1971 Omega Speedmaster Professional Mark II “Racing” 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 orange chronograph hands not only increase the watch's legibility, but also call attention to the center of the dial. 

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 reedition (ref. 327.10.43.50.06.001) that remains largely true to the original release.

Condition:

Case: The case is in excellent condition with the correct combination of brushed and polisehd services.

Dial & Hands:  Omega service dial “Swiss Made” with vibrant orange accents.  Lume retains it's original green tone and fully intact on the dial and hands. 

Movement:  The movement was serviced by the previous owner.  Crown action is smooth and chrono buttons have crisp action.  The movement has been tested and is running well for its age, gaining approximately 14 seconds per day with amplitude of 244.

Bracelet: The watch is paired with Omega 1118/154 bracelet in good condition.

Specifications:

Reference: 145.014
Case No: N/A; Movement No: 31616XXX
Material: Stainless steel 
Dimensions: 42mm diameter; 14mm thickness 
Crystal: Mineral glass 
Lume: Yes, tritium 
Caliber: Manual winding 861 
Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Omega 1118 bracelet with No. 154 end-links. (Fits wrist up to 7.7in)
Lug Width: 20mm
Box/Papers: No