Vintage Omega Speedmaster Professional "No-NASA" 145.022-71 Cal. 861
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Ref. 145.022-71 with its uncommon “No NASA” caseback is one of the most intriguing variations in Speedmaster history. Produced in the early 1970s, its missing NASA engraving gives it a quietly unique character that immediately catches the eye of collectors. For anyone who values both the heritage of the Speedmaster and the joy of owning something a little uncommon, the 145.022-71 “No NASA” is a remarkable way to wear a piece of the story.
According to an article on the No NASA model from Fratello Watches, the explanation for the back was unearthed by a former NASA engineer.
"When Omega decided to put the inscription “Flight-Qualified by NASA for all manned space missions” on the casebacks, instead of the “First Watch Worn on the Moon” straight-text inscription, this needed to be approved by NASA’s Public Affairs at the time. As there was some delay in this approval process, Omega has put out some 145.022-71 casebacks with no inscription at all. So for a very short period, this has been done with this specific reference."
Condition is per the photos and as follows:
Case: 42mm stainless steel case in excellent condition as shown. The case retains extremely sharp edges and bright polished surfaces on the twisted lugs. The case shows few minor nicks on the sides as shown in the photos.
Bezel: Original and correct "DNN" tachymetre bezel in fantastic condition with no major dings or missing paint as shown. (Configuration B2 from MWO)
Dial/Hands: Original stepped dial in excellent condition (Configuration C1 from MWO) with a very light patina on the hour markers which have intact original tritium. Hands are original with slightly darker patina, there is some missing tritium on the minutes hand as shown in the photos.
Caseback: Very rare original "no-NASA" caseback with correct 145.022-71 inscription (Configuration C1 from MWO)
Crystal: Very clean and clear acrylic crystal with no major scratching and no chips or cracks. The crystal is OEM Omega and has the embossed symbol in the center. This crystal is configuration "A3 Long Feet" which is the original correct style for the era the watch was produced in.
Movement: Omega cal. 861 hand wound chronograph movement in excellent condition and keeping good time. This movement is exceptionally clean and is extremely attractive with no damaged screw heads and very bright surfaces throughout. All functions work as they should and the chronograph resets to zero. 32.20M serial number indicates circa late 1971 production. Original anti-magnetic dust cover is still present as shown in the photos. Service history is unknown.
Bracelet/Strap: Like new brown leather strap with SS buckle.
Box/Papers/Accessories: None.