Omega
x-33 speedmaster fly to mars

Omega Speedmaster Professional X-33 — Ref. 3291.50 — “Fly to Mars” First Series — Titanium — Quartz cal. 1666 — 42 mm — Year 2001

“The future odyssey of Space is written in quartz.”

From the very first seconds, this first-series X-33 sets its course: an ultra-light titanium case, an analogue–digital display built for action, ergonomics designed for gloves and cockpit use. Born for spaceflight and extra-vehicular activity, it brings together low inertia, proven robustness and total legibility—from the darkness of a hangar to the blue halos of an orbital station. In the white light of a control centre, the logic of the X-33 becomes clear. Oversized pushers respond without hesitation, the crown toggles from one mode to the next like a checklist unrolling, and the backlight floods the LCD display without dazzling eyes accustomed to low light. Titanium removes the weight yet preserves the presence: the instrument disappears until the instant it must trigger, measure, alert. Back on Earth, the same simplicity has the same effect: on a long-haul flight, during a training session or on a night drive, the X-33 retains that functional assurance that reassures professionals and seduces aesthetes.

The model’s story at Omega begins in 1998, when the brand conceived a digital–analogue Speedmaster aimed at pilots, astronauts and mission engineers. The first series, to which this 2001 example belongs, distils the pure “instrument” spirit: lightness, precision and travellers of sky and orbit firmly in its sights. Proven in extreme environments and adopted by numerous crews and test units, the X-33 extends the “Professional” heritage into a domain where utility dictates design. The year 2001 marks the end of this first iteration; our piece belongs to the closing period of First Series production—a milestone prized by connoisseurs. The technical description reads like a specification sheet. The 42 mm titanium case (around 45% lighter than steel) limits inertia, naturally resists corrosion (mineral acids, chlorides) and is biologically inert. The graduated bezel rotates to set a visual marker; the crystal protects a dual display: luminous baton hands for instant reading, an LCD for operational precision. Tested by technical teams to 3 bar (30 m), resistant to shocks and vibrations up to 3,500 G and compliant with the anti-magnetic requirements of ISO 764, the X-33 takes pressure, temperature and electromagnetic variation in its stride. Inside, the Omega 1666 quartz calibre (9 jewels) delivers accuracy of approximately −0.3 to +0.5 seconds per day and operates effortlessly from −20 °C to +70 °C—figures that speak to pilots and engineers alike.

As for functions, the tool speaks for itself. MET (Mission Elapsed Time) displays days, hours, minutes and seconds—indispensable for measuring the full duration of a mission, and equally useful on the ground for timing a long training session. UTC appears at a touch to avoid the pitfalls of time zones and clock changes, while local time keeps everyday life in view. A finely legible chronograph, a precise countdown, a powerful alarm (≈ 80 dB) and instant backlighting complete the toolkit: everything is designed for efficiency in darkness, noise and constraint. The X-33 can also display the day of the week, hours, minutes and seconds. Like a GMT function, UTC helps the wearer avoid any confusion caused by changing time zones. On the wrist, function and style meet. Unisex by nature, the X-33 addresses frequent travellers, passionate pilots, fans of utilitarian design and collectors of the space age. Titanium and the case architecture deliver surprising comfort: light yet present, technical without ostentation, it switches from a titanium bracelet to a textile strap without losing coherence. With an MA-1 jacket or a black blazer, it remains what it is: a professional instrument—sufficiently understated for the city, sufficiently serious for the tarmac.

Condition & set contents. 2001 example — “Fly to Mars” First Series — in very fine overall condition, inspected by our workshop prior to sale. Delivered on an Omega titanium bracelet and accompanied by our Mostra travel pouch. (Original box and papers if specified on the price sheet/order form; please contact us for the exact set composition.) Mostra Client Advantages. In Aix-en-Provence, our workshop handles this X-33 like a mission instrument: inspection, water-resistance service, gasket replacement, accuracy testing, consumption diagnostics, and water-resistance verification to 3 bar. Our 3-year Mostra guarantee (parts & labour on our interventions) and traceable authenticity secure your investment while preserving resale value. Mostra—renowned for its service and customer experience—has been recognised in the specialist press as the pre-owned specialist. For operating advice (MET/UTC settings, strap changes, servicing), our team provides long-term support. Production & historical markers. Commercial launch of the Speedmaster X-33: 1998. First series: 1998–2001 (our example: 2001, end-of-series). The X-33 would later continue its trajectory with further evolutions, but the First Series retains the original DNA sought by those who want the project’s purest form.

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