1961 Omega Speedmaster 2998-61

Brand - Omega Watch Co.

Model - Speedmaster

Reference - 2998-61

Year - 1961 

Case materiel - Stainless steel, unpolished case

Diameter - 39mm

Accessories - Original date 7912 with number 6 endlinks. 

Stunning 1961 Omega Speedmaster 2998-61 (Serial 19583xxx)

A rare and exceptionally good all original Omega Speedmaster 2998-62. Amazing watch. One owner provenance.

This is a transitional sub reference between the 2998-61 and the later 2998-62 (T Swiss T - 105.002 - 105003 references with Swiss only dial, and alpha hands and transitional baton subdial hands. Later changing to T Swiss T on Ed white models onwards.

I have only owned one other of this particular reference and have never held one as complete in originality with correct, original small pushers, 24 foot original crown with early correct logo, original stepped dial and original lume (dies after a few seconds after UV exposure)nb: hairline crack in hour hand lume, consistant with overall originality. It has well preserved thick case. The sides have the factory brushing and not repolished on tops of the lugs either.

Case & Bezel 

Original and top condition DON bezel, only very light wearing marks but I would grade it excellent.

Thick even case showing visible chamfers and a crisp Hippocampus. Again only light wearing marks. More photos on request.

Movement

Movement correctly signed with correct shape assymetrical clutch bridge and serial range lines up correctly for this exact reference. 19583xxx end of 61 in to 62. The watch has been tested and timed is in superb running condition and the chronograph resets perfectly to zero.

Accessories

The watch comes on its original 7912 with 6 endlinks which is hard to locate in good shape, The bracelet looks unpolished and shows the brushed middle links and correct outer polished links. The inside clasp has 62/3 which fits in with the year it was sold/purchased.

Summary

A beautiful, rare and coveted Speedmaster with good provenance, original parts, even the early plexiglass (smaller logo) A true barn find watch given to son from original owner. The father purchased it in 1963 it is believed.

The market for good to excellent vintage Speedmasters has been extremely stable over the last few years and they are only getting harder to find in good original shape such as this one. When they come to market they are not always in the best condition, as these are primarily tool watches and fit for purpose. So one in this condition is rare.

It would look fantastic in any vintage watch collectors armoury. It is ready to go and running well. 

If you only own one Speedmaster...Make it count.