The Omega Speedmaster Professional, affectionately known as the Moonwatch, boasts a rich history intertwined with space exploration. While many variations exist, a particular subset of these legendary timepieces captivates collectors and enthusiasts alike: those featuring the enigmatic "220" bezel. This seemingly simple marking, a misprint etched into the tachymeter scale, has transformed a minor production error into a highly sought-after characteristic, dramatically impacting the value and desirability of these watches. This article delves into the world of the Omega Speedmaster 220 bezel, exploring its origins, its significance to collectors, and the fascinating story behind this "space oddity."
Omega Speedmaster 220 Bezel: The Misprint That Made History
The Omega Speedmaster 220 bezel isn't a planned feature; it's a testament to the unpredictable nature of manufacturing. During a period of production, an error occurred in the stamping process of the bezel inserts. Instead of the correctly printed tachymeter scale, some watches received bezels marked with "220" prominently displayed where the "500" marking should have been. This wasn't a consistent flaw; it affected a relatively small number of watches, making them incredibly rare and desirable.
The exact timeframe and number of Speedmasters produced with the 220 bezel are still debated among collectors. The limited availability and lack of official documentation from Omega contribute to the mystique. This scarcity, combined with the unexpected nature of the misprint, has fueled a fervent interest among watch enthusiasts, transforming a simple manufacturing error into a highly collectible attribute.
220 Bezel Value: A Skyrocket in the Collector's Market
The rarity of the Omega Speedmaster 220 bezel directly translates to significantly higher values compared to their correctly marked counterparts. While a standard Speedmaster Professional can command a respectable price, a watch with the 220 bezel commands a premium often exceeding several thousand dollars, depending on the watch's overall condition and specific reference number.
Several factors contribute to the elevated value:
* Rarity: The limited number of watches produced with the 220 bezel is the primary driver of its high value. The lower the number of examples known to exist, the higher the demand and consequently, the price.
* Collector Demand: The 220 bezel has become a highly sought-after feature among collectors. The story behind the misprint, the rarity, and the unique aesthetic appeal all contribute to the intense demand.
* Condition: As with any collectible item, the condition of the watch significantly affects its value. A pristine example with a well-preserved 220 bezel will command a significantly higher price than one showing signs of wear and tear.
* Reference Number: Different reference numbers within the Speedmaster line can influence the value. Certain reference numbers associated with the 220 bezel might be rarer than others, further increasing their desirability and price.
* Box and Papers: The inclusion of the original box and papers significantly adds to the value of any collectible watch, and the Speedmaster 220 is no exception. A complete set with documentation increases its authenticity and desirability.
The value of a Speedmaster with a 220 bezel is not static. It fluctuates based on market trends, collector interest, and the overall condition of the watch. Experienced collectors and watch dealers regularly track these variations to gauge the current market value.
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