Why is Omega hosting this exhibition with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC)?
Omega in partnership with the MBRSC is celebrating three things:
- The 57th anniversary of the first Moon landing. On July 20th 1969, the lunar module Aquarius separated from the command module Eagle (both comprising the Apollo 11 mission) and landed on the Sea of Tranquillity on the lunar surface. On July 21st Neil Armstrong became the first human to set foot on the lunar surface, followed a short while later by Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin.
- The UAE’s extraordinary achievements in space exploration.
- The legacy of the OMEGA Speedmaster. When Aldrin walked down the steps of the Eagle’s ladder down to the lunar surface, the Speedmaster on his wrist became the first watch to visit another world.
What are some of the UAE’s notable achievements in space?
- The Zayed Ambition 1 mission. It carried Emirati astronaut Hazzaa Al Mansoori to the International Space Station (ISS) in 2019. With this mission, the UAE became the first Arab country to travel to the ISS.
- The Zayed Ambition 2 mission. It carried Emirati astronaut H.E. Dr. Sultan AlNeyadi to the ISS as part of Expedition 69, a six-month long mission where he participated in more than 200 research experiments and studies and a spacewalk that lasted 7 hours and 1 minute. The Zayed Ambition 2 mission was launched on 2nd March 2023 and was the “UAE’s longest Arab space mission.” He wore a Speedmaster during the mission.
“The first Moon landing remains one of humanity’s greatest achievements, demonstrating what can be accomplished through ambition, collaboration and scientific innovation. As the UAE continues to advance its own journey in space exploration, this exhibition in collaboration with OMEGA offers an opportunity to honour that historic legacy, celebrate Emirati achievements in space, and inspire future generations to contribute to the next chapter of exploration.” – H.E. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General, Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre.
Does the exhibition honour the OMEGA Speedmaster?
Yes. Introduced in 1957, the Speedmaster boasts several firsts. The first chronograph with a tachymeter on its bezel. The first and only watch to be flight qualified by NASA in 1965. The first watch worn on the moon in 1969.
“The Speedmaster’s history is woven into the exploration of space – a testament to enduring precision, resilience and innovation. We are honoured to strengthen our partnership with MBRSC and to share the story of this iconic timepiece with the region, inspiring future generations to pursue exploration and discovery.” – Raynald Aeschlimann, President and CEO of OMEGA.
Also Read: Omega unveils a new version of the Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional
What do we think?
The OMEGA Speedmaster or the Moonwatch is one of the most iconic watches of all time. Its enduring appeal and legacy almost 54 years after Apollo 17, the last manned lunar mission is as strong as ever. This exhibition is a reminder to the younger generation about the Apollo lunar missions, “humanity’s greatest exploration milestones” while highlighting the UAE’s own space achievements. The Speedmaster is the common thread between the two.
Additional Details
The exhibition is held at the MBRSC headquarters in Dubai.
Please contact the Rivoli Group for more information. They are OMEGA’s authorised partner in the UAE.
Please click here to learn more abut OMEGA and here to learn more about the MBRSC.
