1971 Omega Speedmaster (Professional) Mark III 176.0002
Mint silver dial example with rare Telemeter insert
$2600.00
Out of stock
The Omega Speedmaster has evolved over time beyond the Moonwatch which we all know and love, including this unusual Mark III, the first automatic Speedmaster model produced.
Following Omega's participation in the Apollo missions, the brand expanded the Speedmaster line with variants known commonly as the "Mark" Series - one of the most polarizing lines among today's Omega disciples. Though met with a varied reception from Speedmaster purists, the 'Marks' represent a fascinating off-shoot in design and functionality that has given rise to a cult collector following today. Of all Omega's Mark designs the Mark III is perhaps the most innovative--not just aesthetically, but technically as well. Like its immediate predecessor, the Mark II, the Mark III was drenched in a decidedly '70s design language. The chunky steel 'helmet' case and hidden-lugs are emblematic of the era and represent to some the beginning of the big watch phenomenon.
The Omega Speedmaster (Professional) Mark III reference 176.002 was introduced in 1971 and featured an automatic chronograph movement for the first time in a Speedmaster. Omega and Lemania jointly developed this movement (officially documented as the Omega caliber 1040a) also known as Lemania caliber 1341. The dial features a central 60 minutes counter, stopwatch counting a minute in 1/5ths of a second, a 12-hrs counter, a double counter ( seconds counter and a 24-hrs dial) and a date.
The case is very similar to that of the famous Flightmaster and was offered first with a black dial and then with the metallic blue and silver dial you see here. It belongs to that specific period in time (1970s) when funky large watch cases were considered modern. This is an amazing watch on the wrist that has a truly unique aesthetic.
Condition
This particular example is one of the nicest Speedmaster Mark III you'll see offered. The hands and dial are near perfect with no visible degradation to the lume. The massive case retains its factory brushing with no noticeable scratches and the case back engraving is strong.
The watch was serviced by the previous owner in 2024. All functions operate smoothly and its keeping time very accurately for its age only losing 2 seconds per day with an amplitude of 294.
Specifications:
Reference: 176.0002
Year: Early 1970s
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 41mm diameter; 16.5mm thickness
Crystal: Mineral glass
Lume: Tritium
Caliber: Omega self-winding caliber 1040
Bracelet/Strap: New navy blue, calf leather strap with Omega buckle
Lug Width: 22mm
Box/Papers: N/A
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