CIRCA: 1976
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless steel
CASE DIAMETER: 42 mm.
BRACELET MATERIAL: Stainless steel
BRACELET SIZE: Approx. 195 mm. overall length
DIAL: Black
MOVEMENT: Manual
FUNCTIONS: Chronograph
BOX: No
PAPERS: No
REMARK: Limited edition of 500 pieces, made for the Italian market

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Lot Essay

In the tense era of the Cold War in the 1970s between the powers of the Western Bloc (led by the United States and its NATO allies) and those of the Eastern Bloc (headed by the Soviet Union and its Warsaw Pact partners), NASA launched the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project, an incredible attempt to bridge the gap between the two superpowers. During one of the most controversial eras of the 20th century, this historic mission achieved a symbolic milestone in international cooperation in July 1975 when it successfully docked an American Apollo spacecraft with a Soviet Soyuz spacecraft in orbit.

A limited edition of 500 Speedmaster watches, each identified by the distinctive Apollo-Soyuz mission emblem on the dial, were released in 1976 by Omega's exclusive Italian distributor, De Marchi, in honor of the historic event. With 500 pieces intended solely for the Italian market, this was Omega's first-ever limited edition stainless steel watch. The encircled letter "I," which stands for Italy, is displayed on the caseback of every watch. This is followed by the watch's individual production number and the Omega logo.

With its unique Apollo-Soyuz emblem in place of the conventional "Speedmaster" inscription at 12 o'clock, the present watch distinguishes itself from other Speedmasters. The large 5.5 mm chronograph pushers, which give the watch a bolder, more tactile presence, further contribute to its distinctive identity. The original 1168 "Oyster-style" bracelet, which is thought to have been fitted to only a small number of Omega models from the 1970s, completes this historically significant edition and makes this reference one of the most sought-after and collectible Speedmasters ever made.

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Condition report

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The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

Movement: The movement is ticking at the time of cataloguing; however, a service is recommended. Christie’s does not guarantee the future working of the movement. The chronograph function does not work, the start pusher is stuck.
Dial: Nice. Reacts to UV light. Hands with scratches and spots visible on the lume. Signs of ageing on the dial.
Case and bracelet: Many scratches and dents throughout. Signs of previous polishing. Case has corrosion and rust throughout. Caseback with serial number lisible. Logo engraved on the clasp, probably the Italian Retailer's logo. Glass is scratched. Bezel with dents and scratches throughout. The caseback can't be opened. Endlink code 633, clasp code 1168
We would recommend a full service by Omega.

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The condition of lots sold in our auctions can vary widely due to factors such as age, previous damage, restoration, repair and wear and tear. Their nature means that they will rarely be in perfect condition. Lots are sold "as is," in the condition they are in at the time of the sale, without any representation or warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to condition by Christie's or by the seller.
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