Omega Speedmaster Schumacher - New Old Stock (Ref. 3518.50), 2000

Dealer description — Huntington Company

Specifications Reference: 3518.50 Model: Speedmaster Reduced Movement: Automatic Year: The watch was introduced in 2000 for Micheal Schumacher. The case serial number dates to 1998 which is common to see. Similar to finding a vintage Rolex that has a case serial a few years older than the date stamped on the papers when it was sold. Contents: Complete box and papers set. Case: The 39mm case is in fantastic shape with light handling marks and the original caseback sticker. Dial: The classic checkered dial is in perfect condition and was only produced for this limited edition model of 6000. Strap & Buckle: The bracelet is in fantastic shape and shows the same light handling marks as the case. Worth The Read The history of the Omega Speedmaster dates back to 1957 when the first Speedmaster model was launched. Designed as a robust and precise chronograph for motorsport enthusiasts, the Speedmaster quickly caught the attention of NASA and underwent rigorous testing for space missions. In 1965, it was officially chosen by NASA as the official watch for all manned space missions, making it the first watch to be worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. This historic association with space exploration earned the Speedmaster the nickname "MoonWatch," solidifying its place as one of the most revered timepieces in history. The Speedmaster Reduced shares the same pedigree and heritage as the MoonWatch but has some notable differences. The most apparent distinction lies in its size. The Speedmaster Reduced features a 39mm case, which is smaller than the 42mm size of the MoonWatch. This reduced size makes it more suitable for wearers with smaller wrists or those who prefer a more restrained and comfortable fit. Additionally, the Speedmaster Reduced houses an automatic movement, while the MoonWatch is equipped with a manual-winding movement. The automatic movement in the Reduced allows the watch to self-wind through the natural motion of the wrist, eliminating the need for manual winding daily. On the other hand, the manual-winding movement in the MoonWatch has a unique charm for watch enthusiasts who appreciate the traditional and tactile aspect of winding their timepieces.