Mercury and Gemini astronaut Gordon Cooper’s personal Omega Seamaster automatic wristwatch purchased by him in 1950 and worn continuously through the 1950’s, flying with the Air Force and then with NASA until issued the Omega Speedmaster. Stainless steel head with original silvered dial, Omega caliber 351 17 jewel bumper-type automatic movement in rose-tone gilding, serial number 12864146, “Staybrite” steel screwed case-back with reference C2577-2, crown with Omega logo, with generic expansion bracelet. The watch is accompanied with a letter from Gordon Cooper on his letterhead confirming purchase while assigned to the 525th Bomber Squadron at Neubiberg AFB in Munich, his subsequent use of the watch, and its flawless functioning during that period. In good running order, bright clean plates and bumper with a few fine scratches from servicing, minor rust on the stem near the crown internally as is typical for this water resistant crown type, original dial with lightly mottled speckle overall to the central area with some speckle to the outer chapter, original hands with light oxide overall, acrylic crystal with small fracture at 9, case showing light even wear overall with very few nicks, some very fine scratches, good polish to the case-back but some scratches at center, light wear to the crown, the expansion strap broken at one link and missing an end-cap with case contour fit. The head is in very presentable condition given its extensive use by this historic personage, and would only require a new strap for immediate wear. Consignor notes that watch was recently serviced by a master watch repairman on the west coast. RRAuction COA.
