Omega Speedmaster 3574.51 Apollo 17 'Gene Cernan' 42mm Circa 2002

Omega Speedmaster Professional 3574.51 Apollo 17 ‘Last Man on the moon’

Produced in the early 2000s as part of a limited series commemorating the Apollo missions, the Omega Speedmaster Professional 3574.51 “Gene Cernan” holds a special place within the brand’s long line of spaceflight-inspired chronographs. Named after astronaut Eugene “Gene” Cernan, the last man to walk on the Moon, this model celebrates not only the achievements of the Apollo era but also Omega’s enduring connection to NASA and its role in manned space exploration. While aesthetically similar to the standard Speedmaster Professional “Moonwatch,” the 3574.51 stands apart through its engraved caseback, unique commemorative markings, and historical significance.

Background: Omega and Spaceflight

The Omega Speedmaster’s relationship with NASA began in the early 1960s when the agency sought a reliable chronograph capable of withstanding the extreme conditions of manned space missions. After rigorous testing that included exposure to temperature fluctuations, vibration, acceleration, and vacuum conditions, the Speedmaster emerged as the only watch to pass all NASA’s requirements. It became officially flight-qualified for all manned missions in 1965.

Since then, the Speedmaster has been worn on every American spaceflight mission, earning its place as one of the most tested and trusted watches ever made. From Ed White’s first American spacewalk during Gemini IV to the Apollo 11 Moon landing in 1969, the Speedmaster was a critical piece of astronaut equipment. By the time of Apollo 17 in 1972, Gene Cernan wore his Speedmaster during humanity’s final lunar excursion. His mission became a defining symbol of the end of the Apollo program and inspired Omega’s later commemorative releases.

The Apollo XVII Connection

Apollo 17 launched on December 7, 1972, as the last mission of NASA’s Apollo program. Commanded by Gene Cernan, with Harrison Schmitt and Ronald Evans as crewmates, the mission focused on extensive lunar exploration and geological research. Cernan’s closing words on the Moon, reflecting on humanity’s spirit of discovery, became part of spaceflight history.

Omega’s connection to this mission is especially meaningful. Every astronaut aboard wore a Speedmaster Professional, continuing a tradition that began years earlier. Cernan’s personal Speedmaster, like those of his colleagues, endured the harsh lunar environment and returned to Earth as a symbol of precision and resilience. It is this legacy that the reference 3574.51 commemorates.

Reference Overview

The Omega Speedmaster Professional 3574.51 was introduced in 2002 as part of a limited production run. It is often referred to by collectors as the “Gene Cernan” edition because of its engraved caseback marking the Apollo XVII mission and its association with Cernan’s role as the last man on the Moon.

Although based on the standard Speedmaster Professional “Moonwatch” architecture, the 3574.51 differs in several ways. Most notably, the caseback bears the engraved inscription “The Last Man on the Moon – December 14, 1972,” alongside the Apollo XVII mission patch and “Limited Edition” numbering. These engravings were applied in honour of Cernan’s mission, transforming an already iconic chronograph into a historically anchored collector’s piece.

The reference was produced in limited quantities, with each piece individually numbered. While Omega did not release an official total production figure, it is generally accepted to be several thousand units, available primarily through Omega boutiques and selected authorised retailers in the early 2000s.

Case and Construction

The Speedmaster 3574.51 maintains the classic case dimensions and proportions of the traditional Moonwatch, measuring 42mm in diameter and made from stainless steel. It retains the twisted lugs, asymmetrical case design, and polished and brushed finishing that have defined the Speedmaster Professional since the mid-1960s.

The case is fitted with a domed hesalite crystal, chosen for its historical authenticity and resistance to shattering. Omega continued to use hesalite for its space-related models to preserve the same specification approved by NASA decades earlier. Beneath the crystal lies the black tachymeter bezel insert, constructed from anodised aluminium and marked up to 500 units per hour.

The screw-down caseback is the defining feature of the 3574.51. In addition to the Apollo XVII insignia and mission date, the engraving includes the words “Flight-Qualified by NASA for All Manned Space Missions” and “The First Watch Worn on the Moon,” consistent with all Speedmaster Professional models. The addition of “The Last Man on the Moon” distinguishes it as a special commemorative release within the Speedmaster line.

The case’s 48mm lug-to-lug measurement and 13.5mm thickness make it wearable across a range of wrist sizes. The asymmetrical design provides protection for the pushers and crown, ensuring durability during active use.

