60s Seamaster Authenticity Check

JwRosenthal

And just to make a point about the cost of servicing and getting in deep:
I bought a lovely late 60’s ladies Seamaster for my Lady. The price was fair for $250, with integrated bracelet in very nice cosmetic shape. Little did I know that there had been a leak in the case and although running, parts were rusty. I had to source a complete parts movement, and the balance assembly was screwed in that, so has to then buy another balance assembly- which although it was “supposed” to be from the same movement- wasn’t, but parts were able to be swapped and $300 later that watch is spectacular- and she loves it. So I have $550 into a watch I would be lucky to sell for $300, but she loves it- and that’s all that matters- money well spent.

SkunkPrince

Right. If you're planning to wear it and keep it "forever", servicing is just a fact of life, like tires and oil for your car.

JwRosenthal

Agreed! If you find it cosmetically attractive (Fred is still trying to find a napkin), then $450 is not bad for a strait case original Seamaster(although I don’t know about the crown but that should be replaced during a service anyway to ensure water tightness) And even if it were pristine it would still need the same service.

JwRosenthal

Keep your eye on the classified’s here. These 60’s Seamaster’s pop up all the time- with and without patina. You may pay a premium for them but they are generally well cared for and often recently (within 5 years) serviced.