The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch is an icon. Its robust design, proven reliability, and historical significance as the watch worn on the moon have cemented its place in horological history. Within the already impressive Speedmaster family, the Alaska Project stands out, a unique and compelling variation that deserves its own detailed examination. This article will delve into the fascinating story of the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Alaska Project, exploring its features, history, variations, and current market value, touching upon search terms like "Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch lowest price," "Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch for sale," "Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch 2021," "Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch prix," "2020 Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch," "Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch bezel," "Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch price," and "Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch new price."
The Genesis of the Alaska Project: A Watch Born of Necessity
The story of the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Alaska Project begins in the 1970s, a period of intense exploration and technological advancement. NASA, ever pushing the boundaries of space travel, recognized a need for a watch capable of withstanding the extreme conditions of spacewalks during the Skylab program. The existing Speedmaster Professional, while already incredibly durable, wasn't considered entirely suitable for the demanding environment of extravehicular activity (EVA) in the harsh conditions of space. The concern centered around the potential for extreme temperature fluctuations to affect the watch's performance and reliability.
NASA's solution was to commission a modified Speedmaster, leading to the creation of what would become known as the "Alaska Project" or sometimes the "NASA 1972" model. The name "Alaska Project" is derived from the internal NASA designation for the project, though it's not an official Omega designation. The modifications were focused on enhancing the watch's thermal protection and overall robustness for use in the unforgiving conditions of space.
Key Features and Modifications of the Alaska Project Speedmaster
The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Alaska Project features several key differences from the standard Speedmaster Professional. These modifications, born from the rigorous demands of NASA, significantly enhance its resilience and functionality:
* The Outer Case: The most striking feature is the addition of a distinctive outer case made of orange-colored anodized aluminum. This case acted as a thermal barrier, protecting the watch from extreme temperature swings. The bright orange color was chosen for high visibility in the dimly lit conditions of space.
* The Inner Case: The inner case, containing the actual Speedmaster movement, is typically a standard stainless steel case. This dual-case system offered a robust level of protection.
* The Strap: The Alaska Project watches were typically fitted with a Velcro strap, a practical choice for easy on and off during spacewalks, offering a secure fit without the complexities of a traditional buckle.
* The Crystal: The crystal was usually a standard Hesalite crystal, known for its shock resistance and relative resistance to extreme temperatures. While some variations may exist, this remained a common feature.
* The Movement: The movement inside the Alaska Project was typically the same caliber 321 or 861 movement found in other Speedmaster Professional models of the era. The focus was on protective modifications rather than alterations to the core timekeeping mechanism.
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