Dial and Hands

The dial of the Speedmaster 3574.51 follows the classic layout that has defined the Professional series for over half a century. It features a matte black background with three recessed subdials: a 30-minute counter at three o’clock, a 12-hour counter at six, and continuous seconds at nine. White printed minute and second tracks ensure clear legibility.

Applied Omega and Speedmaster logos are replaced here by printed text, consistent with post-1969 models. The hands are white-painted baton styles, filled with luminous material, while the chronograph seconds hand is thin and sharply pointed for precise timing. The subdial hands are equally crisp, maintaining visual balance.

The luminous hour markers and hands utilise Super-LumiNova, which replaced tritium during this period. Under low light, the lume emits a green glow that contrasts sharply with the matte black dial. The dial’s simplicity and high contrast contribute to the Speedmaster’s reputation for readability, both on Earth and in space.

Movement: Calibre 1861

At the heart of the Speedmaster 3574.51 is the manual-wind Omega Calibre 1861, a direct descendant of the Calibre 861 that powered the Speedmasters used during the Apollo missions. The 1861 features a copper-coloured finish and operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour, with a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.

This movement is renowned for its reliability and ease of maintenance. It retains the same cam-actuated chronograph mechanism used since 1968, known for its robustness and straightforward design. The calibre’s layout includes a lateral clutch and column wheel substitute, a system that provides smoother chronograph operation while being simpler to service.

Although not chronometer-certified, the Calibre 1861 consistently performs within precise tolerances. Its construction prioritises stability and longevity, ensuring consistent performance in demanding environments. For collectors and enthusiasts, the use of this movement underscores the authenticity of the Speedmaster’s mechanical lineage, linking the 3574.51 directly to the watches that travelled to the Moon.

Bracelet and Fit

The 3574.51 was delivered on the stainless steel Omega bracelet reference 1998/849. This design features solid links, a folding clasp with Omega engraving, and a combination of brushed and polished surfaces. It is both sturdy and comfortable, providing a balanced weight on the wrist.

The bracelet integrates seamlessly into the lugs, maintaining the overall coherence of the design. For those preferring alternatives, the 20mm lug width allows for easy strap changes to NATO or leather options. The versatility of the case design means the watch can adapt to different environments, from professional wear to casual use.

The bracelet design represents a transition between vintage and modern Speedmaster bracelets. It maintains the aesthetic of earlier models while offering improved solidity and clasp security.

Limited Edition Caseback Details

The most defining feature of the 3574.51 is the engraved caseback. It commemorates Gene Cernan’s role in Apollo XVII, the final lunar mission of the 20th century. The engraving includes the Apollo XVII mission patch at the centre, showing the profile of Apollo with a background of the American flag and the Moon. Surrounding it is the text “The Last Man on the Moon – December 14, 1972,” marking the precise date Cernan left the lunar surface.

Each caseback also features a unique limited edition number, engraved around the outer edge. This personalises each watch, making every piece a tangible link to one of humanity’s most significant explorations. The engraving process gives the markings depth and definition, distinguishing it clearly from the laser-etched engravings of later limited editions.

Presentation and Packaging

The 3574.51 was delivered in special presentation packaging that included a commemorative outer box and certificate of authenticity. The documentation confirmed the limited edition number and referenced the Apollo XVII mission. Inside, the watch rested on a padded display cushion, accompanied by Omega’s international warranty and pictogram cards.

Collectors value these original sets highly, as complete examples reflect both historical continuity and condition preservation. The presentation reinforces Omega’s commitment to producing commemorative editions that respect the historical events they celebrate.

Wearing Experience

The Speedmaster Professional design has changed very little since its NASA certification in 1965, and the 3574.51 maintains the same ergonomic balance. The 42mm size and hesalite crystal contribute to its lightness and comfort, while the manual-wind movement gives a tactile connection to the watch. Winding the 1861 each morning has become a ritual for many owners, reminiscent of the astronauts who did the same before each mission.

The flat dial and sharply printed scales make the watch easy to read at a glance. The hesalite crystal, with its subtle distortion at the edges, gives the dial a distinctive depth absent in sapphire models. The luminous hands and markers provide functional legibility in dark conditions, maintaining the utilitarian quality that defines the Speedmaster’s purpose.

While this reference carries historical weight, it remains suitable for everyday wear. Its combination of reliability, proportion, and understated design allows it to transition seamlessly from casual use to more formal settings.

