Stainless steel OMEGA ref. 2998 Speedmaster chronograph wristwatch. Made 1963

Information

• Brand: OMEGA
• Made: 1963
• Model: Speedmaster
• Reference: 2998
• Calibre: 321
• Movement: Manual
• Material: Stainless steel
• Features/complications: Chronograph and Tachymetre bezel 
• Dial: Black matt dial with luminous painted baton indexes, outer minute/seconds divisions, outermost 1/5 second divisions featuring subsidiary seconds at 9 o’clock, 30 minute register at 3 o’clock and 12 hour register at 6 o’clock with luminous baton hands, and arrowhead centre chronograph seconds
• Case dimensions: 38mm
• Bracelet/strap: Leather strap
• Accessories: -
• SKU: 02277

Essay

The Speedmaster Reference 2998 was the second generation of OMEGA Speedmaster. Launched in 1959 with the 2998-1; The 2998 is an unusual reference as there are 8 different sub-references produced within a space of only 3 years.

The Speedmaster was undergoing constant updates with elements of its design and iconography as well as reference nomenclature being modernised throughout its early production. This has led to each sub-reference having its own particular features which were often updated throughout routine servicing making many watches an assembly of various service replacement parts. This makes finding original, correct examples a challenge to locate and has led the 2998 to become a favourite among collectors.