The first Omega Speedmaster to feature a display caseback was a commemorative model released in 1980 for the 10th anniversary of the Apollo 11 lunar landing. This was followed in 1985 by a steel commemorative model (Ref. ST 345.0808) for the German market. Omega introduced the decorated version of its manual-wind movement, the Calibre 863, in 1980. This movement was created specifically for use in the new display-back models, beginning with the 1980 Apollo 11 commemorative edition. The Calibre 863 featured a gilt (gold-toned) finish and "Côtes de Genève" (Geneva stripes) on the bridges. This was the predecessor to the rhodium-plated Calibre 1863, which is the movement used in the Reference 3873.50.31.
Founded in 1848 by Louis Brandt in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, the company that would become Omega established its identity with the 1894 introduction of the 19-ligne 'Omega' calibre. This movement was a landmark in industrial watchmaking, utilizing interchangeable components to streamline production and repair—a philosophy of accessible precision that continues to define the brand.
Omega cemented its reputation for robust accuracy through its role as the Official Timekeeper for the Olympic Games since 1932 and, most famously, through the Speedmaster Professional's flight qualification by NASA, which culminated in its journey to the Moon.
In the modern era, the brand's most significant contribution has been the industrialization of the co-axial escapement, an invention by Dr. George Daniels that fundamentally reduces friction within the calibre for superior long-term chronometric stability. Typified by purpose-driven design, Omega's collections—from the abyssal-depth Seamaster to the iconic Speedmaster—are archetypes of the professional tool watch, balancing legible aesthetics with advanced material science and anti-magnetic properties through its Master Chronometer certification.
Overall Grade: 8.5 / 10 | Great Condition, Light Visible Wear Production: est. 2015 Contents: Watch Only Genre: Sports Chronograph
Size: 42mm Thickness: 13.45mm Lug Width: 20mm
Case: Stainless steel, asymmetrical case, brushed and mirrored facets, light wear Bezel: Stainless steel, fixed, black aluminum tachymeter insert, light wear Dial: Black matte dial, printed markers, three recessed sub-dials Hands: White pencil hands, white chronograph hand
Crown: Stainless steel, push-pull crown, signed, light wear Crystal: Domed sapphire crystal, light wear Bracelet: Black leather strap, light wear Caseback: Stainless steel screw caseback, transparent sapphire window, light wear Movement: Manual Wind Chronograph Caliber: 1863