OMEGA. A RARE STAINLESS STEEL MANUAL WIND CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH Model: Speedmaster Reference: 2998-2 Date: c. 1960s Movement: Cal. 321, 17-jewel manual wind, no. 17'761'410 Dial: Black Case: Tonneau form, screw down case back Strap/Bracelet: Stainless steel link Buckle/Clasp: Stainless steel folding clasp Signed: Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp Size: 39mm Accompaniments: None Footnotes: Among all pre-Moon Speedmaster references, the 2998 holds a particularly important place in the model's history. In 1962, astronaut Walter 'Wally' Schirra wore his personal Speedmaster 2998 during the Mercury-Atlas 8 mission, making it the first Omega worn in space, several years before NASA's official qualification of the Speedmaster. Powered by the legendary Caliber 321, the reference features Alpha hands and a black tachymeter bezel graduated to 1,000 units per hour, a configuration that remains among the most coveted of all early Speedmasters. As with the current lot, the highly desirable 'Lollipop' centre chronograph seconds hand is among the rarest and most sought-after configurations of the reference. In overall well preserved condition, this watch has a number of details prized by collectors, including the correct Type 4 dial with round 'O' of Omega signature, Type 1 small pushers measuring 4mm in diameter, a bracelet stamped with a third-quarter 1960 date code, and the Type C1 'Mercedes' crown. These distinct characteristics make the present example one of the most compelling opportunities for serious collectors of early Speedmasters. Please also refer to the book 'Moon Watch Only' by Grégoire Rossier and Anthony Marquié for any further classification. See other Speedmaster examples in lot 238 - 245. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing