This chronograph was worn by astronaut Jack Swigert, Command Module Pilot of the Apollo 13 mission in April 1970.
The Omega Speedmaster Chronograph was chosen by NASA for the U.S. space program after a series of rigorous tests demonstrated its high level of precision and reliability. Program requirements called for a manual-winding wrist chronograph that was water-proof, shock-proof, anti-magnetic, and able to withstand temperatures ranging from 0 to 200 degrees farenheit and accelerations of 12 times the normal force of gravity. The Omega Speedmaster was certified by NASA as the chronograph for the Gemini program in June 1965, and successive purchases were made for both the Apollo and the Skylab/ASTP missions.
NASA transferred the collection of chronographs to the Museum in 1977.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
Switzerland
Type
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Accessories
Astronaut
John L. Swigert Jr.
Manufacturer
Omega Watch Co.
Dimensions
3-D: 5.1 x 3.8 x 1.3cm (2 x 1 1/2 x 1/2 in.)
Materials
Case: Stainless steel
Lens: Hesalite (synthetic crystal)
Interior mechanism: Brass, stainless steel, jewels
Inventory Number
A19771181000
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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