Were any changes in the Speedmaster (related either to comfort or engineering requirements) mandated by NASA?
No, NASA never mandated any changes to Omega. However, the first chronographs that NASA bought were model 6049 (USA designation). These were to be used for the Gemini program. I found during crew usage for training and flight that it was very easy to bend or break the chronograph function buttons on the side. The case did not provide any protection for them. I asked Omega to consider redesigning the case to provide a little recess to better protect these buttons. Omega willingly redesigned the case and this configuration became the new version of the chronograph. It has the exact same movement – just a different case. This model was designated 6126 (USA designation). The model 6049 was used throughout Gemini and I started using the model 6126 model for Apollo and beyond. The Omega Speedmaster X-33 was created in such a way that it could be handled by astronauts wearing their bulky gloves. Was it also possible to manipulate the Speedmaster Professional with gloves? Yes the crew was able
