The Omega Speedmaster 861 145.022: a legend of space exploration

The Omega Speedmaster 145.022, launched in 1968, introduced the robust and easier-to-produce Caliber 861, replacing the legendary 321. It became the workhorse of the Speedmaster line for over two decades, accompanying astronauts on numerous missions after Apollo 11. Today, it’s prized for its durability, its strong ties to space exploration, and its vintage aesthetics, especially the tritium patina.

A milestone in the Speedmaster saga

The Omega Speedmaster 145.022 is one of the most iconic models in the famous Speedmaster collection. Launched in 1968, this reference marked a significant transition in both movement and design. It’s highly sought after by collectors for its links to space exploration and its role in continuing a legendary series of chronographs.

From racing origins to space missions

Introduced in 1957 for motor racing, the Speedmaster stood out for its tachymeter on the external bezel—a major innovation at the time. In 1965, after rigorous testing, NASA selected it as the official chronograph for space missions, including Gemini and Apollo. The “Moonwatch” nickname came after Buzz Aldrin wore it on the Moon during Apollo 11 in 1969.

The introduction of Caliber 861

The 145.022 represented a technical leap from earlier models, replacing the column-wheel Caliber 321 with the cam-actuated Caliber 861. This movement, developed by Albert Piguet of Lemania, was designed for easier mass production while retaining precision and robustness. It beat at 21,600 vibrations per hour—higher than the 18,000 of the 321—improving stability and timing.

Technical specifications of Caliber 861

• Manual-wind chronograph movement
• 17 jewels
• 21,600 vibrations/hour (3 Hz)
• 30-minute and 12-hour counters, plus small seconds
• Horizontal clutch, cam-actuated chronograph

A workhorse of space exploration

While the 321 is famed for the first Moon landing, the 861 powered most Speedmasters after 1968. It flew on the last Apollo missions, Skylab, and Apollo-Soyuz in 1975. It passed NASA’s extreme-condition tests—surviving zero gravity, temperature extremes, and vibrations—cementing its reputation among collectors and professionals alike.

Evolution into Caliber 1861

In 1996, the 861 was replaced by the rhodium-plated Caliber 1861, which improved corrosion resistance and finishing. Still, the 861 remains a vintage favorite, representing a pivotal era in Speedmaster and space history.

Design changes on the 145.022

This reference introduced “stick” hands, replacing earlier “alpha” or “dauphine” styles, while retaining the 42 mm case, black tachymeter bezel, and three-register dial. From 1968 to the 1990s, tritium lume was used, developing patina from yellow to cream over time—an aesthetic highly prized by collectors.

Variants of the 145.022

• 145.022-68 – Early production, similar to previous models, with “First Omega in Space” case back
• 145.022-69 – Updated stick hands, case back engraving referencing the first Moon landing
• 145.022-71 and later – Logo and finish tweaks through the 1970s until 1996

A collector’s essential

The Speedmaster 145.022 blends technical innovation, space heritage, and timeless design. Well-preserved examples with original tritium dials, vintage tachymeter bezels, and correct case backs are especially sought after. Each variant reflects a chapter of both space exploration and horological history.