The Omega Speedmaster Professional, particularly the iconic reference 145.022, is a watch steeped in history and legend. Its association with NASA and the Apollo missions cemented its place in horological history, but beyond the robust movement and enduring design, a subtle yet significant detail often sparks passionate debate among collectors: the lume. The luminescent material used on the dial and hands, responsible for illuminating the watch in low-light conditions, varies considerably across different production runs and even individual pieces, leading to a fascinating, and sometimes frustrating, exploration of its characteristics. This article delves into the world of Omega Speedmaster lume, focusing on the nuances of its application, the perceived quality variations, and the often-subjective opinions surrounding its performance.
The Speedmaster 145.022, a reference frequently discussed in conversations about lume, presents a particularly interesting case study. This model, produced from 1968 to 1979, saw a gradual evolution in its construction and materials, including the lume. The early examples often boast a brighter, more vibrant lume, while later pieces, as production techniques evolved, sometimes exhibited a less intense glow. This variation is one of the key factors contributing to the ongoing discussions surrounding Speedmaster lume quality. One collector, referring to their previous 145.022 (now owned by someone known as "Mad Dog"), described the lume as a "very pale lime green," a description that highlights the subtle differences that can exist. This pale lime green, while not lacking in character, is a far cry from the brighter, more intense green lume found in some earlier models or even in other Speedmaster references. It's important to note that the perception of "pale" is subjective, and what one collector considers pale, another might see as perfectly acceptable.
The description of the lume as "like neon green" is a stark contrast to the "pale lime green" mentioned previously, illustrating the wide range of lume characteristics encountered within the Speedmaster lineage. This highlights the challenges in objectively assessing lume quality; what constitutes "good" or "bad" lume is ultimately a matter of personal preference and expectations. The age of the watch, the exposure to light over time, and even the storage conditions can significantly impact the lume's performance, making direct comparisons between different pieces difficult.
Bad Lume on Speedmaster: Myth or Reality?
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