It was finally auctioned for 2.956 million euros (2.411 million euros excluding costs) at the Philips Auction watch auction on October 5.
Lot 53 from this sale was a Speedmaster CK2915-1 from 1957. However, this collector's timepiece was “only” estimated between 75,000 and 115,000 euros.
This first generation model of the Speedmaster, reference CK 2915, is in fact considered the “Holy Grail” by collectors.
It was in its time the first chronograph to feature a tachymeter scale on the bezel, rather than on the dial - and the first Speedmaster to embed the caliber 321, an extremely robust and reliable movement, which would extend into space and land. Moon on the wrist of astronauts.
What attracts the attention of the greatest watch collectors around the world.
Key differences from later generation models include the large 'Broad Arrow' minute and hour hands, metal bezel, and unique dial graphics, recognizable by the oval 'O' from Omega.
Phillips auction
But what is its particular sign, what makes its charm and its rarity, to the point of reaching such altitudes at auction?
Its absolutely incredible chocolate-colored dial.
As the brand explained following this auction which it can only rejoice for the reputation and value of its vintage models
, “while many collectibles are appreciated for having been stored safely in the dark for decades this extraordinary Omega has lived an active life, often in direct sunlight, resulting in a unique 'tropical' dial that has aged to an incredible chocolate hue. "
Phillips auction
The most astonishing thing is the uniformity of this chocolate shade, which almost seems to be original.
The luminescent elements of the indexes and the hands have aged at the same rate, giving the screen an attractive golden tone, and in the process helping to prove the authenticity of what is nicknamed the tropicalization of a watch.
Phillips auction
This auction establishes a new for the Swiss brand, which can also be found on the big screen at the moment on the wrist of Daniel Craig alias James Bond.
In addition to the watch, the new owner received an
Omega
"Extract from the archives
" confirming the production of this watch on November 22, 1957. What can you expect, in terms of watchmaking, precision is second nature!