On July 20th, 2021, a momentous occasion unfolded, marking a significant step in commercial space travel. Blue Origin's New Shepard successfully launched its first crewed mission, carrying Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, his brother Mark Bezos (serving as flight commander), pioneering aviator Wally Funk (then 82 years young), and Oliver Daemen into the black expanse beyond Earth's atmosphere. What immediately caught the attention of many, beyond the breathtaking spectacle of the launch itself, was the unusual sight on the wrists of each passenger: not one, but *two* Omega Speedmaster watches. This seemingly simple detail speaks volumes about the enduring legacy of the Speedmaster, its connection to space exploration, and the meticulous planning that goes into even the most ambitious private spaceflights. This article delves into the significance of the dual Speedmasters worn during this historic flight, exploring the various models that fall under the broader umbrella of "blue" Omega Speedmasters and touching upon the collector's market for these coveted timepieces.
The Dual Speedmaster Enigma: A Symbol of Heritage and Reliability
The choice of the Omega Speedmaster for this pivotal mission was far from arbitrary. The Speedmaster's legendary status as the "Moonwatch," its qualification for use in all NASA manned space missions since 1965, and its proven reliability in the harshest of environments made it the perfect companion for this journey to the edge of space. But why two watches per astronaut? While Blue Origin hasn't explicitly detailed the reasoning, speculation points towards redundancy and safety. In the unforgiving conditions of spaceflight, having a backup timekeeping device is crucial. A malfunctioning primary watch could significantly impact mission timelines and safety protocols. The dual Speedmaster approach represents a commitment to fail-safe procedures, a testament to Blue Origin’s dedication to mission success.
This decision also underscores the profound symbolic weight of the Speedmaster. It's not merely a tool; it's a piece of history, a tangible link to the golden age of space exploration and a testament to human ingenuity. Wearing two reinforces this symbolism, emphasizing the importance of precision and reliability in pushing the boundaries of human endeavor. The sight of these iconic timepieces against the backdrop of the vast cosmos created a powerful visual narrative, seamlessly blending past achievements with future aspirations.
Exploring the Shades of Blue: A Spectrum of Speedmaster Models
The exact models worn by the Blue Origin crew haven't been publicly confirmed in detail, leaving room for speculation amongst watch enthusiasts. However, the prevalence of "blue" in various Speedmaster models offers a compelling avenue for exploring the potential candidates. Let's delve into some of the key models that fall under the umbrella of "blue" Omega Speedmasters:
1. Omega Speedmaster Blue Side: This refers to models featuring a blue dial, bezel, or strap, often in combination. The variations are vast, ranging from subtle hints of blue to vibrant, eye-catching designs. The use of blue can signify different things, from a subtle nod to the vastness of space to a more modern, sporty aesthetic. Many enthusiasts appreciate the versatility of this color, making it suitable for both formal and informal occasions.
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