1970 Omega Speedmaster Professional Mark II “Racing” ref. 145.014

Mark II Speedmasters were the first radical departure from the traditional Speedmaster case, and instead of an exposed lug design, the MK II was designed with a tonneau shape featuring hidden lugs but was fitted with the same chronograph movement – the famous caliber 861 – that was also used in the Speedmaster Professional of the time (ref. 145.022).  The stainless steel case was chunkier and executed in a tonneau/barrel style, which was an aesthetic that was trending in 1970s watch design.

The steel versions were offered in a simple black dial nearly indistinguishable from the original, as well as a colorful orange and grey "Racing" dial seen here.  The tachymeter scale was moved from the exterior bezel of the watch to a position located on the underside of the flat mineral glass crystal. The most striking part of the watch is the dial design. The checkered seconds track on the periphery of the dial is in alternating shades of orange and red. Known as a "racing" dial, the look immediately jumps out. The neon red/orange chronograph hands not only increase the watch's legibility, but also call attention to the center of the dial. It is also rather unusual for the Omega logo under 12 o'clock to be executed in orange.

While larger in size than a standard Speedmaster, they are extremely comfortable to wear, and wonderful to behold.

Omega has reintroduced the "racing" dial pattern several times since the 1970s, most prominently in a 2004 Speedmaster limited edition for the Japanese market (ref. 3570.40) and the Speedmaster "Tintin" (ref. 311.30.42.30.01.004) from 2013. Omega brought the Speedmaster Mark II back to life in 2014, just in time for its 45th anniversary, with a re-edition (ref. 327.10.43.50.06.001) that remains largely true to the original release.

Condition

This particular example is in beautiful vintage condition.  All parts are original to the watch.  The dial and hands show no visible flaws, the lume on the main hands has aged to darker color; there are no signs of re-luming.  The case is unpolished and retains it's trademark linear brushing.  The crystal is original and there are no scratches.  The case back engraving is clearly visible but with some scratches (likely from rubbing of the bracelet over time). The chronograph functions crisply and correctly.   The watch was serviced in the past by the previous owner.  The crown operation is very smooth.  The movement is running at amplitude of 250 and gaining approximately +15 to +17 seconds per day.

The watch is paired with the correct Omega 1162/173 bracelet with minimal stretch and is suitable for wrists up to 8 inches.

Specifications:

Dimensions: 42mm diameter; 14mm thickness

Crystal: Mineral glass

Caliber: Manual winding 861

For a 50-year old vintage timepiece, this Speedmaster in our opinion is one the greatest value buys in this space.

IMPORTANT NOTES FOR BUYERS:
1. For shipping purpose: we will mark lower values at the Buyer’s request. We ship with discrete packaging.
2. We use DHL Express for international shipping. Shipping to most destinations is normally 2-3 days.
3. Preferred payment method is via bank transfer/wire.