More than five decades after humanity’s first Moon landing, OMEGA and Swatch are celebrating one of history’s most extraordinary achievements with one of the most exclusive MoonSwatch releases to date.
Introducing the MISSION TO THE MOON 1969, a limited edition of just 1,969 individually numbered timepieces, created to honour the Apollo 11 mission and the historic lunar landing on 21 July 1969.
While the MoonSwatch collection has become renowned for making the iconic Speedmaster design more accessible, this latest release takes a decidedly more luxurious approach. The dial, hands, crown and pushers are all crafted from OMEGA’s proprietary 18K Moonshine™ Gold, with each watch containing exactly 11 grams of the precious metal – a subtle nod to Apollo 11.
Adding another layer of significance, the gold itself comes from vintage OMEGA spare parts dating back to the era of the original Moon landing. The material was melted down in OMEGA’s own foundry and transformed into fresh Moonshine™ Gold, giving the watch a tangible connection to the history it celebrates.
In another clever twist, Swatch has priced the watch at CHF 500, a figure inspired by the value of gold on 21 July 1969 rather than today’s considerably higher market price.
The design pays homage to the legendary 1969 gold Speedmaster created to commemorate Apollo 11. A vertically satin-finished gold dial is framed by a matte black Bioceramic case and black Bioceramic tachymeter bezel with gold-coloured detailing, while vintage OMEGA branding, gold bevelled hour markers and period-correct typography reinforce the nostalgic aesthetic. The 42mm chronograph is powered by a quartz movement and is paired with a black rubber strap featuring a gold-coloured lining and VELCRO® closure, staying true to the spirit of the original MoonSwatch collection.
The commemorative touches continue on the reverse. The battery cover features a golden Moon complete with the date of the historic landing and a footprint representing Neil Armstrong’s first step onto the Sea of Tranquillity. Each watch is individually numbered, with its edition number engraved into the side of the case and highlighted with golden lacquer, ensuring every piece is unique.
Rather than offering the watch through traditional retail channels, Swatch is introducing an application process inspired by the ESTA travel authorisation required for entry into the United States. Collectors must complete an online Electronic Swatch Timepiece Application (ESTA), answering 32 questions before the deadline. Only 1,969 successful applicants will receive approval to purchase the watch before collecting it from a selected Swatch boutique.
Blending genuine Moonshine™ Gold with historic materials from OMEGA’s archives, thoughtful design references and a highly exclusive release, the MISSION TO THE MOON 1969 is more than another MoonSwatch. It is a celebration of one of mankind’s greatest milestones, reimagined for a new generation of collectors and watch enthusiasts.