The “NASA Watch” Worn By The Whole Artemis II Crew: AAA Replica Omega Speedmaster X-33 2nd Generation Watches UK

The “NASA Watch” Worn By The Whole Artemis II Crew: AAA Replica Omega Speedmaster X-33 2nd Generation Watches UK

James Walker0

The Omega Speedmaster Professional ref. 105.003 became the first ever NASA Flight-Qualified watch in 1965, as you have probably heard if you’re into watches. Less hyped, though, is the digital function-packed Omega Speedmaster X-33 that has been NASA Flight-Qualified since 1998. An official US government document from 2013 even called it “the watch of choice for U.S. astronauts,” so it was unsurprising to see the X-33 on the wrists (well, forearms) of all four astronauts of the Artemis II mission as they prepared for launch on April 1, 2026. Commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, and mission specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen were all wearing second-generation best replica Omega Speedmaster Professional X-33 watches, presumably ref. 318.92.42.79.01.001.


The Speedmaster X-33 “NASA Watch” in Context
The X-33 is best selling Omega copy watches’ “ana-digi” version of the Speedmaster Professional. That means it’s a quartz-powered watch with digital features and displays, and also traditional analog hands. Specifically, its movement is the Omega Caliber 1666, based on the ETA E20.321 but with added features such as a “Mission Timer.” Astronauts apparently really do make regular use of the numerous features of the X-33, like a chronograph and a countdown timer that can be run concurrently, a repeating daily alarm, a one-time alarm set to UTC, plus a separate alarm feature that can be set to a certain elapsed time on the Mission Timer.

In addition to being Flight-Qualified by NASA, the perfect replica Omega X-33 watches made their world debut at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, on March 28, 1998, in concert with a live satellite uplink to the Russian Mir space station. But its shiny bezel and pushers weren’t ideal for astronauts, who are keen to avoid the glare of unattenuated sunlight reflecting back at them.

So, second-generation Omega X-33’s debuted in the early 2000s with fully brushed surfaces. In addition to the grooves of the crown being tweaked (collectors call it a “honey dipper” crown), the caseback was also updated with an engraving to celebrate its NASA status: “Flight-Qualified by NASA for Space Missions.” The second-gen X-33 remains the de facto “NASA Watch” to this day.

Note that traditional mechanical AAA fake Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch watches say “Flight Qualified by NASA for All Manned Space Missions.” The “all manned” part was dropped for the X-33 because technically, the X-33 hasn’t been qualified for spacewalks. Its NASA qualification only pertains to remaining inside the spacecraft. That’s presumably because LCD screens, and batteries in general, would be hard-pressed to handle the ludicrous temperature swings of open space.

Replica Omega watches UK stopped selling the second-generation Speedmaster X-33 to the public around 2006, and the third-generation Speedmaster X-33 “Skywalker” has never been qualified by NASA for whatever reason. Neither has the fourth-generation X-33 “Marstimer.”

Those newer X-33’s have multiple horizontal screens with light-on-black text displaying the data, as opposed to the concentric black text display of the first two generations. The Skywalker and Marstimer casebacks also boast about certification by the ESA (European Space Agency) in lieu of NASA bona fides.

Strap
The Artemis II astronauts all wore what appeared to be black calf-lined kevlar straps on their AAA clone Omega Speedmaster X-33’s, with extenders so they could cover their spacesuits.

What’s interesting is that there is no velcro involved on the top fake Omega watches of the Artemis II crew–just a classic, simple pin buckle.

Astronauts have often used velcro strap closures, dating back to Ed White when he did the first-ever American spacewalk in 1965. But apparently a simple tang (pin) buckle works just fine. The longevity and ubiquity of the tang buckle really is remarkable.

James Walker writes about Omega watches with a particular interest in the designs that have shaped the brand over the years, from the Speedmaster and Seamaster to less familiar references that deserve a closer look. For OmegaServiceUK, he focuses on how original Omega models influence today's replica watch market in the UK. His articles look beyond model names and specifications, paying attention to practical details such as case proportions, dial layout, bezels, bracelets, movements and the small differences that can change how convincing a replica feels on the wrist. James also enjoys revisiting older Omega references from the 1980s, 1990s and early 2000s, comparing their design character with newer releases. His aim is to give readers straightforward information that helps them understand the watch behind the replica rather than relying on vague labels such as “AAA” or “1:1 quality”. When writing for the site, he takes a measured approach and clearly separates authentic Omega specifications from the features found on replica versions. This helps UK readers make more informed comparisons while exploring Speedmaster, Seamaster and other Omega inspired watches.

Related Posts