1966 Omega Speedmaster 105.012-65

The 1966 Omega Speedmaster Professional Ref. 105.012-65 is one of the most historically important references in the entire Speedmaster lineage and is directly connected to the watches issued to the Apollo 11 astronauts. The 105.012 generation introduced the now-iconic 42mm asymmetrical stainless steel case with twisted “lyre” lugs and integrated crown and pusher protection, establishing the basic Moonwatch silhouette that continues today. The -65 features a matte black stepped dial with an applied metal Omega logo, tritium hour markers, “T SWISS MADE T” designation, and the early Speedmaster Professional typography. Period-correct examples are also associated with the highly desirable black tachymeter bezel with the “Dot Over 90” configuration, Hesalite crystal, and double-bevel pre-Moon caseback featuring the Speedmaster Seahorse rather than the later lunar-mission inscription. SpeedyBase
Inside is Omega’s legendary manually wound Calibre 321, a 17-jewel column-wheel chronograph movement operating at 18,000 vibrations per hour. The historical connection of this specific reference is exceptional: Neil Armstrong was issued a 105.012-65 for Apollo 11, while Buzz Aldrin also wore a 105.012 on the mission; Aldrin’s became the first watch worn on the lunar surface when Armstrong left his Speedmaster aboard the Lunar Module as a backup for its failed electronic timer. Fratello Watches Produced during the brief pre-Moon era and combining the Calibre 321 with an applied-logo stepped dial, DON bezel, early double-bevel caseback, and the case architecture that became synonymous with the Moonwatch, a 1966 Ref. 105.012-65 represents one of the closest connections a collector can own to the Speedmaster’s defining moment in spaceflight history.

Reference: 105.012-65

Movement number: 24,012,XXX

Dated: 1966

Dial/hands: Tritium

Bezel: "DON" (Dot Over Ninety)

Bracelet: 1506 clasp code (dated 1966) paired with 16 endlinks - Stainless Steel Bracelet

Case: 42mm - Stainless Steel

Lug Width: 20mm

Movement: 321 - Manual - Running (-13 s/d 275 amp)

Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Chronograph

Accessories: No box or papers - watch only

Crystal: Hesalite

Bracelet size: 7.5”

Case has minimal wear for the age of the watch. Bracelet has some micro wear with minimal sag at an 8/10. Dial is clean with a nice pumpkin patina. Hands are in great shape with a matching pumpkin patina as well. Bezel has light micro wear and has the slightest blue hue to it. Running (-13 s/d 275 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.