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Omega Speedmaster FOiS: What “First OMEGA in Space” Means

The Speedmaster FOiS recalls the CK 2998 worn on Sigma 7 in 1962. Here are its modern specifications, design details and launch-era strap options.
Estimate3–4 min Catalogued SpecialistWatchRanker Team
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The Omega Speedmaster FOiS is a modern, heritage-styled Speedmaster inspired by the CK 2998 that astronaut Wally Schirra wore during the 1962 Sigma 7 mission. The current model is not Schirra’s original watch: it pairs vintage design cues with a hand-wound Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861. Its 39.7 mm case, grey-blue dial and choice of leather straps or steel bracelet give buyers a distinct alternative to the Moonwatch’s later spaceflight story.

Why is it called “First OMEGA in Space”?

OMEGA says the CK 2998, released in 1959 as the second Speedmaster generation, earned the nickname after astronaut Walter “Wally” Schirra wore his own watch on the Sigma 7 mission, which launched on 3 October 1962. The name refers to the first OMEGA worn in space—not to a watch worn on the Moon. OMEGA’s 2024 announcement traces the present model to that CK 2998 history.

The distinction matters because the FOiS and the Moonwatch mark different chapters. OMEGA’s space-history page says the Speedmaster’s legacy was ensured when it became the first watch worn on the Moon on 21 July 1969. That later association is not the story behind the FOiS nickname.

What is distinctive about the current FOiS?

The current FOiS is a contemporary heritage model, not Schirra’s original 1959 CK 2998. OMEGA’s launch description combines period-inspired styling with modern materials and Calibre 3861. The steel case is described as symmetrical, with polished and brushed surfaces; a black aluminium bezel ring carries the tachymeter scale and “Dot Over Ninety” detail. The grey-blue dial, vintage logos and Alpha-style hour and minute hands with vintage Super-LumiNova complete the retro look.

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#1 Best Overall
Omega Men's 326.30.40.50.01.002 Speed Master Racing Analog Display Swiss Automatic Silver Watch
  • Stainless steel case
  • Black dial
  • Swiss-automatic movement
  • Case diameter: 40mm
  • Water resistant to 330 feet

The crystal is sapphire, shaped to evoke the look of Hesalite. That is a design reference: the crystal itself is sapphire, not Hesalite. The caseback carries a Seahorse medallion and the engravings “SPEEDMASTER,” “THE FIRST OMEGA IN SPACE” and “OCTOBER 3, 1962.”

FOiS specifications for reference 310.30.40.50.06.001

OMEGA’s official manual documents the steel-bracelet reference as follows. The figures are manufacturer specifications, not independent test results. OMEGA’s user-manual library provides the official manual.

Specification Reference 310.30.40.50.06.001
Case diameter 39.7 mm
Case and bracelet Stainless steel
Movement Hand-wound Calibre 3861
Power reserve 50 hours
Water resistance 5 bar (50 m / 165 ft)
Functions Hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph and tachymeter
Certification Master Chronometer

FOiS versus the Moonwatch: what should you compare?

They share Speedmaster heritage, but the FOiS identity is tied to the CK 2998 and Sigma 7, while “Moonwatch” refers to the Speedmaster’s later lunar legacy. Beyond that historical distinction, compare the watches by the details that affect your choice rather than assuming one is universally better.

  • Wrist fit: The documented FOiS case diameter is 39.7 mm. Diameter alone does not establish how a watch will sit on your wrist, so consider the case shape and try the exact configuration if possible.
  • Design: The FOiS has a grey-blue dial, black aluminium tachymeter bezel and sapphire crystal with a Hesalite-like profile. Decide whether those vintage cues appeal more than the appearance of the particular Moonwatch you are considering.
  • Operation: The FOiS is manually wound and includes a chronograph. Consider whether you enjoy winding a watch and expect to use the stopwatch function.
  • Ownership: Review the servicing requirements and support for the exact watch you are considering. The available OMEGA specifications do not establish a comparative service schedule or ownership-cost advantage between FOiS and Moonwatch models.
  • Configuration: Compare the exact reference and strap or bracelet, not just the FOiS or Moonwatch name; fit and appearance can change with the configuration.
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Which FOiS strap or bracelet should you choose?

At launch, OMEGA described three configurations: black leather with a buckle, brown leather with a buckle, and a steel bracelet with flat links and a patented comfort-release adjustment system. Choose based on the feel and look you prefer; the launch description does not establish present-day stock in every region.

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Rank #3
Omega Speedmaster Chronograph Automatic 38 mm Watch 324.30.38.50.03.001
  • Omega Speedmaster Chronograph Automatic 38 mm Watch 324.30.38.50.03.001
  • Black leather: A restrained, classic look that keeps attention on the dial.
  • Brown leather: A warmer pairing for the grey-blue dial and vintage styling.
  • Steel bracelet: A matching steel option with flat links and the described comfort-release adjustment.

Check the exact reference and local availability with OMEGA or an authorized retailer before buying. The documented bracelet reference is 310.30.40.50.06.001; the specifications above should not automatically be applied to every strap configuration.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 1
Omega Men's 326.30.40.50.01.002 Speed Master Racing Analog Display Swiss Automatic Silver Watch
Omega Men's 326.30.40.50.01.002 Speed Master Racing Analog Display Swiss Automatic Silver Watch
Stainless steel case; Black dial; Swiss-automatic movement; Case diameter: 40mm; Water resistant to 330 feet
$4,230.00
Bestseller No. 3
Omega Speedmaster Chronograph Automatic 38 mm Watch 324.30.38.50.03.001
Omega Speedmaster Chronograph Automatic 38 mm Watch 324.30.38.50.03.001
Omega Speedmaster Chronograph Automatic 38 mm Watch 324.30.38.50.03.001

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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