Advice Regarding Two Seamaster 300 Watches

MyVintageOmega

Number 1..........was discussed here on forum...... http://omegaforums.net/threads/is-this-sm-300-with-big-triangle-date-clean.3477/#post-39960

hxw

Hello all,

I have decided to purchase a vintage (or nos) Seamaster 300. I have been looking for a while, and I had originally decided to purchase a NOS/WatchCo version of the watch - but I was late to the party on all the listings I came across. A few days ago, I came across a vintage Seamaster 300 - and I would love to get any input from the experts here, before I make my decision. I have stared at the images of the watch for some time now, and I find the watch to be authentic - but with a possible relume.

Information I have about the watch in question:
- Judging by the serial numbers (and information from seller), the watch dates to 1968 - and is running the cal. 552.
- It was serviced about a year ago. The crystal and insert holding ring was replaced (both Omega parts.)
- The bezel moves in both directions with the noticeable click and remains snug once set.
- The bezel has a crack around the number 4, and has discoloration around the number 30.
- Crown screws down tight and is also tight when extending the tube; then moves freely when setting the time.
- I believe it may have been re-lumed, allthough the current owner says the watch has not been re-lumed while he has owned it (current owner acquired the watch around 2008). When I asked about the possible re-lume, I received the following response: "If you charge the lume it stays bright for a good bit, but then fades to a dim glow. I can see it during the night, but it is dim."The seller has offered to time the lume for me.Now, on to the pictures! While I was discussing this watch with seller, I received an offer to buy an SM300 (166.0324) assembled by WatchCo. The seller has no papers from WatchCo on the watch, and I only have these pictures now (more pictures can be arranged this weekend):

There is a USD 500 ($1800 and $2300) difference in price on these two offers.

What would be the best watch to purchase - given the information at hand?
At the moment, I am bit reluctant towards the WatchCo SM, as it has no documents - and I want to be certain that it indeed is assembled by WatchCo.

I appreciate any advice and comments.

Archer

Looks fine to me too - too bad they didn't put a black date indicator in it though....black with white numbers looks much better in my view....

hxw

Thank you for your responses! Now I just have to decide which watch to purchase. 😀

U ulackfocus

.....and what avatar picture to use.

Littleroger

Looks ok to me. Not sure but the date wheel could be a replacement. Bonus that it's on a 1171 bracelet.