1965 Omega Speedmaster 'Pewter Grey' Dial 105.012-63

The 1965 Omega Speedmaster Professional Ref. 105.012-63 “Pewter Grey” is an exceptionally rare example of one of the most historically significant references in Speedmaster history. The 105.012 marked a major turning point for Omega, introducing the now-iconic 42mm asymmetrical stainless steel case with twisted lyre lugs and protective crown and pusher guards, establishing the silhouette that would eventually become synonymous with the Moonwatch. The early -63 execution is particularly desirable among collectors, representing the first generation of this new case architecture and the earliest Speedmasters to carry the “Professional” designation on the dial. While most examples were produced with traditional matte black dials, a small number are known with an unusual metallic pewter-grey finish, giving the watch a completely different personality while retaining the unmistakable design of an early Speedmaster Professional.

The defining feature of this example is its extraordinary pewter-grey dial, a seldom-seen variation that stands apart from the familiar black dials associated with vintage Speedmasters. Its metallic finish creates a subtle reflective quality, shifting between charcoal, slate, and lighter silver-grey tones depending on the lighting. The dial retains the classic three-register chronograph layout, applied metal Omega logo, and vintage luminous hour markers, while the earliest examples feature the distinctive “SWISS MADE” signature without the later tritium “T” markings. These early grey-dial configurations are especially sought after because of their scarcity and the difficulty of finding well-preserved examples. Paired with the domed Hesalite crystal, black tachymeter bezel, and original pre-Moon case design, the pewter-grey dial gives this Speedmaster an understated but unmistakably special appearance that separates it from conventional production examples.

Inside is Omega's legendary manually wound Calibre 321, a 17-jewel column-wheel chronograph movement operating at 18,000 vibrations per hour and providing approximately 44 hours of power reserve. Developed from a Lemania chronograph architecture, the Calibre 321 is celebrated for its mechanical refinement and its direct connection to the Speedmasters used during NASA's earliest manned space missions. The 105.012 would ultimately become one of the most important references in the entire collection, with Buzz Aldrin wearing a watch from this reference family on the lunar surface during Apollo 11 in 1969. The early 105.012-63 predates that historic achievement while preserving the movement and case architecture that helped make it possible. With its extremely uncommon metallic pewter-grey dial, early Professional designation, desirable Calibre 321, and direct connection to the formative years of the Moonwatch, this 1965 example represents a fascinating opportunity for collectors seeking something far more unusual than a traditional vintage Speedmaster.

Reference: 105.012-63

Movement number: 20,526,3XX

Date: 1965

Dial: 'Pewter Grey' metallic glossy dial, tritium hour markers, swiss made only (early version without T)

Hands: Tritium

Bezel: DON

Bracelet: Stainless steel 1506/16 bracelet, dated 1.65

Case: 42mm - Stainless Steel

Lug Width: 20mm

Movement: 321 - Manual - Running (+5s/d 320 amp)

Functions: HMS, Chronograph

Accessories: Omega Museum Archives extract confirming the grey dial

Crystal: Hesalite

Bracelet size: 7.5”

Case has some wear with light marks and scratches. Bracelet has light micro wear with nothing notable. Dial is clean with patina lume intact. Hands have light wear with lume falling out gradually. Bezel insert has a couple scratches but overall great shape. Watch is running (+7s/d 323 amp).

Founded in 1848 by Louis Brandt in Switzerland, Omega has grown into one of the most respected and innovative names in watchmaking. The brand’s early focus on precision earned it accolades at international observatories and competitions, setting the stage for decades of horological achievement. Omega became the official timekeeper for the Olympic Games in 1932, and in 1969, the Speedmaster Professional—nicknamed the "Moonwatch"—made history as the first watch worn on the lunar surface during NASA’s Apollo 11 mission. Omega’s innovations continued with the introduction of the Co-Axial escapement in the late 1990s, a groundbreaking movement that dramatically reduced friction and improved long-term accuracy.

Omega’s lineup showcases a wide range of iconic models that reflect the brand’s legacy and versatility. The Seamaster, introduced in 1948, is a favorite among divers and famously worn by James Bond since 1995’s GoldenEye, blending technical capability with cinematic cool. The Speedmaster remains one of the most storied chronographs in existence, while the Constellation is known for its refined design and chronometric precision. The De Ville collection offers a more elegant, dress-focused aesthetic, often featuring high-end complications and meticulous finishing. Omega continues to lead with innovations like Master Chronometer certification, METAS testing, and antimagnetic technology—ensuring that its watches are not just beautiful, but built for the demands of modern life.