The Omega Speedmaster CK2915: a legend born in 1957

The Omega Speedmaster CK2915, launched in 1957, was born as a racing watch before becoming the legendary Moonwatch. This first model stands out for its caliber 321, exceptional legibility, and design innovations that laid the foundations for a watchmaking icon.

Origins of the Omega Speedmaster CK2915

The Omega Speedmaster, launched in 1957, is one of the most iconic watches in modern watchmaking, notably due to its link with space missions and NASA. However, before becoming the legendary "Moonwatch", the Speedmaster was designed as a racing watch, intended for a completely different purpose. Here’s a detailed look at the birth and evolution of the first model from 1957, reference CK2915.

In the 1950s, Omega established itself as a manufacturer of robust professional watches. The company sought to capitalize on the growing demand for technical and sport watches, capable of meeting the specific needs of professionals in demanding environments. It was in this context that Omega decided to launch in 1957 a collection of watches designed for engineers, divers, and pilots.

The 1957 Trio

The 1957 trio includes three models: the Omega Seamaster 300 (a dive watch), the Railmaster (anti-magnetic watch for engineers and technicians inspired by the legend of rails and railways), and the Speedmaster (racing watch for timing sports performances). The Speedmaster was designed with the needs of automobile drivers in mind, focusing on legibility, robustness, and precision in timing.

Innovations of the CK2915

The CK2915 reference, the first Omega Speedmaster, introduced in 1957 several innovations that would define the watch in the years to come: the 39mm stainless steel case with straight lugs, both robust and elegant, and the tachymeter bezel — a major innovation at the time. Instead of placing the tachymeter scale on the dial (as on some chronographs from the 1940s), Omega integrated it into the external bezel, facilitating speed measurement over a set distance, especially in auto racing.

Movement and Technical Features

• The Speedmaster CK2915 is powered by a manual-winding Omega caliber 321, a robust chronograph movement developed by Albert Piguet at Lemania (a company linked to Omega at the time). This column-wheel caliber became famous for its precision, durability, and exceptional reliability.
• The matte black dial features radium luminescent stick indexes for optimal legibility in low-light conditions. The steel "broad arrow" hands are characteristic of the early models, giving the watch a unique vintage style.
• The domed plexiglass crystal, robust for its time, provided decent protection but was less scratch-resistant than modern sapphire crystals. The CK2915 also offered water resistance, making it versatile. Its stainless steel bracelet was designed for comfort and durability, with expandable links near the clasp.

An Iconic Timeless Design

Since its launch, the Omega Speedmaster owes much of its success to the exceptional legibility of its dial, with hands and sub-dials designed for maximum readability in extreme conditions.

The first CK2915 models are now highly sought after by collectors. Variants of the CK2915 introduced subtle changes, such as differences in the hands and bezel design, creating multiple references within the first generation.

Legacy of the CK2915

Although originally designed for automobile drivers and speed enthusiasts, the CK2915 paved the way for a lineage of watches that would conquer space. Its robustness and innovative design made it suitable for the most challenging environments — qualities that caught NASA’s attention a few years later.

The CK2915, with its caliber 321 and avant-garde design, laid the foundations for what would become one of the most iconic watches in the world. While its initial popularity was limited to motorsport enthusiasts, it quickly gained recognition as both functional and elegant. The evolution of Speedmaster models would carry forward this spirit of performance, culminating in its historic role in NASA’s space missions.

The year 1957 remains a milestone not only for the Speedmaster but also for Omega, marking the beginning of the era of technical watches that would dominate watchmaking in the decades to come.