Astronaut Buzz Aldrin's Omega Speedmaster Watches Head to Sotheby's Auction

Approaching the anniversary of the iconic Apollo 11 lunar landing, a unique opportunity has arisen for horology aficionados and space history enthusiasts alike. Sotheby's is presenting a curated selection of timepieces from the personal collection of Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon. This auction event highlights several significant Omega watches, offering a tangible link to one of humanity's greatest achievements and a legendary astronaut.

Buzz Aldrin, now 96, remains a prominent figure and an ambassador for Omega, a brand intrinsically linked with space exploration. While his original Moonwatch, the Omega Speedmaster Professional 105.012, famously disappeared en route to the Smithsonian and has never been recovered, his personal collection provides other remarkable pieces. These watches not only reflect his enduring relationship with the brand but also his diverse tastes, ranging from classic models to more specialized editions. His habit of wearing multiple watches, often an Omega alongside another timepiece, underscores his unique connection to these instruments.

Among the noteworthy items up for grabs from the Buzz Aldrin Family Trust are 14 lots that feature timekeeping devices, with eight being Omega models. This includes four Speedmasters, two De Villes, a Seamaster 300M, and a Constellation. Each Speedmaster in the auction carries its own unique story and specifications, making them highly desirable for collectors.

One of the highlights is the Omega Speedmaster Professional reference 3590.50.00, a classic Moonwatch model first released in 1988. This particular example, identifiable by its distinct dial printing and blue protective material on the case back, appears to be in pristine condition, suggesting minimal wear. Sotheby's has placed an estimated value of US$8,000–12,000 on this piece, though similar models without the Aldrin provenance can be found for less on the secondary market. Another striking offering is the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonshine Gold 310.60.42.50.99.002, affectionately nicknamed the “Pikachu” model. Despite Sotheby's initial description, this is a standard production piece from 2022, crafted from Omega’s exclusive yellow Moonshine Gold. Sent directly to Aldrin, it features a solid Moonshine Gold dial with contrasting black sub-dials. This unworn timepiece is estimated at US$40,000–60,000, presenting a potential bargain compared to its retail price for those seeking a unique connection to Aldrin. The third Speedmaster in the collection is the Omega Speedmaster HB-SIA “Solar Impulse” 321.90.44.52.01.001. Introduced in 2008, this titanium watch is notable for its carbon fiber dial, Co-Axial escapement, and GMT function. Aldrin's specific piece is numbered 3593 out of approximately 4,100 produced. Although Sotheby's misidentified its diameter, it is a robust 44.25mm case. Valued at US$6,000–9,000, this model, which shows signs of wear, offers a rare chance to own a piece of Aldrin’s daily life. Lastly, the Omega Speedmaster X-33 Gen 2 “NASA” 318.90.45.79.01.001 is a particularly intriguing entry. This specialized version, provided to NASA astronauts, differs from commercial models primarily by its unique, unmarked case back. This watch, much like the 3590.50, includes a letter of provenance signed by Aldrin’s power of attorney. Its current bid already exceeds its US$4,000–6,000 estimate, reflecting its high desirability, especially as similar models are scarce on the pre-owned market. The auction provides a unique intersection of space history and watch collecting, offering items with significant historical weight.

The auction will commence on July 15th at 10:00 EDT (16:00 CEST), providing a rare window for collectors and admirers to acquire a piece of Buzz Aldrin’s storied legacy. These timepieces, each with documented ties to the legendary astronaut, represent not just exquisite watchmaking but also fragments of a life dedicated to pushing the boundaries of human exploration.