Omega Speedmaster CK 2998-3 Fuerza Aerea Del Peru "FAP" Box and Papers Time Capsule
Launched in 1959 and produced until 1963, the Omega Speedmaster ref. 2998 was the second generation of Omega Speedmaster following the launch of the ref. 2915 in 1957. Featuring a stainless steel case with straight lugs, an unguarded crown, and pump pushers, the ref. 2998’s construction is wonderfully elegant and straightforward. Featuring a black dial with luminescent alpha-style hands and a black aluminum tachymetric bezel, the first chronograph to feature it outside of the dial, the Speedmaster ref. 2998 was a fantastically legible, and practical tool watch. The Speedmaster ref. 2998 was so practical, in fact, that it was the first reference of Speedmaster to travel into space. Worn by ‘Wally’ Shirra in 1962, the ref. 2998 is where the Speedmaster’s iconic moon-faring legacy began. Today, it is remembered for its journey into space and impact on the Speedmaster's design with its black bezel and centralized hippocampus and Omega logo on its caseback still featuring in the modern collection all these decades later. Offered here we have an example that was used by the Peruvian Air Force, or “Fuerza Aera Del Peru" as they are known, as shown by the provenance that this example comes with, along with its 'FAP' engraved caseback, which is in keeping with Omega's supply of the FAP with Speedmasters for their servicemen and high-ranking officials in the early 1960s, before Rolex were awarded the contract later into the decade. This particular watch is in our minds the FINEST example of an FAP Speedmaster to ever come up for sale. In imacculate condition and with full provenance, the watch comes with serial number matched hang tag, as well as other associated documentation. Of particular note is a letter from REISER & CURIONI SA, the importer for Omega in Peru. In this original letter addressed to Colnel Nestor Huarco, the deliovery of 380 Omega watches is confirmed, along with their guarantee certificates numbered 1000-1380. A truly historical timepiece with impeccable provenance.
THE DIAL Boasting a uniquely aged dial, this example retains its original luminescent material in its hands and hour markers which have all aged to take on a gorgeous deep orange color that stands in clear contrast to the CK 2998-3's black dial.
THE CONSTRUCTION Immediately recognizable thanks to its timeless design, the Speedmaster is a watch that will forever resonate with watch collectors thanks to its historic achievements, stunning good looks and links to organisations like NASA and the FAP, as in this example's case. On the wrist, this example's mesmerizing array of colors and iconic construction are a breathtaking combination.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
