The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch has a legendary status, synonymous with space exploration and enduring quality. Within its illustrious lineage sits a particularly rare and coveted model: the Omega Speedmaster Alaska Project. This article delves into the allure of this exceptional timepiece, focusing on a specific listing currently priced at $21,495 (Omega.), exploring its history, design, and the factors contributing to its high value in the collector's market. We'll also examine related search terms like "omega Alaska project for sale," "omega Alaska project model," "Omega Speedmaster project Alaska," "Omega Speedmaster Alaska," and "omega moonwatch Alaska project," to provide a comprehensive understanding of this fascinating watch.
A History Frozen in Time: The Genesis of the Alaska Project
The Omega Speedmaster Alaska Project, officially referenced as the Speedmaster Professional "Alaska Project" (reference number 145.012-68), wasn't originally intended for commercial sale. Its story is intricately woven with NASA's ambitious space program. In the 1970s, NASA sought a robust and reliable chronograph capable of withstanding the extreme temperature fluctuations experienced during spacewalks and other extravehicular activities (EVAs). The existing Speedmaster Professional, while proven in lunar missions, needed further enhancements to meet these demanding conditions.
NASA's engineers, recognizing the limitations of the standard Speedmaster, worked with Omega to develop a specialized version. This collaboration resulted in the Alaska Project, a modified Speedmaster Professional featuring several key distinctions:
* White Dial: Unlike the familiar black dial of the standard Speedmaster, the Alaska Project boasted a striking white dial, enhancing readability in low-light conditions. This white dial, however, wasn't simply a matter of aesthetic choice. The white dial provided higher contrast, crucial for improved visibility in the bright sunlight and shadows experienced during spacewalks.
* Broad Arrow Hands: The hands, too, were modified. The distinctive broad arrow hands, a design element that has become synonymous with the Alaska Project, offer increased visibility and aid in quick time reading. These hands, in conjunction with the white dial, were critical improvements for enhancing the legibility in extreme light conditions.
* Double Caseback: The most notable feature, and the one that truly sets the Alaska Project apart, is its unique double caseback. The standard Speedmaster's caseback was replaced with a protective outer caseback, creating a double-layered protection against the elements. This innovation was specifically designed to protect the movement from extreme temperature fluctuations and potential damage during EVAs. This double caseback is the most striking feature for collectors and is the most sought-after element of the watch.
* Limited Production: Because the Alaska Project was primarily a specialized tool for NASA astronauts, its production run was extremely limited. This scarcity, coupled with its unique features, contributes significantly to its high value today. The exact number of units produced remains a subject of some debate among collectors, further enhancing its mystique.
The $21,495 Listing: A Closer Look
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Alaska Project listed at $21,495 (Omega.) represents a significant investment. This price reflects the watch's rarity, its historical significance, and its impeccable condition (assuming the listing accurately reflects the watch's state). Several factors influence the price of a pre-owned Alaska Project:
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