The year is 1973. Disco is emerging, the oil crisis looms, and on wrists around the world, a certain timepiece was quietly making its mark on horological history: the Omega Speedmaster Professional. This wasn't just another watch; it was a testament to precision, durability, and a legacy forged in the fires of space exploration. Looking at the catalog from back in those days, the watch was marketed as having a deviation of a maximum of one second per month – a bold claim for the time, reflecting the high standards Omega held for its flagship chronograph. As a result, the 1973 Speedmaster Professional holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike, representing a pivotal moment in the watch's illustrious history. This article delves deep into the specifics of this particular vintage piece, exploring its specifications, price range, reviews, and its place within the broader context of Omega's Speedmaster lineage, particularly its connection to the 125th-anniversary celebrations and the specific reference number 176.002.
1973 Omega Speedmaster Specs: A Deep Dive into the Mechanics
The 1973 Omega Speedmaster Professional, often referenced as the 176.002, boasts a compelling blend of robust construction and refined mechanics. While the exact specifications may vary slightly based on production runs within the year, certain key features remain consistent. At its heart beats the legendary caliber 861, a manually wound chronograph movement known for its reliability and accuracy. This movement, a direct descendant of the caliber 321 used on the moon landings, is a marvel of mechanical engineering, showcasing Omega's commitment to precision. The claim of one second per month accuracy, while ambitious, reflects the high quality control and meticulous assembly processes employed during its production.
The case, typically crafted from stainless steel, measures approximately 42mm in diameter – a size that remains highly desirable today. The iconic tachymeter bezel, crucial for speed calculations, is usually made from aluminum, although some variations might exist. The dial, typically black, features the distinctive Speedmaster sub-dials, arranged in the classic tri-compax layout. The applied indices and baton hands, often filled with luminous material (likely tritium at the time), ensure excellent legibility in various lighting conditions. The caseback typically features the iconic Speedmaster emblem along with the reference number 176.002.
The bracelet, often a steel Omega bracelet with a specific reference, further contributes to the overall aesthetic and comfort of the watch. The bracelet design varied slightly throughout the year, so paying close attention to detail when examining a specific example is crucial for accurate identification and valuation.
1973 Omega Speedmaster Pro Price: A Collector's Market
The price of a 1973 Omega Speedmaster Professional varies considerably depending on its condition, originality, and accompanying documentation. Finding an example in pristine, unpolished condition with its original box and papers is exceptionally rare and commands a premium price. These highly sought-after pieces can fetch tens of thousands of dollars, reflecting their historical significance and desirability amongst collectors.
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