OMEGA FOIS Review - A Space Legend Redefined

The Omega First Omega in Space, or FOIS, occupies a special place in the Speedmaster story. It is a watch that connects directly to one of the earliest milestones in human spaceflight. In 1962, astronaut Wally Schirra wore a Speedmaster CK 2998 during the Mercury-Atlas 8 mission. This was the first Omega to orbit the Earth and it established a legacy that would lead to the Speedmaster becoming the official watch of NASA astronauts.

The 2024 FOIS release revisits that history with careful attention to detail. It captures the aesthetic of the original while incorporating the brand’s latest movement technology. This new version is part of the regular collection, making it a significant addition to the modern Speedmaster lineup.

Case and Dimensions

The stainless steel case measures 39.7 millimeters in diameter, giving it proportions faithful to the CK 2998. The lug-to-lug length is 48 millimeters, which allows the watch to sit comfortably on a wide range of wrist sizes. The straight lugs and absence of crown guards preserve the early Speedmaster silhouette. The finishing is predominantly brushed with polished bevels along the lugs, a detail that catches light without overwhelming the design.

The watch is 13.4 millimeters thick, aided by the use of a domed sapphire crystal. This crystal has been designed to replicate the look of Hesalite while providing modern scratch resistance. The caseback is solid steel and features engraved text referencing the original 1962 mission along with the classic Omega seahorse medallion.

Dial and Bezel

The dial is a sunray-brushed gray-blue tone that appears dark in low light but reveals depth and character under brighter conditions. It has a stepped profile and features an applied Omega logo, a design element that recalls the early references. The subdials are slightly recessed, giving the chronograph display definition without disrupting legibility.

The hour and minute hands are alpha-style with a polished finish and luminous fill. The subdial hands are leaf-shaped and the central chronograph seconds hand is a straight design with a counterweight. The luminous material is a cream tone that complements the vintage aesthetic while providing visibility in the dark.

Surrounding the dial is a black aluminium tachymeter bezel with a dot over ninety and a diagonal seventy, both of which are details found on vintage Speedmasters. The thin bezel frame helps keep the overall appearance true to the original proportions.

Movement and Performance

Inside the 2024 FOIS is the Omega calibre 3861. This is a manual-wind chronograph movement with a co-axial escapement and a silicon balance spring. It is resistant to magnetic fields up to 15,000 gauss and has been certified as a Master Chronometer by METAS. The movement has a power reserve of approximately 50 hours and runs at 21,600 vibrations per hour.

The calibre 3861 builds on the lineage of the calibre 861 and 1861 while introducing modern materials and enhanced precision. Winding the watch each day connects the wearer to the same tactile experience that astronauts had when preparing their Speedmasters for flight.

Bracelet and Straps

For the first time in the FOIS line, a matching stainless steel bracelet is available. It is a flat-link design with brushed center links, polished outer links, and a folding clasp with micro-adjustment. The bracelet tapers for comfort and carries the same period-inspired character as the rest of the watch.

The FOIS is also offered on leather straps. These straps feature a tang buckle and can be easily changed for a different look, whether for formal wear or casual use. The versatility of the FOIS means it can move between daily wear, special occasions, and collector display without compromise.

Collecting and Legacy

The First Omega in Space is more than a Speedmaster variant. It is a direct connection to the era of pioneering space missions and to one of the most important watches in Omega’s history. The 2024 model strengthens that connection by retaining historically correct proportions and details while delivering modern performance standards.

For enthusiasts who value history, design authenticity, and mechanical watchmaking, the FOIS represents a well-rounded choice. It bridges the gap between vintage charm and contemporary capability, and it does so with the kind of thoughtful execution that has made the Speedmaster an enduring icon.

The 2024 FOIS will likely appeal to both new collectors discovering the Speedmaster family and seasoned enthusiasts who appreciate the significance of the CK 2998 in Omega’s story. It is a watch that wears its history proudly while performing to the standards expected of a modern professional chronograph.