Omega

18k, Cal. 861, copper-finished lever movement, glucydur balance, 17 jewels, gilt metal dust cover, gilt brushed dial, applied baton indexes, black hands, three engine-turned subsidiary dials indicating constant seconds, 30 minute and 2 hour registers, large tonneau-shaped water-resistant-type case with raised black bezel calibrated for tachometer, two round chronograph pushers in the band, downturned lugs, presentation inscription to the screw back, case, dial and movement signed, with an 18k gold Omega brick-link bracelet and deployant clasp.

The movement is running and chronograph and registers appear to function, however it should be serviced soon as that has probably not been done in awhile. The gilt dust cover is very clean. The dial shows almost no wear and is in nice condition. There appear to be some light spots on the dial and dirt, although these are not significant and seem to be cleanable. The case shows signs of wear and scuffs, particularly to the outside of the back. There is one scratch to the edge of the outside of the case (near the word 'Eisele'). The inside of the back is stamped with the reference number and further stamped D1693. There are a few watch maker scratched marks on the inside of the back. The family says that the bezel was replaced by Omega at some point, however it is the bezel that should have been on the watch originally. The bracelet is rather stretched and worn and appears to be missing some of the links. Still, it has a length of mm. The deployant clasp is stamped 1116/575
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Accompanied by flown Apollo VII beta patch, flown American flag and flown Apollo VII mission insignia medallion numbered 11.

The inscription to the case back reads: 'ASTRONAUT DON F. EISELE - to mark man's conquest of space with time, through time, on time - APOLLO 7, No. 22'. (sic)

The present watch is from a special edition of 28 examples that Omega made in 18k gold for the Apollo astronauts in recognition of their achievements in outer space. The present watch is number 22 from that special series. These pieces were presented to the astronauts at a gala reception in Houston, Texas, in October 1969, after the successes of the Apollo XI moon landing.

It is interesting to note that the inscription on the back of the watch misspells Eisele's name, dedicating it to 'Don F. Eisele' rather than the proper 'Donn F. Eisele'.

This model, Ref. 145.022, is the successor to the model worn on most of the early Apollo missions (including Apollo VII), Ref. 145.012. The main difference between the two models is the movement inside each, as after 1968, Cal. 321 was replaced by Cal. 861, which was seen as more durable and more accurate. From 1968 until the end of the Apollo program in 1972, this was the model (in stainless steel) worn by the astronauts in orbit.

Today, most Omega Speedmaster Professional Wristwatches are inscribed, 'The First Watch Worn on the Moon'.