"The Panda"

A year after Omega introduced the famous and highly sought-after Speedmaster “Mitsukoshi” edition of 300 pieces only, they used the same design for the Apollo XI anniversary model of 2004. A beautiful panda dial (white dial, black subdials), with an applied Omega logo and the date of the Moonlanding printed in red.

Limited to 3500 pieces (referring to the 35th anniversary), this model is one of the most sought after Apollo XI editions and relatively difficult to obtain these days, especially in the condition that we are offering here on Fratello. We did a full write-up on this exact Speedmaster Professional reference 3569.31 here on Fratello’s magazine.

Apollo 11 mission patch

The case, bracelet, and caliber 1861 movement of this Apollo XI 3569.51 are exactly the same as those of the regular Speedmaster Professional from that era, the reference 3570.50 Moonwatch. Interesting about this watch is, of course, the panda dial, but the case back is a treasure on its own. It features a sapphire caseback with the Apollo XI mission patch. The same patch can be found on the inside of the black leather presentation box that comes with the watch, and the certificate of authenticity. As you will see on the image, the presentation box is deteriorated a bit. This is a common issue with boxes from that era, even though it doesn’t seem that long ago. The box is complete and working, but it shows cracked leather. The logo inside the box and the felt inside is still in good shape. A black leather (also deteriorated) cardholder has the international warranty card inside. Inside the white cardboard box you will also find the red Omega instruction manual.

Condition

When buying pre-owned, the condition is key. That’s what we fully understand here at Fratello, as we are collectors ourselves for many years (decades). This Omega Speedmaster Professional Apollo 11 3569.51 is in absolute mint condition, there are no scratches or wear marks on the watch, except for some fingerprints from handling the watch. This watch has been kept safe for many years and has not been worn except for our photoshoot. This watch should be worn though, it deserves to be. Aside from the leather box and cardholder, everything is in perfect condition.

Specifications

Model: Omega Speedmaster Professional Apollo XI 35th Anniversary (2004)
Reference: 3569.31
Dial: Panda dial, rhodium plated hands, applied OMEGA logo, commemorative date printed in red
Case Material: Stainless steel
Case Dimensions: 42mm x 48mm x 13.3mm
Lug Width: 20mm
Crystal: Hesalite
Case Back: Special (sapphire) case back with Apollo XI patch
Movement: Omega caliber 1861
Power Reserve: 48 hours
Water Resistance: 3 atm (30 meters)
Strap: Stainless steel bracelet (ref. 1998, 849 endpieces)
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds sub-dial, minutes sub-dial, hours sub-dial, central chronograph seconds hand, tachymeter
Special notes: Limited edition of 3500 pieces (production year 2004), special packaging and Certificate of Authenticity