The Ultimate Omega Speedmaster Snoopy Guide

What is the Silver Snoopy Award?

The Silver Snoopy Award is a special recognition given by NASA astronauts to the agency’s staff and partners, to honor their achievements in mission success or ensuring flight safety. Less than 1% of the space program workforce receives it annually, making it a special honor.

Why did NASA choose Snoopy as the mascot, you ask? In the 1960s, Charles M. Schultz’s Peanuts characters, Snoopy in particular, were highly popular. NASA sought a widely recognized and well-loved symbol for the award, so that employees and contractors can feel their impact on the space missions’ success.

Omega was given the Silver Snoopy Award on October 5th 1970, in recognition of the Speedmaster’s vital support during the rescue of Apollo 13.

The Apollo 13 encountered an oxygen tank explosion a few days into the flight, which led to severe spacecraft damage. The crew relied on the Speedy to calculate elapsed times of the engine burn, allowing their safe return to the Earth.

Omega Speedmaster Snoopy Editions Through the Years

To commemorate its association with NASA and the Silver Snoopy Award it received, special edition Omega Speedmaster models have been created by Omega throughout the years. These watches are highly collectible and sought after due to their unique designs and their connection to space exploration history. 

Omega Speedmaster Professional “Snoopy Award” (Reference 3578.51.00)

The Omega Speedmaster Professional “Snoopy Award” ref 3578.51.00 is a highly celebrated timepiece with rich historical significance. This watch commemorates the Silver Snoopy Award presented to Omega by NASA in 1970, an accolade in recognition of the crucial role the Omega Speedmaster played in the safe return of the Apollo 13 crew. The Apollo 13 mission experienced a critical failure when an oxygen tank exploded, but the astronauts managed to safely navigate back to Earth, thanks in part to their Speedmaster watches, which were used to time key maneuvers.

The ref 3578.51.00, released in 2003, proudly features Snoopy, the beloved cartoon character, on the dial and case back. The dial is distinct with its small Snoopy in an astronaut suit illustration in the sub-dial at the 9 o’clock position, coupled with the phrase “Eyes on the Stars”, making it stand out among other Speedmaster models. Meanwhile, the case back showcases a larger colorful image of Snoopy alongside the words, “Snoopy Award” and “Omega Speedmaster Professional”. This special edition is housed in a robust 42mm stainless steel case, maintaining the classic Speedmaster design complete with a black tachymeter bezel and Hesalite crystal.

Under the watch’s hood runs the legendary Omega Caliber 1861, a manual-winding chronograph movement, renowned for its precision and reliability, echoing the tradition of the Moonwatch lineage. With a limited production run of 5,441 pieces, the Speedmaster Professional “Snoopy Award” ref 3578.51.00 is both a collector’s piece and a symbol of human ingenuity and resilience, firmly etching its place in horological history.

Omega Speedmaster Professional “Silver Snoopy Award” (Reference 311.32.42.30.04.003)

The Omega Speedmaster Professional “Silver Snoopy Award” ref 311.32.42.30.04.00 is another distinguished watch that pays homage to Omega’s illustrious relationship with NASA and, more specifically, their contribution to the Apollo 13 mission. In 1970, Omega received the Silver Snoopy Award, a prestigious honor given by NASA astronauts to individuals and companies for outstanding achievements related to mission success and human flight safety. This edition, limited to 1,970 pieces, was launched in 2015 to commemorate the 45th anniversary of the Apollo 13 mission and the award itself.

A standout feature of this watch is its white dial contrasted by the black sub-dials and a Snoopy cartoon lying on his doghouse at 9 o’clock, symbolizing the mascot’s watchful presence. A unique addition is the speech bubble next to Snoopy quoting “Failure is not an option,” a nod to the famous line associated with the mission’s successful return. The case back is a true work of art, depicting a sterling silver medallion of Snoopy wearing his spacesuit, rendered in stunning detail and surrounded by dark blue enamel sprinkled with silver powder to mimic the appearance of the night sky.

Encased in a 42mm stainless steel case, this model retains the classic Speedmaster design elements, such as the black ceramic bezel with a tachymeter scale and a Hesalite crystal reminiscent of the original Moonwatch. Inside beats the Omega Caliber 1861, a manual-winding chronograph movement well-regarded for its resilience and lineage dating back to the Speedmaster used during the Apollo missions. Accompanied by a special presentation box and a certificate of Best Quality ity, the Speedmaster Professional “Silver Snoopy Award” ref 311.32.42.30.04.00 is not just a functional timepiece but a symbol of historical significance and exemplary watchmaking craftsmanship.

Omega Speedmaster “Silver Snoopy Award” 50th Anniversary (Reference 310.32.42.50.02.001)

The Omega Speedmaster “Silver Snoopy Award” 50th Anniversary ref 310.32.42.50.02.001 commemorates the 50th anniversary of Omega receiving the Silver Snoopy Award from NASA in 1970. Launched in 2020, this watch also highlights the enduring relationship between Omega and space exploration, celebrating one of the most iconic moments in both watchmaking and space history.

This special edition timepiece is distinguished by its unique blue and silver color scheme. The silver dial features charming blue accents, including the sub-dials, hour markers, and the hands. At the 9 o’clock position, an embossed silver Snoopy wearing his spacesuit is prominently displayed, adding an element of playful historical significance. The case back is also as equally striking as it showcases an animated depiction of Snoopy traveling through space, set against a backdrop of stars. Utilizing a groundbreaking technique, the character in his Command and Service Module (CSM), appears to float around the case back whenever the chronograph function is activated, while an Earth disc rotates in the background.

Encased in a 42mm stainless steel case, the watch also features a blue nylon fabric strap, reflecting a contemporary yet classic aesthetic. The tachymeter bezel, rendered in blue ceramic with white enamel markings, complements the overall design. Powering this significant timepiece is the Master Chronometer Caliber 3861, an upgraded movement that provides enhanced precision, reliability, and magnetic resistance, while still maintaining the manual-winding charm of its predecessors. Ultimately, the Speedmaster “Silver Snoopy Award” 50th Anniversary ref 310.32.42.50.02.001 is a collector’s dream, blending historical reverence with innovative watchmaking.

Final Thoughts

These Omega Speedmaster “Silver Snoopy Award” watches stand as an epitome of horological excellence, seamlessly blending a rich historical legacy with cutting-edge innovation. They ar celebratory artifacts of Omega’s pivotal role in the success of the Apollo missions, especially commemorating the heroic story of Apollo 13. 

With their unique designs, incorporating whimsical yet meaningful Snoopy motifs, and their advanced technological features, these watches hold a special place in the hearts of both watch aficionados and space exploration enthusiasts. 

For those eager to experience this storied tradition, Buy Best Quality Watches offers an impressive collection of Omega Speedmaster watches, including these highly coveted “Silver Snoopy Award” editions. Our curated selection ensures that collectors and enthusiasts alike can find a timepiece that not only tells time but also tells a story—one of precision, adventure, and the timeless quest for excellence.