Dubai, UAE | July 23, 2025 — As the world celebrates the 56th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing, OMEGA is proudly reflecting on its legacy in one of humankind’s greatest achievements. With the iconic Speedmaster on the wrists of astronauts, OMEGA became more than just a watchmaker—it became a part of history.
The First Steps, Timed to Perfection
On July 21st, 1969, at exactly 02:56 UTC, Neil Armstrong became the first human to set foot on the Moon. Moments later, Buzz Aldrin followed, wearing an OMEGA Speedmaster on his wrist. Their lunar excursion lasted just 2 hours and 36 minutes, but the impact was eternal. The images of Aldrin walking the Moon, the Speedmaster clearly visible on his wrist, are etched into the global consciousness as symbols of precision, courage, and exploration.
OMEGA’s partnership with NASA during the Apollo 11 mission is one of the most revered collaborations in horological and aerospace history. It wasn’t just a watch on the Moon—it was a tool of survival, a trusted companion in an environment where every second counted.
60 Years of Endurance: NASA’s Endorsement of the Speedmaster
While the Moon landing may be the most celebrated chapter in OMEGA’s space story, 2025 also marks another milestone: 60 years since the Speedmaster was officially qualified by NASA for all manned space missions.
On March 1st, 1965, after undergoing rigorous testing under the direction of NASA’s Flight Crew Operations Director, Deke Slayton, the Speedmaster triumphed over competing chronographs. From extreme temperatures and powerful shocks to violent vibrations and total vacuum exposure, the Speedmaster withstood every challenge—emerging as the only watch fit for space.
This rigorous process was no mere formality—it was a mission-critical requirement. The Speedmaster’s endurance secured its place on the wrists of astronauts in the Mercury and Gemini programs and eventually, on the Moon.
A Legacy Watched by the World
The world watched in awe in 1969 as 600 million people tuned into the live broadcast of the Apollo 11 Moon landing. The Speedmaster, visible on Aldrin’s wrist, became a symbol of precision and trust in the harshest of environments. It wasn’t just a watch—it was a testament to human ingenuity and resilience.
Decades later, those black-and-white images still inspire. And OMEGA’s commitment to space exploration has never waned. The brand continues to accompany astronauts on modern missions, staying true to its heritage while looking ahead to the future of deep-space travel.
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Looking Forward, Rooted in Legacy
OMEGA’s connection to space isn’t simply a story of the past—it’s a vision for the future. As private and public space programs expand their frontiers, the brand remains a symbol of dependability, craftsmanship, and innovation.
From the Moon to Mars and beyond, OMEGA’s legacy is one of timekeeping excellence in the face of the extraordinary. And as the world dreams of new celestial horizons, one thing remains clear: when the next giant leap comes, the Speedmaster will be there—timing history as it unfolds.
“First watch on the Moon. Forever the symbol of adventure.” OMEGA Speedmaster – Worn by legends. Engineered for space.
Editor-in-Chief of Dubai Magazine, and a columnist for Entrepreneur, Middle East Magazine, CEO Magazine, and The Hollywood Magazine. Known for building one of the fastest-growing media networks spotlighting influential voices across business, fashion, and culture. Passionate about telling stories that matter and creating platforms that elevate global talent.
