Omega’s Speedmaster collection is one of the most celebrated series in horology, especially known for its historical connection to space exploration. Among the many variants of the Speedmaster, the Omega Speedmaster “Snoopy” editions are highly sought after by collectors. These watches pay tribute to the Silver Snoopy Award that NASA awarded Omega for its contributions to space missions, particularly the Apollo 13 mission.
This article will explore the production numbers of the different Omega Snoopy watches, detailing the context, the unique features of each edition, and the significance of their limited production runs.
The Omega Speedmaster and the Snoopy Connection
The connection between Omega and Snoopy dates back to the Apollo 13 mission in 1970. Omega’s Speedmaster played a crucial role in the safe return of the astronauts, earning the company NASA’s prestigious Silver Snoopy Award. This honor is given to companies or individuals who have significantly contributed to the success of human spaceflight missions.
The Silver Snoopy Award
The Silver Snoopy Award is a significant part of NASA’s recognition program, with the Snoopy character symbolizing vigilance, risk reduction, and mission success. Omega’s Speedmaster was crucial in timing the engine burns that corrected the trajectory of the Apollo 13 spacecraft, ultimately saving the lives of the astronauts. In honor of this contribution, Omega has released special “Snoopy” editions of the Speedmaster, which have become legendary among collectors.
The First Omega Snoopy: The 2003 Edition
Limited Production and Specifications
The first Omega Speedmaster Snoopy Edition was released in 2003 to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the Apollo 13 mission. This watch, also known as the “Silver Snoopy Award” Speedmaster, featured a white dial and a small Snoopy medallion on the sub-dial at 9 o’clock.
Production Numbers:
Limited Edition: Omega produced 5,441 pieces of the 2003 Snoopy Edition.
Significance of the Number: The number 5,441 corresponds to the duration in seconds that the Speedmaster was used to time the crucial engine burn during Apollo 13.
Key Features:
Dial: White with black sub-dials.
Case: 42mm stainless steel.
Movement: Caliber 1861 manual-winding chronograph.
Caseback: Engraved with the Snoopy medallion and the text “Eyes on the Stars.”
Market Impact
The 2003 Snoopy Edition quickly became a collector’s favorite due to its limited production and historical significance. Although initially sold at a premium over the standard Speedmaster, its value has increased substantially in the secondary market due to its rarity and the enduring appeal of the Snoopy motif.
The Omega Speedmaster Apollo 13 Silver Snoopy Award: The 2015 Edition
A Tribute to the 45th Anniversary
In 2015, Omega released a second Snoopy edition to mark the 45th anniversary of the Apollo 13 mission. This watch, often referred to as the “Silver Snoopy Award” edition, features a striking design with a white dial and black ceramic bezel.
Production Numbers:
Limited Edition: The 2015 Snoopy was limited to 1,970 pieces.
Significance of the Number: The production run of 1,970 units corresponds to the year of the Apollo 13 mission.
Key Features:
Dial: White, with a black and white Snoopy cartoon at 9 o’clock.
Case: 42mm stainless steel.
Movement: Caliber 1861.
Caseback: Features a silver Snoopy medallion surrounded by dark blue enamel, representing the dark vastness of space.
Market Reception and Value
The 2015 edition was met with even greater enthusiasm than the 2003 model, partly due to its even more limited production and the creative use of the Snoopy character on the dial. Collectors highly prized this model, and it quickly sold out, becoming one of the most coveted modern Speedmasters.
Market Impact:
The 2015 Snoopy has seen dramatic appreciation in value, often selling for several times its original retail price in the pre-owned market.
See Also: How Many Omega Moon Watches Were Made
The Omega Speedmaster “Silver Snoopy Award”: The 2020 Edition
Celebrating the 50th Anniversary
In 2020, Omega released the third Snoopy edition to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 13 mission. This watch is notable for its unique caseback, featuring a moving Snoopy in a Command and Service Module (CSM) that orbits the moon.
Production Numbers:
Limited Production: Unlike the previous Snoopy editions, the 2020 version is not a limited edition, meaning Omega did not announce a specific production cap. However, the production is still controlled and limited by the demand and complexity of the manufacturing process.
Key Features:
Dial: Blue with a silver Snoopy medallion at 9 o’clock.
Case: 42mm stainless steel.
Movement: Master Chronometer Caliber 3861, featuring Co-Axial escapement and METAS certification.
Caseback: Features an animated depiction of Snoopy in the CSM, with the Earth rotating in the background.
Market Impact
Despite not being a numbered limited edition, the 2020 Snoopy has become incredibly popular, with long waiting lists at authorized dealers. The watch’s innovative design and historical significance have made it a must-have for collectors.
Market Impact:
Due to the high demand and limited availability, the 2020 Snoopy often trades above its retail price in the secondary market, and its long-term value is expected to increase.
Why Are Omega Snoopy Watches So Coveted?
Historical Significance
The Omega Snoopy watches are more than just timepieces; they are symbols of human achievement and ingenuity. Each edition commemorates the Apollo 13 mission, a story of teamwork, problem-solving, and survival against the odds. For collectors, owning a Snoopy watch is like holding a piece of history.
Limited Production and Scarcity
The scarcity of the 2003 and 2015 editions, combined with the controlled production of the 2020 edition, has driven up demand among collectors. Limited production runs ensure that these watches remain exclusive and highly desirable.
Unique Design Elements
Each Snoopy edition features unique design elements that distinguish them from other Speedmasters. The use of the Snoopy character, special caseback engravings, and distinctive dials make these watches stand out in the vast Speedmaster lineup.
Investment Value
Due to their rarity and historical significance, Omega Snoopy watches have shown strong appreciation in value over time. Collectors who purchased these watches at retail have seen substantial returns on their investments.
Conclusion
The Omega Snoopy editions are among the most celebrated and sought-after watches in the Speedmaster series. From the first edition in 2003 to the latest in 2020, each Snoopy watch tells a story of space exploration and human achievement. With their limited production and unique design elements, these watches have become modern icons in the world of horology.
For watch enthusiasts and collectors, the Omega Snoopy editions represent a perfect blend of history, artistry, and exclusivity. Whether you’re lucky enough to own one or simply admire them from afar, these watches are a testament to Omega’s enduring legacy and its special relationship with space exploration.
