Themed auctions can be incredibly compelling, especially when the theme is hyper-specific. Take Sotheby’s Space Exploration AuctionFor example, which opens July 15: Its 134 lots span mid-century Space Race history and include everything from spacecraft pieces to wrist watches from Buzz Aldrin’s personal collection, including some Omega Speedmasters, the watch he made iconic.
When astronauts Neil Armstrong and Aldrin became the first people to visit the Moon, they did so with Omega’s Speedmaster on their wrists. The watch passed numerous tests and qualified for a NASA flight for the first and to date only time. With some help from Aldrin, the watch has achieved legendary status. So it’s no surprise that the man has become a watch collector in the intervening years, often double-wielding with at least one Omega Speedmaster. This makes this collection coming up for auction even more significant as these watches come courtesy of a man who is very big on horror myth-making.
And while that doesn’t include the 24 pieces that came under the hammer at Sotheby’s The Speedmaster – which Aldrin wore to the Moon and was stolen en route to the Smithsonian in 1969 – joins an impressive array of other watches owned by America’s most famous living lunar explorer. From commemorative souvenir watches to unique Bulova Accutrons and yes—a Speedmaster or two, it spans decades of Aldrin’s life and reflects the retired brigadier general’s wide-ranging tastes. Of course, Omega is particularly well represented…but there are a few surprises too. Here are our favourites.
Omega Speedmaster Professional Ref. ₹3590.50.00 (high estimate of $12,000)
While Aldrin’s Speedy worn on the Moon is lost to history, the one he picked up around 1990 is available with an estimate of $8 to 12K: a ref. 3590.50.00, this is a 42mm moonwatch with tritium lume, a matching steel bracelet, a hand-wound cal. 861 movement, and a Hesalite crystal. It appears to be in particularly good condition for a watch that is nearly 36 years old and has an affidavit detailing its provenance signed by Aldrin’s power of attorney. If you can’t get Buzz’s personal moon-wearing moonwatch, this is the next best thing. $12 grand for a watch like this seems like a steal.
