Omega has resurrected its beloved “First Omega in Space” (FOiS) chronograph after a four-year hiatus, breathing new life into this historically significant timepiece with thoughtful updates that honor its space-faring legacy.
The original FOiS model, introduced in 2012, commemorated the CK2998 Speedmaster worn by NASA astronaut Walter “Wally” Schirra during his Mercury-Atlas 8 mission aboard Sigma 7 in 1962—notably, his personal watch purchased years before the Speedmaster became NASA’s officially qualified chronograph.
New and Old
The new iteration maintains the distinctive DNA of the CK2998, characterized by its symmetrical case with straight lugs, Alpha hands, and black bezel—design elements that eventually evolved into the Speedmaster’s iconic aesthetic.
However, Omega has introduced a stunning CVD-coated blue-grey dial that replicates a rare color variant found on some 1960s CK2998 models. This sophisticated hue has already generated significant buzz among collectors who glimpsed vintage examples on social media.
The modern FOiS features the step dial design that was reintroduced with the 2012 model, complete with period-correct logos and markings. Enhancing its vintage appeal, Omega has applied a creamy, aged-looking luminous material to the hands and hour markers—a warmer tone compared to the previous FOiS release.
Measuring 39.7mm in diameter and 13.4mm thick with a comfortable 48mm lug-to-lug span, the stainless steel case strikes an ideal balance between historical accuracy and contemporary wearability.
Omega’s Speedmaster Heritage
While the watch employs a sapphire crystal, it’s specifically shaped to evoke the appearance of the original Hesalite crystal. The aluminum bezel insert features the historically accurate Dot-Over-Ninety (DON) configuration, further cementing its connection to Speedmaster heritage.
Beneath the commemorative caseback, which bears the inscriptions “The First Omega In Space” and “October 3, 1962,” lies Omega’s exceptional Caliber 3861. This Master Chronometer-certified movement features the Co-Axial escapement and delivers a 50-hour power reserve—the same modern powerhouse found in current Speedmaster Professional models.
The new FOiS is priced at $7,900 on its steel flat-link bracelet (which includes Omega’s convenient micro-adjust system), positioning it between the Hesalite Speedmaster Professional and the “Sapphire Sandwich” variant in Omega’s lineup. While not a limited edition, the watch’s historical significance and striking aesthetics suggest it will be in high demand during its initial release period.
With this revival, Omega has masterfully balanced historical authenticity with modern improvements, creating a chronograph that honors the Speedmaster’s space exploration legacy while meeting contemporary standards of performance and refinement—a fitting tribute to the watch that pioneered Omega’s journey among the stars.