In 2020, they also introduced a quite interesting edition of the Speedy that was a tribute to astronaut Wally Schirra and the watch that was strapped on his wrist, a Speedmaster CK2998. The watch is deeply attractive under lights, the range of finishes means the watch demonstrates a complexity that belies the design which, on paper at least appears simple. This re-edition of the First Omega in Space (nicknamed FOIS), a numbered (non-limited) edition, remains quite successful and it now comes in a more luxurious edition, with a very cool dial. Here is the Omega Speedmaster FOIS ‘First Omega in Space’ in Sedna Gold.
Apart from the material (the original Speedy is a proper tool watch that comes in steel), the case uses the straight-lugs shape (meaning that the horns are flat and that the pushers and crown are not protected, different from the classical Moonwatch with its lyre lugs) and the overall diameter is reduced to 39mm instead of 42mm. For the rest, the movement is identical (the good-old Calibre 1861) and the dial is almost similar. The hands are distinct on the Omega Speedmaster FOIS as well as they have become almost similar to the CK2998 – what collectors call the ‘Alpha hands’, made in steel, instead of the white-painted baton hands of the Moonwatch. Finally, the dial features the applied Omega logo (instead of being painted).
Omega Speedmaster FOIS has quite a lot of classical-inspired watches in their collection, like for example the one who sells the best replica Omega Seamaster 300 Master Co-Axial or the Omega Speedmaster 57 Co-Axial revisited with Broad Arrow Hands (a recall of the very first Speedmaster CK2915). What is the 2020 Omega Speedmaster FOIS ‘First Omega in Space’?

The 2018 edition of the Speedmaster ‘First Omega in Space’ comes with the identical shape as the 2012 FOIS but the case is now made with Omega’s own gold alloy, the 18K Sedna Gold – a rose gold supposed to keep its pink color better throughout the years (like Rolex’ Everose Gold). Basically, this watch is based on the classical Omega Speedmaster Professional ‘Moonwatch’ with a slightly distinct case. On past occasions, people normally wear out watches about seeing time. But presently, watches happen to be worn-out by many people for fashion and jewelry ornaments. Most people apply certain designer and splendid watches to provide those to their close and family members.
This shows how precious a simple mechanical watch had been in such a high-tech environment. This doesn’t change the reality that this Omega Speedmaster FOIS “First Omega in Space” in Sedna Gold is a pleasant watch to look at, which no doubt keeps its link with the rest of the Speedmaster collection. Further… There’s a major visual update that concerns the dial as well. Previously in full black, it now features a ‘panda’ color scheme, meaning a white face with black sub-counters and outer-ring (PVD coated) – something that may also change quite a lot the visual perception of the cheap replica Omega Speedmaster FOIS.
This new combination of a gold case and a panda dial is something that has absolutely no historical relevance (at least in terms of Speedmaster’s history) and that reminds of a certain Paul Newman chronograph made by the Crown… Sorry for the comparison, but it’s quite obvious. Of course, it changes considerably the taste of the watch that goes from a sporty watch with a bit of elegance (due to the pure dial and the rather small case) to an elegant chronograph with a bit of sportiveness.