1967 Omega Speedmaster Ref. 105.012-65 Full Set

The Speedmaster Reference 105.012 marks a particularly important stage in the Speedmaster history:

 

When production of the ST 105.002 model came to an end in 1964, its family line split into two branches:

 

• ST 105.003, heirs of the ST 105.002
• ST 105.012 (the Professional branch) with a new shape of case designed to protect the pushers and crown from snagging.

 

This model is thus the first of a line of Speedmaster Professionals, the descendants of which are still being manufactured in 2017.

 

What also makes this reference interesting is its close historical relation with the landing on the moon and the conquest of space; NASA’s resistance tests to select a chronograph for its astronauts were carried out on the ST 105.003 (NASA reference 6049 according to the designation used in the USA), which was to be part of the official gear of the Gemini astronauts. The ST 105.012, on the other hand (NASA reference 6126) was chosen for the Apollo missions without the need for new tests.

 

4 sub-references have been produced between 1964 and 1968: 105.012-63, 105.012-64, 105.012-65 and 105.012-66. Production of all the versions is estimated at between 24,000 and 24,500 units. The least common sub-reference is 105.012-63, of which probably fewer than 2,000 were made. During its first year of production, this reference was fitted with Professional dials without the T countermarks flanking SWISS MADE, and then with the countermarks (close or spaced Ts). There are also dials with the Ts asymmetrically printed on subsequently. The ST 105.012 was a styling success with its short and wide pushers set well into the caseband. The caseback of the ST 105.012 has a double bevel until case reference 105.012-65, and thereafter a single bevel.

This example here is in full original condition. The dial remains in great shape with no stains or blemishes. The tritium hour markers are aged to that tone of this reference, same as that on the hands. The hands present a very particular patina that has turned the white paint beige adding so much character to this piece.

 

The original DON (Dot Over Ninety) bezel is in good shape too showing some minor marks.

 

The stainless-steel case remains in thick and sharp. The case back is also in good condition with some marks.

 

The cal. 321 is running great as it has just been fully serviced in July 2021 as can be seen in the service invoice included.

 

It is presented as a complete set, including inner box, guarantee papers, and Omega Extract of the Archives proving provenance.

 

It is suited on the original 20mm Omega Stainless steel flat-links 1506 bracelet date stamped 4/66.

 

Indeed, a historic watch not to be missed.