modern automatic, or a vintage straight-lug. For me, however, the path was anything but direct. My admiration for the Speedmaster's iconic silhouette, its deep-rooted space history, and its undeniable aesthetic appeal made me want one dearly, yet selecting the right reference turned into a two-decade saga filled with deliberation and near-misses.

Why the Speedmaster Stands Alone

The Speedmaster's place in horology is unmatched. It was the first watch worn on the lunar surface and remains the only chronograph NASA has certified for every manned space mission. The 1965 reference ST 105.003 earned the official designation “flight-qualified by NASA for all manned space missions,” a credential that alone justifies its iconic status. Beyond its cosmic résumé, the Speedmaster is a marvel of design and heritage, but the sheer variety—from vintage treasures to limited editions, from hand-wound movements to automatics—can leave even seasoned collectors overwhelmed.

A Pivotal Acquisition: The First Omega in Space

In 2013, at the inaugural Speedy Tuesday event in Noordwijk, Netherlands, I secured my first Speedmaster: the first-generation First Omega in Space (FOiS). This model drew me in with its symmetrical case, a stark contrast to the Moonwatch's protective crown guards. Wearing smaller on the wrist and paired with a leather strap, it offered a purist's interpretation of the Speedmaster design. The FOiS honors astronaut Wally Schirra, who wore his personal CK2998 aboard the Sigma 7 mission in 1962, making it the first Omega in space.

For a time, the FOiS quenched my Speedmaster thirst. But a lingering thought remained: it wasn't THE Moonwatch. So the search resumed.

The Moonwatch Conundrum

I narrowed my focus exclusively to the Moonwatch—no automatics, no straight lugs, no exotic materials. The ongoing debate between sapphire and hesalite crystals, and whether to opt for a transparent caseback, kept me in a state of indecision. Then Omega introduced the Ed White edition with a modern remake of the legendary caliber 321, followed by the Canopus gold variant—a dream watch, but with a price tag that gave me pause. Still, I couldn't commit.

Exploring the Vintage Route

I then turned to vintage Speedmasters, hoping to find one from my birth year, complete with box and papers. This hunt proved demanding, as I scoured auctions and dealers for the perfect piece. Just as I was deeply entrenched in this pursuit, Omega unveiled a new Moonwatch earlier this year that instantly captured my attention. I knew immediately that my search had reached its conclusion.

The Final Revelation

To discover which exact model brought my 20-year journey to an end, watch the video above. I'd also love to hear about your favorite Speedmaster in the comments below.

More Questions About Omega Speedmaster

• How much does an Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch cost in 2026?
• Is the Omega Speedmaster a good investment for collectors?
• What is the difference between the Speedmaster Moonwatch and the First Omega in Space?
• Which Omega Speedmaster model is the most collectible?
• How can I tell if an Omega Speedmaster is authentic?
• What is the history of the Omega Speedmaster and its NASA connection?
• Why is the Omega Speedmaster called the Moonwatch?
• What is the Calibre 321 in the Omega Speedmaster Ed White?
• What are the different Omega Speedmaster models available today?
• Is the Speedmaster First Omega in Space a good everyday watch?
• What is the best vintage Omega Speedmaster to buy?
• How does the Speedmaster compare to the Rolex Daytona?
• Where can I buy a high-quality Omega Speedmaster replica?
• What is the water resistance of the Omega Speedmaster?
• How often should I service my Omega Speedmaster?
• What is the difference between hesalite and sapphire crystals on the Speedmaster?
• Is the Omega Speedmaster suitable for a small wrist?
• What is the resale value of a pre-owned Omega Speedmaster?
• How can I find a Speedmaster from my birth year?
• Does the Omega Speedmaster hold its value over time?