Today (April 12, 2011) is the 50th anniversary of the first space flight by Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space. In 1992 Swatch released this watch, designed by Italian comic artist Igor Tuveri  to commemorate the 30th anniversary (although it was released a year late)

The first Swatch, Jelly, was released in late 1982, sold for $50 and was an instant success. Swatch was designed as a throw away fashion accessory in ever-changing designs and colours although the watch itself was only available in two style, large and small.  The only parts that could be changed was the strap and the battery.  The watch was impossible to open, not even the glass was removable so no repairs could be undertaken eliminating the responsibility of supplying spare parts.

Such was the success that this brand saved the entire Swiss watch industry that at the time was virtually bankrupt. Soon most major names were gobbled up by the Swatch conglomerate including Omega, Tissot, Longines……..and lots more