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1969 Omega Speedmaster - Brown Tropical Dial

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This is what came immediately after history

1969 is not just a production year for the Speedmaster. It is the year the Moonwatch became the Moonwatch. This reference sits right at that inflection point. Produced in the same year as the Apollo 11 landing, the 145.022 represents the first wave of Speedmasters made in the immediate aftermath of that success.

Omega did not redesign the watch to celebrate it. They kept building it the same way that stood the ultimate test of reliability. 

Why this configuration matters

The 145.022 carried the Speedmaster forward after its defining moment. Same 42mm case, same manual wind layout, same purpose built design. These were the watches leaving the factory while the Speedmaster name was becoming permanently tied to space exploration.

This example shows that passage of time clearly. The dial has shifted from black to a chocolate brown patina that only comes from decades of exposure and use. It is even, warm, and unmistakably natural. For collectors, that combination matters. A historically important reference that also wears its age honestly.

What you need to know before wearing it

The case is in good condition and appears to have been polished. The dial shows a strong chocolate brown patina and remains intact. The bracelet is steel and fitted with a service original Omega buckle. The watch is running well with strong amplitude and low beat error after passing by our test bench. 

Why this watch still holds weight

It works for someone who values historical placement and character over sharp edges. A real 1969 Speedmaster from the year everything clicked, carrying both the design and the evidence of time forward together.

Every watch we offer has been authenticated and mechanically looked over to ensure immediate usability.

Bracelet extension, cutting, or sizing is available upon request through our professional in-house jewelers.

Key Specs

Reference: 145.022

Model: Speedmaster

Year: 1969

Movement: Manual wind

Case Size: 42mm

Bezel: Fixed

Bracelet: Stainless steel

Dial: Black with chocolate brown patina

History

The Speedmaster debuted in 1957 as a chronograph for motorsport timing.  Designed by Claude Baillod, it featured a triple‑register dial, broad arrow hands and a tachymeter bezel—the first wristwatch to place a tachymeter scale on the outside of the crystal .  Its robust steel case and legible dial made it attractive to professionals beyond motor racing.  In the early 1960s NASA tested chronographs for space missions and subjected the Speedmaster to extreme conditions; it was the only watch to pass the Qualification Test Procedures .  As a result it was certified for all manned space flights and became standard equipment for astronauts.

The Speedmaster gained legendary status when it accompanied the Apollo 11 mission in 1969; Buzz Aldrin wore his Speedmaster on the lunar surface, making it the first watch worn on the Moon .  Omega later engraved “Flight Qualified by NASA” on the case back in tribute to this achievement.  The model has evolved over the years with changes in movement and design, yet the core elements—a manually wound chronograph with a tachymeter bezel—remain.  Collectors value early “pre‑Moon” references and those associated with specific space missions for their historical significance and tool‑watch aesthetics.

1969 Omega Speedmaster - Brown Tropical Dial
1969 Omega Speedmaster - Brown Tropical Dial Sale price$16,500.00 USD

What Our Clients Say About Us

Dan Young
4 months ago

I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)

Patrick Farella
5 months ago

Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.

Zee06
2 months ago

This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….

Mohammed Islam
4 months ago

Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!