The OMEGA Speedmaster Professional Gemini IV is a prime example of what collectors often refer to as a "sleeper" limited edition. The watch's deep blue dial, paired with silvery-white subdials, gives it a distinctive "blue Panda" appearance, a rare and captivating combination both on the wrist and in the watch world. The Gemini IV mission, which took place from June 3 to June 7, 1965, was the second crewed mission of NASA's Gemini program. It featured astronauts James McDivitt and Edward White and included a 98-hour flight that encompassed 62 orbits around the Earth. Most notably, it marked a historic moment in space exploration: the first American spacewalk, performed by Edward White. This spacewalk also marked the first time an OMEGA Speedmaster ventured outside a spacecraft, strapped securely to White's wrist. Unlike other Speedmaster models that feature the famous "The First Watch Worn on the Moon" engraving, this Gemini IV 40th Anniversary Limited Edition has a sapphire caseback that proudly displays the mission patch, symbolizing the historic first American spacewalk. Interestingly, the tradition of astronauts designing mission patches began with the Gemini V mission, making the inclusion of the Gemini IV patch a meaningful nod to this early era of space exploration. Inside the watch, the calibre 1861 powers the timepiece, an evolution of the calibre 861 used in previous Moonwatch models. For this upgrade, the movement was enhanced with corrosion-resistant rhodium plating, ensuring greater longevity and durability. This limited edition Speedmaster was produced in only 2,005 pieces, a number that mirrors the year of its release. The watch’s blue dial, matching blue bezel, and the Gemini IV patch on the caseback make it not just a timepiece, but a celebration of a milestone in human space exploration. Today, the Speedmaster Professional Gemini IV is cherished by collectors and enthusiasts alike, a testament to its enduring appeal and the rich history it represents. PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL OUR WATCHES ARE CAREFULLY SERVICED BY OUR 13 WATCHMAKERS. The service includes movement cleaning in special equipment, oiling and accuracy adjustment. After service we check accuracy of all watches on the Timegrapher and make 48 hours test on the Cyclotest. Watch is selling from private collection of our company owner. * All our watches are 100% original; * No customs taxes for EU buyers; * 0% VAT for EU buyers; * 24 - 48 hours insured shipping via DHL Express; * All the watches are our own and available in stock; * Every watch goes with our own certificate of origin; * 14 days full refund policy. Case No: 7713XXXX Dimensions: 42mm (1,65 inch) stainless steel case excluding the crown; Dial: Original blue dial; Bracelet: The watch is presented on an original "Omega" stainless steel bracelet around 20,5 cm including the watch case, with “Omega” logo clasp. Others: With original "Omega" box and papers. It is a perfect addition to your watch collection. You can also use these wonderful watches as a gift to your friends. The watch will be carefully packed and shipped highly insured. Please look at the pictures carefully as they form an integral part of the description. Any defects not mentioned but visible in the pictures will be considered as described. Please, note that all our photos are not retouched and we don't use photoshop in order to make the watch look better. Any questions, please ask. Good luck and thank you for looking.