Swatch Group

Omega reintroduces its iconic Calibre 321

VINTAGEMANIA

Press release

January 2019

Since the 1940s, the calibre 321 has been one of the most researched among watch fans and is still highly sought-after by watch collectors around the world. Now, more than 50 years after the last calibre 321 was produced, Omega announces that they are bringing the iconic movement back. What is so special about it?

Omega reintroduces its iconic Calibre 321

VINTAGEMANIA

Press release

January 2019

Omega reintroduces its iconic Calibre 321

Since the 1940s, the calibre 321 has been one of the most researched among watch fans and is still highly sought-after by watch collectors around the world. Now, more than 50 years after the last calibre 321 was produced, Omega announces that they are bringing the iconic movement back. What is so special about it?

T

he original Calibre 321 managed to earn a notable place in history: let’s not forget that this is one of the most robust column wheel chronograph movements which powered the Speedmaster ST 105.003 - the model first tested and qualified by NASA and worn by astronaut Ed White during the first American spacewalk, - and the Speedmaster ST 105.012 - the first watch worn on the moon.

: Original caliber 321

Reintroducing a movement with such an important reputation must therefore be done with the utmost exactness. For the Calibre 321 project, Omega used a dedicated team of experts who worked over two years and in total secrecy to bring the movement to life. The small group was composed of researchers, developers and historians, as well as the finest craftsmen and experienced watchmakers.

Using the 2nd generation Calibre 321 as a reference, the Omega team compiled extensive historical research and original plans to reconstruct the movement as accurately as possible. Going even further, they also used digital scanning technology to see inside the true Speedmaster ST 105.003 timepiece that astronaut Eugene “Gene” Cernan wore on the moon during the Apollo 17 mission in 1972.

As a result, Calibre 321 has been reborn in respect to their authentic specifications. The new movements will now go into production at Omega’s HQ site in Bienne. Uniquely, all aspects of creation will be undertaken within a dedicated Calibre 321 workshop. For each movement, the assembly, as well as the watch head and bracelet assembly will be performed by the same watchmaker. Watch fans can expect more developments and news in the coming months.

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