The reference 145.022-69. Often overlooked for losing the 321 calibre… but if you care about looks, this is easily one of the best value Speedmasters out there. This is the reference I keep coming back to, unless you somehow land a 321 for the same money.
This is the first Speedmaster that truly transitioned to the Omega Calibre 861. The earlier references used the legendary Omega Calibre 321. A more traditional old-school column wheel movement. But by the late ‘60s, production had to scale. Watches weren’t just tools anymore; they became visible in media, worn by icons. Demand exploded.
And the Speedmaster? It sat right at the center of that shift.
Originally built as a racing chronograph, it gained something much bigger: its role in NASA’s missions during the space race. The whole “Moonwatch” story is to this day the biggest seller for Omega.
Now, what makes the -69 so interesting…
It still carries that classic stepped dial, full of depth and character. Yes, it lost the applied (3D) Omega logo compared to earlier models, but the dial hasn’t gone flat yet like later executions. You still get that layered vintage feel. And that’s where this reference really shines.
This example shows honest use. Sharp lines are still there, the case has kept its definition, and the bezel is in strong condition. The dial is crisp and depending on the light, it even leans into a subtle brown hue.
The only real “flaw”? The caseback has lost its hippocampus engraving—most likely the result of removing an engraving (or a very hairy wrist rubbing it off). But honestly, it tells the story of the watch more than it takes away from it.
A proper Speedmaster. Worn, honest, and still one of the best-looking references you can get without going full 321.
————
Brand: Omega
Model: Speedmaster
Reference: 145.022-69
Year: 197x
Material: Stainless Steel
Dimensions: 42mm (without crown)
Crystal: Acrylic
Caliber: Omega cal. 861
Bracelet/Strap: Leather period correct strap
The reference 145.022-69. Often overlooked for losing the 321 calibre… but if you care about looks, this is easily one of the best value Speedmasters out there. This is the reference I keep coming back to, unless you somehow land a 321 for the same money.
This is the first Speedmaster that truly transitioned to the Omega Calibre 861. The earlier references used the legendary Omega Calibre 321. A more traditional old-school column wheel movement. But by the late ‘60s, production had to scale. Watches weren’t just tools anymore; they became visible in media, worn by icons. Demand exploded.
And the Speedmaster? It sat right at the center of that shift.
Originally built as a racing chronograph, it gained something much bigger: its role in NASA’s missions during the space race. The whole “Moonwatch” story is to this day the biggest seller for Omega.
Now, what makes the -69 so interesting…
It still carries that classic stepped dial, full of depth and character. Yes, it lost the applied (3D) Omega logo compared to earlier models, but the dial hasn’t gone flat yet like later executions. You still get that layered vintage feel. And that’s where this reference really shines.
This example shows honest use. Sharp lines are still there, the case has kept its definition, and the bezel is in strong condition. The dial is crisp and depending on the light, it even leans into a subtle brown hue.
The only real “flaw”? The caseback has lost its hippocampus engraving—most likely the result of removing an engraving (or a very hairy wrist rubbing it off). But honestly, it tells the story of the watch more than it takes away from it.
A proper Speedmaster. Worn, honest, and still one of the best-looking references you can get without going full 321.
————
Brand: Omega
Model: Speedmaster
Reference: 145.022-69
Year: 197x
Material: Stainless Steel
Dimensions: 42mm (without crown)
Crystal: Acrylic
Caliber: Omega cal. 861
Bracelet/Strap: Leather period correct strap
