1969 Speedmaster Mark II - To be or Not to be?

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Hi everyone - I’ve always wanted a classic, manual wind Speedmaster and can appreciate the chunkier Mark II (model 145.014 861). This model will probably get up to at least $1800. Can the experts weigh in and tell me if this is a good model in which to invest? Or given the pics/ specs, should I keep looking? Thanks so much!
 
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FWIW the bezel is askew.

looks honest enough, though you'd have another $500+ in a service.
 
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I'd keep looking. (1) there are hints in the second photo that the case is over-polished. (2) The "bezel" is printed on the crystal on these watches, and it's not a good sign to see one rotated that far off.
 
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I sold one several years ago that had a 277 serial. I ordered the Extract and it was August of 1969.
 
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Needs much better photos and from different angles to see if it's been overpolished. Certainly be patient to get a good one.

As for whether it's a good model to invest in? They've been undervalued for a very long time, the most undervalued Speedmaster imo, but I have noticed they are finally creeping up(I doubt they'll ever go climb too high tbh). The style isn't for everyone but I absolutely love mine and unlike the moonwatch you'll rarely if ever see another in the wild.

Good luck.
 
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If the bezel is off maybe I should keep looking. Thanks everyone!
 
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Depends on why you want it. If you want a Mark II to wear, then that one will work (provided you plan and budget to do a service immediately); the bezel will get fixed during the service. If you want a collector’s version in perfect shape as a monetary investment, then skip this one — but also plan to spend a lot more than $1800 for one.
 
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Here's a thread that may be of interest - a MkII that sold earlier this year in the UK for £1900 plus commission of 30%.

https://omegaforums.net/threads/mk-ii-speedmaster-surprising-hammer-price-£1900.125286/#post-1691471

I was surprised at the price, but some pointed out that unmolested 'barn find' examples are what collectors are after. Prices for Mk II's do seem erratic, so as others have commented, to treat these as investments, you'd need to be in for the long haul I think.
 
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I have owned a few MKiis, like 'em. Now have just the one, a nice one owner racing dial from 1970. Kept this because it is unpolished, unmolested and first serviced in my ownership, not mint but the best I have owned. I do not think however I would ever consider it an investment, just a watch I can wear regularly, derive pleasure from wearing and not lose sleep over the odd knock.
And, as above, they really do not turn up very often on other people's wrists.
 
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Haha - okay - using the word "invest" has prompted almost more response than the watch itself. To be clear, I use the word invest only to mean spending (significant) money. I'm not buying vintage watches to make money - just love exploring and researching these classic works of art for your wrist. 😉
 
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I have owned a few MKiis, like 'em. Now have just the one, a nice one owner racing dial from 1970. Kept this because it is unpolished, unmolested and first serviced in my ownership, not mint but the best I have owned. I do not think however I would ever consider it an investment, just a watch I can wear regularly, derive pleasure from wearing and not lose sleep over the odd knock.
And, as above, they really do not turn up very often on other people's wrists.
Sounds like a great example - be great to see a pic
 
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Haha - okay - using the word "invest" has prompted almost more response than the watch itself. To be clear, I use the word invest only to mean spending (significant) money. I'm not buying vintage watches to make money - just love exploring and researching these classic works of art for your wrist. 😉
well said1
 
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Haha - okay - using the word "invest" has prompted almost more response than the watch itself. To be clear, I use the word invest only to mean spending (significant) money. I'm not buying vintage watches to make money - just love exploring and researching these classic works of art for your wrist. 😉

In that case, if you like the style then hell yes! Mines away being serviced and professionally refinished at the moment and I'm missing it terribly! It's the only chronograph in my collection and I don't feel the need for another.
 
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Sounds like a great example - be great to see a pic

Here you go. As I said, ain't mint but ticks all my boxes as a regular vintage wearer.
There are too many over polished MKiis out there and my advice to the OP, speaking from expensive personal experience, is to bide your time and buy the best watch you can find, that way you only need to do it once 😬
Edited:
 
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Here you go. As I said, ain't mint but ticks all my boxes as a regular vintage wearer.
There are too many over polished MKiis out there and my advice to the OP, speaking from expensive personal experience, is to bide your time and buy the best watch you can find, that way you only need to do it once 😬
@Tonyash thanks for posting that pic - I agree with your comment about the over polished cases. With the sunburst finishing on the case (as with yours) and correct bracelet these are a fantastic design. With the racing dial - its knockout. A statement piece.
 
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@Tonyash thanks for posting that pic - I agree with your comment about the over polished cases. With the sunburst finishing on the case (as with yours) and correct bracelet these are a fantastic design. With the racing dial - its knockout. A statement piece.

Thanks, agree the bracelet is an important factor on these, never really gelled with a MKii on strap.. I have had MKiis on several different Omega bracelets over the years but the 1162, as on mine, is far and away my favourite. The taper is awesome.