Market Position and Collectability

The 3574.51 occupies a distinct position in the broader Speedmaster landscape. It sits between the standard production models and the more elaborate commemorative editions, such as the Apollo 11 or Snoopy Award versions. Its direct connection to the final Apollo mission and its limited production have made it increasingly desirable among collectors who focus on historically linked Speedmasters.

Market values reflect both rarity and condition. Examples retaining full box and papers, especially with unworn or minimally polished cases, command higher prices. The engraved caseback remains a key factor in collectability, as it directly ties the watch to Cernan’s legacy.

Compared to other limited editions, the 3574.51 is notable for its restraint. Omega opted for a traditional black dial rather than adding decorative mission patches or applied emblems. This preserves the watch’s professional appearance while maintaining its historical focus on Apollo XVII.

Historical Significance

Gene Cernan’s association with the Speedmaster is not symbolic alone. His missions, Gemini IX and Apollo 10 before Apollo XVII, were instrumental in the progression of NASA’s space program. Cernan was among the few astronauts to fly to the Moon twice, and his role in testing lunar modules and performing extravehicular activities helped pave the way for subsequent landings.

The Speedmaster he wore during Apollo XVII experienced the lunar surface firsthand. That historical connection gave Omega a unique opportunity to honour both Cernan and the watch’s role in space exploration. The 3574.51 captures that moment in physical form, offering wearers a tangible link to an event that marked the end of one of humanity’s greatest technological achievements.

Movement Heritage and Technical Continuity

The Calibre 1861 represents a long line of Omega manual-wind chronograph movements that began with the Calibre 321 in the late 1950s. The 321, featuring a column wheel, powered the earliest Speedmasters worn in space. It was succeeded by the 861 in 1968, which introduced a cam-switching mechanism for easier maintenance and cost efficiency. The 1861 continued this evolution, using improved materials and updated finishing.

While the 1861 lacks the decoration of Omega’s higher-grade calibres, its construction prioritises reliability. It is fitted with a 48-hour power reserve, rhodium plating, and a flat balance spring. Its precision and robustness have earned it a reputation as one of the most dependable manual chronograph movements in production.

The inclusion of this movement ensures the 3574.51 maintains both technical and historical authenticity. Owners experience the same winding action, pusher feel, and timing performance that defined the Speedmasters of the Apollo era.

Longevity and Serviceability

One of the key advantages of the Speedmaster 3574.51 lies in its serviceability. Omega continues to produce parts for the 1861 movement, ensuring long-term maintenance support. The design of the case and hesalite crystal also allows for easier restoration compared to sapphire models.

The stainless steel construction offers durability against wear and corrosion, and most examples retain strong case profiles even after years of use. Owners who preserve the brushed and polished finishes and avoid unnecessary polishing maintain both historical accuracy and market value.

Regular servicing ensures continued performance. Many independent watchmakers specialise in maintaining 1861-based Speedmasters, further enhancing the appeal for collectors who value long-term usability.

Legacy Within the Speedmaster Line

The 3574.51 forms part of Omega’s continuing tradition of producing mission-specific commemorative models. While not as elaborately styled as later limited editions, it is often regarded as one of the more authentic tributes due to its adherence to the original professional specification.

It reflects Omega’s ongoing respect for the astronauts who wore its watches and the role these chronographs played in the Apollo program. The model stands as a bridge between historical commemoration and contemporary production, embodying both functional design and historical narrative.

Final Thoughts

The Omega Speedmaster Professional 3574.51 “Gene Cernan” is a watch that captures a precise moment in both spaceflight history and Omega’s own legacy. Built on the same platform that accompanied astronauts to the Moon, it retains all the mechanical and visual characteristics of the Speedmaster Professional while adding a focused historical reference to Apollo XVII.

Its caseback engraving transforms a familiar design into a meaningful commemoration of the final human presence on the lunar surface. Powered by the Calibre 1861 and housed in a robust 42mm stainless steel case with a hesalite crystal, the watch continues to represent the combination of engineering and endurance that defined the Speedmaster’s role in space.

Viewed in context, the 3574.51 is not just a tribute to Gene Cernan but a representation of Omega’s methodical approach to preserving its heritage. It connects the wearer directly to the events of 1972, when the Speedmaster’s story reached its symbolic conclusion on the Moon. Through its restrained design and historical accuracy, the 3574.51 remains one of the most significant commemorative Speedmasters produced in the modern era.

• Case in great condition, light hairlines visible on case sides, no major wear. 
• Bracelet has some stretch & light hairlines visible. 

Dial & hands excellent condition.