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145.022-69ST All original?

R
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Hi,

New to the forum (and the Omega world) and am hoping for some insight on what I think is a 1969 Transitional. In doing a quick search based on the serial number it would appear the watch was likely produced in 1969. What is throwing me a bit is it has an applied Omega dial but a non-DON bezel. In reading what I could find online it seems this is possible, but this dial/bezel combination combined with the 1969 production date would be unusual? I would have to figure the dial as original but perhaps the bezel a replacement?

Any insight would be appreciated as the seller is asking for a premium based on all original condition!
 
Dan S
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Based on what you have told us, the watch sounds put together, and not just the bezel. Please post the first few digits of the serial number. Photos would also be helpful, including of the inside of the case-back.
 
Davidt
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An applied logo dial should have a DoN bezel but you’re going to have to post pictures for any more meaningful replies.
 
Dan S
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Davidt Davidt
An applied logo dial should have a DoN bezel ...
And a -68 caseback.
 
Davidt
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Dan S Dan S
And a -68 caseback.

Absolutely. Although I’m wondering if the OP is getting the ‘69’ from the serial rather than the caseback. Either way, pics are needed.
 
Dan S
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Davidt Davidt
Absolutely. Although I’m wondering if the OP is getting the ‘69’ from the serial rather than the caseback. Either way, pics are needed.
I don't know where the information is coming from, but the thread title sounds like a case-back: "145.022-69ST"
 
R
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Just got an updated batch of photos from the seller (attached). To further deepen the mystery/raise my level of questioning the 1039 bracelet has a 2/70 date. I've run the serial number on ilovemyspeedmaster and it shows likely production of 7/69 (which given the 277 prefix would seem to make sense). I can almost talk myself into it's a late Transition model using an applied dial and a mid 1969 non DON bezel, but when I see a bracelet with a date six months after the estimated production date I start to conclude it's probably a Transition movement/dial with replacement parts. I still think it's a good looking piece but am not sure if it's worth going after. If I'm correct about the replacement parts (which I suspect can't be proven one way or the other) how much of an impact does it likely have on the value (estimated at $7800 for a Transition in very good condition at ilovemyspeedmaster)?

IMG_3187.webp IMG_3189.webp IMG_3185.webp
 
Davidt
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It’s extremely likely that it’s a -68 transitional with a replaced caseback and bezel. The bracelet is often dated 6-18 months after the production of the watch so that doesn’t concern me too much.

I’d want a decent discount for the wrong bezel and caseback though as the ones you have are not a straight swap for the ones you need.
 
R
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What (if anything) would you make of the estimated production date of 7/69 from ilovemyspeedmaster? I've read conflicting articles relating to the possibility of a Transition model having a -69 caseback. Safe to assume you fall on the side of it's got to be a -68 caseback if it's a Transitional?
 
Davidt
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I don’t think there’s any credible evidence to suggest any -69’s originally came with applied logo (transitional) dials.
 
padders
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Talk yourself into what you like mate, but bring that on here and we are going to call it a Franken so it’s up to you really. There are features there that can not have left the factory that way, no matter how creative you get.

ps the bracelet is utterly irrelevant since they were usually added either at point of sale or later. They mean nothing with respect to dating the head.

pps I could accept a 145.022-68 being on an extract as being produced in early 1969. But not like you describe above.
Edited:
 
Spacefruit
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Remember as this is not an original watch, any values you find will not be relevant.

With a watch like this, I would want to delve quite deep. For example I would go as far as checking the dial is a cal 861.

Discrepancies like this watch shows often mask a much greater deviation from original than one initially sees.
 
ATWG
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I’d walk away from this watch, too many discrepancies to justify the time and effort and absurd price. Additionally, there appears to be missing tritium on some of the markers and looks like it will need service to fix the chrono creep as evident on the sub register.

If you’re really interested in purchasing an honest 68 or 69, I suggest periodically checking the FS section on OF. They come up on a regular basis from fellow collectors that are not in the business of turning a profit. There is always risk buying from dealers who dress up watches for a quick buck.

Happy hunting.
 
boogedyboo
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Bezel would be relatively easier to replace but much tougher to find the correct -68 caseback for this.
 
Dan S
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I think the OP is very confused and does not realize that transitional -69 references are not known. They do not exist to anyone’s knowledge. He is focusing on things that do not matter, like the production date and bracelet, and ignoring the obvious facts that the movement, dial, caseback, and bezel do not match. It’s just a blatantly obvious put together watch, plain and simple.

Just walk away and spend more time studying. A year or two from now you will laugh at this thread.
 
R
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Dan,

Thank you for helping pull my head out of my tail . . . Your note broke whatever spell that watch had over me. Well summarized. I'll keep educating myself as I go on the hunt for one that is properly put together. Thanks for the wake up!!
 
impaw
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Good call😀
And good luck with the hunt
 
pdxleaf
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Have a look at this:

https://omegaforums.net/threads/omega-145-022-69st-w-1039-516-pre-moon-price-lowered-again.177068/ Cover Image
Thread 'Omega 145.022 69ST w/1039/516 "Pre-Moon" - Price Lowered Again' ·
I have a 145.022-69ST pre-Moon for sale. I bought it in 2012 and it seemed all original. Archer serviced it shortly after I bought it and replaced the crown and got it running perfectly. I've worn...
SOLD
$ 6000 USD
josiahg52 ·
 
R
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I looked at that listing a few days ago. Really like the watch, and the seller seems pretty transparent. My issue is I want a 1969 production. The likely production of this serial number is well into 1970. As such the search will continue.

Any thoughts on what a replacement crown or pushers does to value?

I'm suspecting little to nothing but would be interested in opinions.
 
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