The Omega Speedmaster Ed White 321 is not just a watch; it's a piece of history, a testament to horological craftsmanship, and a highly sought-after collector's item. Its recent appearance on the market, listed for $16,975 USD (as seen in the October 25th, 2024, listing by alextakuya), underscores its enduring appeal and significant value. This article delves into the intricacies of this particular timepiece, exploring its historical context, technical specifications, market value, and its place within the broader landscape of Omega Speedmaster 321 models, both vintage and modern.
A Legacy Forged in Space:
The story of the Omega Speedmaster Ed White 321 begins with its namesake, astronaut Edward Higgins White II. During the Gemini 4 mission in 1965, White became the first American to perform a spacewalk, a pivotal moment in the history of space exploration. Crucially, he wore an Omega Speedmaster on his wrist, a watch that would become inextricably linked with the triumphs and challenges of the space race. This specific model, the Omega Speedmaster Calibre 321, represents the very movement that powered the Speedmasters worn by the Apollo astronauts, including during the iconic moon landings. The reissue of the Ed White model, a faithful recreation of the watch worn by White, evokes this powerful connection to history, making it a highly desirable piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The significance of the Calibre 321 movement cannot be overstated. This manually wound chronograph movement, with its intricate design and robust construction, was the heart of the Speedmaster's legendary reliability and accuracy. Its intricate components, meticulously crafted, represent the pinnacle of mechanical watchmaking of its era. The fact that the Ed White model utilizes this historically important movement further elevates its status among collectors. The $16,975 price tag reflects not only the rarity of the piece but also the inherent value of owning a watch with such a rich and significant past.
Technical Specifications and Design Elements:
The Omega Speedmaster Ed White 321, as seen in the listing, boasts a number of key features that contribute to its desirability. While specific details may vary slightly between individual pieces, the core elements remain consistent:
* Calibre 321 Movement: The heart of the watch, this manually wound chronograph movement is a faithful reproduction of the original, capturing its essence and performance characteristics. Its intricate design is a testament to Omega's horological expertise.
* 39.7mm Case Size: The slightly smaller case size compared to some modern Speedmasters contributes to its vintage aesthetic appeal, offering a more refined and classic look on the wrist. This size makes it comfortable for a wide range of wrist sizes, adding to its versatility.
* Hesalite Crystal: The use of Hesalite crystal, rather than sapphire, is a deliberate nod to the historical accuracy of the original. While less scratch-resistant than sapphire, Hesalite is known for its unique optical properties, offering a slightly warmer and more vintage aesthetic.
* Authenticity and Full Set: The listing specifies that the watch is a "full set," indicating that it comes with all the original packaging, documentation, and accessories. This adds significantly to its value and authenticity, providing peace of mind to the buyer.
* Warranty: The mention of a full warranty further enhances the appeal of this particular offering, providing assurance and protection for the buyer.
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