Omega Moonwatch

Omega Speedmaster Professional Ref. 145.022 | NASA Caseback | Cal. 861 | Blue Factory Sealing Wax

Description

This Omega Speedmaster Professional Ref. 145.022 represents the backbone of Speedmaster history. It’s the reference that carried the Moonwatch legacy forward through the Apollo era and beyond, defined by robustness, legibility, and mechanical honesty.

At its heart is the legendary Calibre 861 manual-wind chronograph movement. Introduced in the late 1960s, the 861 is a cam-operated evolution of Lemania’s proven chronograph architecture, chosen for reliability, accuracy, and ease of service. It powered Speedmasters for decades and remains one of the most respected chronograph movements ever produced.

What sets this particular example apart is the caseback. The iconic NASA engraving is present, and crucially, original blue factory sealing lacquer remains intact around the medallion. This blue wax is not ink, paint, or residue. It is factory-applied sealing lacquer used by Omega to secure the medallion and provide an additional moisture barrier.

On most Speedmasters, this lacquer disappeared long ago due to repeated servicing, polishing, or aggressive cleaning. Its survival here is a strong originality indicator and immediately signals careful ownership and minimal interference over the decades. Seasoned collectors actively look for this detail.

Specifications

• Brand: Omega
• Model: Speedmaster Professional
• Reference: 145.022
• Movement: Manual wind chronograph, Calibre 861
• Case Material: Stainless steel
• Case Diameter: Approx. 42 mm
• Crystal: Hesalite
• Bezel: Black tachymeter bezel
• Dial: Original Speedmaster Professional dial
• Caseback: NASA engraved with original blue factory sealing lacquer present
• Bracelet/Strap: Period correct (as fitted)
• Water Resistance: Not guaranteed due to age

Condition Report

• Dial: Original with strong legibility and even vintage aging.
• Case: Stainless steel case showing honest wear consistent with age. Caseback engraving remains crisp and legible.
• Caseback Wax: Original blue Omega factory sealing lacquer present and intact, a rare and highly desirable feature.
• Crystal: Hesalite with light surface marks consistent with careful use.
• Movement: Calibre 861 manual-wind chronograph functioning correctly and operating as expected.

Why the Blue Wax Matters

The blue material visible on the caseback is original Omega factory sealing lacquer. Its presence strongly suggests:
• Limited caseback openings
• No aggressive polishing
• Careful long-term ownership

On NASA-engraved Speedmasters, surviving factory lacquer is increasingly rare and is often highlighted by collectors and auction houses as a positive originality marker. Removing it would reduce collector value.

Historical Significance

The Ref. 145.022 is one of the most important Speedmaster references ever produced. It carried forward the exact design and functional qualities that earned NASA’s trust, making it the only watch flight-qualified for all manned space missions. Examples that retain subtle factory details like sealing lacquer sit at the top end of vintage Speedmaster collectibility, offering not just history, but integrity.