seamaster snoopy | omega silver snoopy 45th anniversary

While the title may initially suggest a Seamaster collaboration, the true focus of this article is the highly sought-after and celebrated Speedmaster Snoopy, a watch that has captured the hearts of collectors and watch enthusiasts worldwide. This isn't about a James Bond-esque dive watch; it's about Omega's enduring tribute to NASA's Silver Snoopy Award, a recognition given to individuals and organizations that contribute significantly to the success of human spaceflight missions. We'll explore the history, design, variations, and the often-complex world of acquiring one of these coveted timepieces, focusing on the Speedmaster models.

The Speedmaster Snoopy isn't just a watch; it's a story. It’s a symbol of achievement, resilience, and a touch of playful whimsy in the often-serious world of horology. Its popularity stems from a unique blend of factors: the historical significance of the Speedmaster's association with NASA, the universally loved character of Snoopy, and Omega's consistently high standards of craftsmanship.

The Roots of the Snoopy Award: A Lifesaver and a Symbol

To truly understand the Speedmaster Snoopy, we need to rewind to the Apollo 13 mission in 1970. Faced with a catastrophic explosion in space, the crew relied heavily on their Speedmaster watches to time a crucial 14-second engine burn, a maneuver essential for a safe return to Earth. This precise timing, orchestrated under immense pressure, played a pivotal role in averting disaster.

In recognition of Omega's contribution to the success of Apollo 13, NASA presented the company with the Silver Snoopy Award in 1970. This prestigious award, represented by a sterling silver Snoopy lapel pin flown in space, is given personally by astronauts and serves as a symbol of recognition for outstanding achievements related to human flight safety or mission success. The choice of Snoopy as the award's mascot was deliberate. He's seen as a "watchdog" over the mission, representing vigilance and attention to detail.

The Legacy Begins: The Omega Silver Snoopy 45th Anniversary (2015)

While not the first Snoopy-themed watch from Omega (that honor belongs to a limited edition for the Italian market), the Omega Silver Snoopy 45th Anniversary released in 2015 marked the true beginning of the modern Speedmaster Snoopy phenomenon. This watch instantly captivated collectors with its striking design and clever integration of the Snoopy theme.

* Design and Features: The 45th Anniversary model featured a white dial with black subdials and a comic strip Snoopy lying on his doghouse at the 9 o'clock subdial. The dial also sported the famous phrase "Failure is not an option," a line from the movie Apollo 13, inscribed above the central hands. The caseback was equally impressive, showcasing a sterling silver Snoopy medallion set against a dark blue enamel background. The watch was powered by Omega's manual-winding caliber 1861, a workhorse movement known for its reliability and accuracy.

* Limited Edition and Rising Value: The 45th Anniversary was limited to 1,970 pieces, a nod to the year Omega received the Silver Snoopy Award. This limited production, combined with the watch's compelling design and historical significance, quickly led to skyrocketing prices on the secondary market. Its current value far exceeds its original retail price, making it a highly desirable collector's item.

The Pinnacle of the Snoopy Series: The Omega Speedmaster Snoopy 50th Anniversary (2020)

Five years later, in 2020, Omega unveiled the Omega Speedmaster Snoopy 50th Anniversary, celebrating the half-century mark since receiving the prestigious award. This model raised the bar even higher, incorporating innovative features and a more refined aesthetic.seamaster snoopy

* Design and Features: The 50th Anniversary Snoopy features a silver dial with blue subdials and a blue ceramic bezel. Snoopy, again lying on his doghouse, resides at the 9 o'clock subdial, but this time, he's embossed in silver and partially visible. The real magic, however, lies in the caseback.

* The Animated Caseback: The caseback features a mesmerizing animated Snoopy in his Command and Service Module (CSM) orbiting the moon. When the chronograph is activated, Snoopy takes a trip around the caseback, a playful and visually stunning tribute to the Apollo 13 mission. The Earth disc rotates in sync with the running seconds, adding another layer of depth and visual interest.

* "Eyes on the Stars": The caseback also includes the phrase "Eyes on the Stars," a subtle and evocative reminder of the spirit of exploration and discovery that defines the Apollo program.