As the world eagerly awaits the imminent launch of a Snoopy MoonSwatch [set to launch 26.03.24 at Swatch stores around the world], we take a moment to reflect on the presence of Snoopy within the watch world and how he earned his place on the Omega Speedmaster dial.
Omega Speedmaster Limited Edition Watches
Omega has produced a few limited edition watches based on the original Speedmaster Professional. From racing inspired "Michael Schumacher" Editions, to space heritage themed "From The Moon to Mars" Editions. These limited runs are often highly coveted collectors pieces, manufactured in low numbers, with historic significance.
One of these stand out limited models is of course the Omega Speedmaster Professional “Snoopy Award.” Which all stems from 1968.
In 1968 NASA adopted Snoopy as a symbol of vigilance for its missions. Charles M. Schulz, creator of the iconic Peanuts comic strip, granted NASA permission to use Snoopy, illustrated as an astronaut to act as their watchdog & mascot. The association culminated in the Apollo 13 mission, where the Speedmaster played a pivotal role in timing critical manoeuvres for the crew's safe return to Earth.
Charles M. Schulz went on to design a silver Snoopy pin which NASA awarded to Astronauts, employees and contractors - accompanied by a commendation letter and a framed Snoopy certificate. Only awarded for the highest achievements of ingenuity, bravery, and human exploration. These pins were allowed to be worn by NASA astronauts and pilots whilst in flight.
NASA's third Luna attempt, Apollo 13, failed to reach the Moon - Dubbed the "Successful failure." Following an explosion onboard the spacecraft the Omega Speedmaster Professional proved indispensable. It was used by the astronauts onboard to time crucial rocket ignitions, aiding in the crew's return to Earth. NASA recognised the vital role Omega played during this mission and were awarded the prestigious Snoopy award on October 5th, 1970.
Omega Speedmaster Snoopy Award 2003 "Eyes on the Stars"
Omega unveiled the Speedmaster Professional “Eyes on the Stars Snoopy Award” in 2003 to honour the 1970 milestone. Omega only produced 5,441 pieces, correlating with the duration of the mission: 142 hours, 54 minutes, and 41 seconds. While the reasoning behind its release 33 years post Apollo 13 remains a mystery, it stands as a fitting tribute to the mission's legacy.
Omega Speedmaster Snoopy Award 2015 "Failure is not an option"
Following the success of the 2003 Snoopy Watch, Omega released a new iteration in 2015 marking the 45th anniversary of their esteemed Snoopy Award, Omega unveiled an even more limited run of white dialled Speedmaster Professionals. These timepieces feature Snoopy in the 9 o’clock subdial, accompanied by a speech bubble stating “Failure is not an option.” Paying homage to the critical 14 seconds of thrust required for successful re-entry, the first 14 seconds are outlined. The inscription below prompts, “What could you do in 14 seconds?” Only 1,970 pieces were made.
Omega Speedmaster 50th Anniversary Silver Snoopy Award 2020
The most recent release is the Snoopy Silver Award 50th Anniversary. This time made of silver, stamped Ag925 on the dial. Snoopy again adorns the 9o'clock subdial or this stunning blue and silver watch. This time the image of snoopy is the exact design of the Silver Pins awarded by NASA in 1970 which truly is a stunning touch. Whilst this watch is not limited and is still available to purchase the average waitlist is 3-5 years.
A Snoopy MoonSwatch - The Next Chapter
As we move forward into 2024, the prospects of Omega x Swatch releasing a Snoopy MoonSwatch 23.06.23 certainly is exciting; undeniably Swatch have done a fantastic job democratising the Speedmaster watch since the MoonSwatch launched in 2022.
But... and there is only one but...
Given the heritage and longstanding history of the "Snoopy Award", do Swatch have the right to put him there?
Read more about the Snoopy MoonSwatch here or join our waiting list for further updates on the Snoopy MoonSwatch here
