Omega
speedmaster full-set 1978 space-shuttle - calibre c-861

Omega Speedmaster Professional Vintage ST 145.022.78 with its original box. A pre-owned and collectible chronograph powered by the Omega Calibre 861, the second movement in the Speedmaster’s history. What makes this model special is its highly sought-after Omega movement, the reliable successor to the Calibre 321. This movement was used in the Speedmasters worn by most astronauts during the Space Shuttle program. But the true rarity of this watch lies in its tachymeter bezel, which has naturally faded over time into a beautiful bluish hue.

The 42mm screw-down caseback is in excellent condition, adorned with the signature Seahorse medallion and engraved markings certifying the watch’s qualification for spaceflight. This manual-winding mechanical movement has 17 jewels and beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour. Its copper-colored finish adds to its vintage charm. Developed by Omega based on the Lemania 1873 chronograph movement, it features a flat hairspring and cam-switching system. The movement is housed under an anti-magnetic protective cover between the caseback and movement.

The Lemania 1873 calibre is known for its outstanding reliability. It offers excellent resistance to temperature variations and is considered capable of enduring prolonged exposure to rapid changes in acceleration and repeated shocks. This legendary robustness has made it a preferred base for many renowned watchmakers in their flagship models, including Universal Genève with the Calibre 84, Tag Heuer, Eberhard & Co., and Breitling for its Navitimer chronograph with traditional display. Moreover, the Breitling Calibre 12 found in the Navitimer Cosmonaute, featuring a 24-hour time display, is based on the Lemania 1877 — identical to the 1873 but with a modified hour hand gear ratio for slower rotation.

As for the dial specifics of this Speedmaster, the Moonwatch dial features two dots at the base of the twelve o’clock hour marker. The “S” in Speedmaster is of the elongated “Big-S” type, and the inscription “T Swiss Made T” is located below the outer minute track. Three subdials — for hours, minutes, and seconds — ensure optimal legibility. The chronograph operates in “small seconds” mode with Stop and Go function. The central seconds hand is a Flat Second, paired with Tritium-lumed B5 hands for hours and minutes. The fixed tachymeter bezel, graduated counter-clockwise from 60 to 500, is elegantly framed in steel and surrounds a Plexiglas crystal.

Omega collector’s watch in stainless steel, water-resistant to 5 ATM. Given its production date, this model is increasingly hard to find. Its collector value is expected to reach that of the Calibre 321, and its exceptional condition further enhances its appeal for enthusiasts. You can read an article on the Speedmaster’s history by following this link, and discover the history of Omega and its record-setting watches on our "Watch Stories" page.

The Speedmaster chronograph is a versatile watch used in aviation and motorsports. Its features and vintage-chic aesthetic have earned it regular appearances on film sets, with frequent appearances in many acclaimed movies.

Discover our pre-owned Omega Speedmaster