1978 Omega Speedmaster Professional Ref. ST 145.022-78 "Transitional Step Dial" & Long S/R

The reference 145.022-78 is the ultimate "Transitional" Speedmaster. It captures the very end of the vintage era, retaining the depth and soul of the 1960s while housing the robust, copper-finished Calibre 861 movement. This specific example is a "collector’s checklist" watch, featuring every nuance that makes the late 70s reference a cult favorite.

The Nitty Gritty:

This dial is a masterpiece of depth. It features the "Step Dial" (or Pie-Pan) where the minute track is physically recessed below the center of the dial—a feature Omega phased out shortly after this production run. Look closer at the typography: it features the rare "Long S" and "Long R," a printing variation highly prized for its vintage aesthetic. And yes, for the enthusiasts, it features the infamous "C*ck & Balls" index at 12 o’clock.

The watch remains 100% honest. The original tritium lume has aged to a perfect creamy parchment. It comes mounted on its original, period-correct 1171 bracelet with 633 end links—the "holy grail" of Speedmaster bracelets known for its unrivaled comfort and classic "rattle."

Key Features:

• Reference: ST 145.022-78 (Correctly marked internally with the "ST" steel designation).

• Case: 42mm Stainless Steel, sharp lyre lugs.

• Dial: Original Step Dial with Long S/R and Tritium indices.

• Movement: Calibre 861 (Manual Wind) with correct copper finish. Serial 44.81x,xxx.

• Bracelet: Original 1171 with 633 End Links.

• Condition: Excellent vintage condition. Bezel is original with light character marks. The movement is clean and running strong. Minor lume loss on the chronograph hand preserves the watch's un-serviced, original state.