Omega Speedmaster Professional “Blue Hesalite” 145.022 - Bracelet & Tropic Strap

The Omega Speedmaster, introduced in 1957 as a racing chronograph, quickly transcended its original purpose. In 1965, it was certified by NASA for all manned space missions and became the first watch worn on the Moon during Apollo 11 in 1969. Its historic role and timeless design have cemented the Speedmaster "Moonwatch" as one of the most iconic and important timepieces ever created. In 1968, Omega introduced reference 145.022, preserving much of the design language established with reference 105.012—most notably the signature twisted lugs. The most visible change was the switch from an applied to a printed Omega logo. More significantly, the model debuted a new movement: the caliber 861, based on the Lemania 1873. With a higher beat rate, it offered improved accuracy and durability. As the successor to the original Moonwatch, the 145.022 continued to accompany astronauts and remained in production until the late 1980s. The present example is a rare and intriguing variant from a very limited production batch, fitted with a blue-tinted plexiglass crystal—likely the result of a manufacturing anomaly. This subtle hue gives the dial a rich navy tone, creating a unique appearance from any other Speedmaster in history. Adding further charm, the tritium lume has aged to a warm, creamy beige. Beautifully preserved and accompanied by an additional tropic blue racing strap, this Speedmaster offers both extreme rarity and character—making it a highly desirable example of one of Omega’s most important references.