Just a few weeks ago, Christie’s Auction House in New York held its “Omega Speedmaster 50” sale, a compendium of 50 lots celebrating the illustrious history of the Omega Speedmaster. All lots sold for a combined $1.3 million. John Reardon, Christie’s international head of watches, told The New York Times the auction house would be seeking more and more themed watch auctions like the Speedmaster 50 collection as desire for vintage watches and the scholarship associated with them continues to grow.
With under 24 hours left there’s still time to bid on rarities (many currently going for under $2,000) like a Speedmaster worn by a Russian cosmonaut or a Constellation gifted to the ruler of Bahrain.He wasn’t kidding: Christie’s “Rare Omega Watches” auction opened on January 28. There’s plenty to choose from among its 26 lots, but these seven are some of our favorites.
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Speedmaster X-33
Worn by Russian cosmonaut Sergei Zalyotin, this Speedmaster X-33 has been put to use in both the Mir Space Station and International Space Station. It’s expected to fetch upward of $10,000.
Bid Now: Here
“Anakin Skywalker” Seamaster Chronograph
Built in an era when watch manufacturers experimented with bright-colored dials and outlandish case designs, the “Anakin Skywalker” is a rare ’70s chronograph that gets its name from its sci-fi looks.
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“The Constellation of Bahrain”
This late-’50s Constellation is said by the watch’s consigner to have been presented as a gift to His Highness Sheikh Sir Salman II bin Hamad al-Khalifa, Ruler of Bahrain, KCMG, KCIE, KStJ.
Bid Now: Here
Speedmaster Professional Gold-Plated Mark II
This Speedmaster chronograph plated in 18k gold is one of the few variations of the Mark II produced in the late ’60s and early ’70s. It’s a strong argument for plated gold, divisive among the watch community.
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Seamaster 200 ‘Banana’
Another of Omega’s brightly-colored Seamasters from the ’70s, the Seamaster 200 “Banana” gets its name from its yellow dial, meant to increase visibility for divers swimming at low depths.
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Genéve Dynamic
Omega’s oblong Dynamic model debuted in 1968 and continued production until 1997, so they aren’t an incredibly rare sight. But this 1980 version is damn near perfect, including its original Corfam strap and the original protective film on the case back.
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Speedmaster Professional “Tropical” Mark II
Speedmaster Mark II’s produced around 1969 used paint more susceptible to turning brown in the sun — and this is a prime example.
Bid Now: Here
