A look at a 145.012 speedmaster on auction

This popped into my feed, I am sure many have seen it, and although the auction is in the future, discussing it now will not in my opinion be bad for a potential buyer

https://live.skinnerinc.com/lots/vi...ster-professional-reference-145012-wristwatch




What we are offered is a 145.012-67 with service papers from Omega NY and some parts for a low estimate of $6,000.

The first thing to note is that the DO90 bezel is present and the dial is also original.

The second obvious issue is the service bracelet.

Always when looking at a speedmaster with any issues (which most of them do) we have to look at price, or value. This watch is being offered at an estimate of $6,000- 8,000. We have to add 25% so 7500 to 10,000.

So now I look to see if there is anything that would stop me buying at this level.


The above photo is not flattering, and I am convinced it could look better with a better lighting. However it does show decayed plots (algae). The hands have been replaced and don’t look right, too white.

The one thing I can say is that it is not an exiting or attractive watch in the way that would make one rush to buy it, but at the right price it could be. We could repaint the hands and that would make a big difference, and remove the incorrect bracelet.

BUT...let’s review the service invoice, there is a lot in there.


There is a wealth of information on that paper, and a big red flag because it mentions that an extract is not possible. So what we have to assume is that the movement is not original to a speedmaster. This knocks the value hard.

The bent case back mid corroded case don’t help.

In today’s market a $7500 for a 145.012 is something to look at, but I think knowing the extract is unavailable, combined with the decayed dial, corroded case and bent case back this watch will struggle to find a buyer.

and I have not even mentioned the dust cover...



love to hear what people think.

I agree w/your sentiment above, SF. To me, the first thing that stands out is the dial, it's not attractive, then the hands and lastly, the case, which has also been poorly polished. But, as you mention, there is a price for everything. If this was being offered for $5K, I'd definitely think about it to use as a beater watch.

Thanks again for your thoughtful write-up.

The moment it became clear that the movement in this relatively easy to find and common watch didn't start out in the case then it would be immediately discarded from any kind of further consideration.

The only exception would be if it were dirt cheap, and by that I mean at least 20% under market as parts.

Interesting that the plots are darker at the top, and gradually morph to beige at the bottom. As if there was some sort of asymmetrical exposure to the elements.

You are becoming cheap my friend 😁

The movement swap would kill it for me. Not really impressed with the overall condition of the watch either.

Just figuring out how much a 20% margin on a good DON will contribute towards the 33.3...😗