2915-2, Speedmaster, Steel

The 2915 is not just the start of the Speedmaster, it’s one of the most significant references ever made. It changed the fate of Omega and mankind alike. This is where the Speedmaster began, not aimed toward space but simply at being an excellent chronograph for racing drivers. In that aim, this was the very first chronograph to place its tachymetre outside the dial on an external bezel. The Daytona referenced this a few years later. The design was entirely purposeful, from the sturdy straight lug case to the highly legible dial with its broad arrow handset and practical 321. The 2915 began by simply trying to accomplish its given task excellently.    

The 2915 was in production from 1957 until 59. In these two years, significantly fewer example were made than, say, Paul Newmans. They are rarer than most collectors realize. The 2915 evolved quickly over three iterations within those two years. This 2915-2 retains its magnficient steel base 1000 bezel, which is one of the trickiest areas of this reference to find original. In addition, its dial sports a wider oval-shaped O in Omega and a long tail to the r of Speedmaster. Where the -3 introduced some transitional elements, the 2915-1 and 2915-2 are markedly similar. 

 The 2915 dial is stark and intentional. The radium plots are highly textured and verging on deep orange ageing. Subdial hands of the 2915-2 are alpha shaped, contrasting the broad arrow handset. Its case was massive at the time, 38.5mm with straight lugs that Omega have referenced in many watches since. The 321 was simply the most capable and reliable calibre available at the time, which was all that was required. As it turns out, NASA agreed a few years later. There is a seriousness about the 2915 which is hugely attractive all these years later. 

 This is the end to all Omega collecting for a reason. It is the foundation on which modern Omega has been built. Prior to the Speedmaster, chronographs comprised the tiniest percentage of watch sales. What this watch went on to accomplish changed that for every brand, including Rolex. Omega advertised the 2915 in period as the watch, ‘For men who reckon time in seconds’. It was the most successful tool of its time for those who needed it. Today, it is still the most beautiful and focused tool from its time, made better by the years elapsed since. It is a visual delight, immensely significant, and arguably not ever bettered since. 

This 2915-2 presents in fantastic vintage condition. The case is remarkably full and likely not ever polished. The bezel, importantly, is original to the watch and correct. There is a small ding at 10 which lends character but also speaks to the unrestored attitude of this watch in total. The dial is original radium and absolutely lovely, aged to a deep orange tone over time. Despite that, all printed text is clear, original and lovely. Its calibre 321 is running well in specification including all chronograph functions. The watch comes on an original 7077/6, with an Extract of Archive.

This example is modelled on an average-sized 7-inch wrist.