A symbol of peace: the Speedmaster ‘Apollo-Soyuz’

The end of the year is traditionally a time to look back. When we do so in 2025, we will unfortunately not be able to ignore the visible increase in geopolitical tensions and the division between the 'Western world' and 'the East'. Not a very cheerful message with Christmas just around the corner, a time that is supposed to be all about peace on earth. That is why, in this blog, we are focusing on a watch that symbolizes peace and brotherhood between the East and the West: the Omega Speedmaster Apollo–Soyuz 35th Anniversary (ref. 311.30.42.30.99.001). A story that is perhaps more relevant today than ever before.

The handshake above the earth

On July 17, 1975, a moment took place that literally transcended world politics: an American Apollo capsule and a Soviet Soyuz spacecraft docked with each other in orbit around the Earth. Commanders Thomas Stafford and Alexei Leonov shook hands 222 kilometers above a planet that was deeply divided by the Cold War at the time.
It is seen by many as the end of the space age, a period in history when the United States and the Soviet Union tried to outdo each other in their space ambitions. Among other things, this led to the first human spacewalk on March 18, 1965. His name has already been mentioned above: Alexei Leonov.

More than a decade after Leonov's achievement, he led the Soviet part of the Apollo–Soyuz mission, which symbolized the end of the rivalry between the two superpowers. They did not try to outdo each other, but worked together for the first time in space—a domain that is, by definition, transnational. It was a sign of fraternization and cooperation, symbolizing the end of the Cold War.

The Speedmaster was there

During that mission, the American astronauts wore the Omega Speedmaster Professional (moonwatch)—the same watch that NASA had certified for manned spaceflight since 1965 and which was also the first watch worn on the moon. The Speedmaster was the best watch that met the space agency's strict requirements. Easy to read, reliable, and a chronograph for precision timing.

The 35th Anniversary Edition

Omega commemorated the Apollo-Soyuz mission by releasing a limited edition of 1975 pieces, referring to the year of the successful mission. And not only the limited edition, but also the dial is a clear reference. It is made of the ultimate space material: meteorite! This natural product makes each dial unique in terms of color and pattern. The bright red Speedmaster text provides a nice contrast. The case back features a deeply engraved emblem depicting the docking of the space probes and is one of the most detailed case engravings we have seen on a watch.

A piece of history on your wrist

The Omega Speedmaster Apollo–Soyuz 35th Anniversary is therefore literally a piece of history on your wrist. The meteorite from which the dial is made is many thousands of years old. But figuratively speaking, this watch also symbolizes a rich history and the beautiful message of cooperation, brotherhood, and bridging differences. A message that is perhaps more relevant today than ever before.
Would you also like a piece of world history on your wrist, or are you simply in love with that meteorite dial? Find the watch here!