Signed Omega, Speedmaster Professional, "Moonwatch” model, ref. 345.0802 no. A031 , movement no. 45’580’519, circa 1980

Even if not explicitly mentioned on its case, the Apollo XI 1980 model was probably made to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. The yellow gold version is estimated at 300 pieces delivered between 1980 and 1988. According to scholars, half of the production was delivered to Germany such as the present watch, confirmed for the German market on its extract from the archives. Most pieces were produced with a gold bracelet but a minority of approximately a dozen pieces are known to bear a leather strap. However the most important feature of this watch definitely is its snap on sapphire-crystal case back. This model is the first Speedmaster featuring a glazed back displaying the beautiful movement detail of caliber 861. It is also differs from the previous models by being the first Speedmaster with a snap on case back instead of screwed-down. This watch is furthermore fully complete with its original Omega certificate authenticating the watch to be number 31 of this very special Speedmaster series and an unsigned typed letter from Genral Thomas P. Stafford, former astronaut, explaining the Omega connection with the NASA. Finally, but not last, this timepiece is enhanced by its exceptionally untouched condition. Revealing its original and delicate brushing and some very sharp edges on the band, the present watch remains in its original and unspoiled condition.

Besides being a well-recognized astronaut in the 1970’s, General Stafford was also Chairman of The Board of Omega in America. Today, together with Buzz Aldrin and Eugene Cernan, this highly experimented spacecraft pilot is part of the Omega ambassadors and owns the exact same model as the present watch, numbered A217 and engraved with his name on the band.