hello all I am considering this 1961 seamaster cal 552 automatic. This would be my 3rd and by far most expensive watch (2 others were $25 thrift shop finds). Seller is a trusted watchmaker who has serviced my thrift shop finds. Watch is serviced, new Omega crown and logoed crystal, new hirsch strap. Seahorse logo is on the back. Asking price is $780 USD Thoughts?
I am no expert, but I immediately have questions about the dial. Overpriced IMHO, but I will let others chime in. However, if you truly believe that the watch was actually fully serviced, then this price isn't horrible.
Lume isn't always matching on hands and dial. It usually starts out that way but hands and dial may come from different contractors and age differently. Even if those hands are replaced, they are the correct style and so is the crown. These are getting harder to find in decent condition and the dial variant is a scarce and attractive one. I think the price is only a little high and still well below dealer level. If you like it and trust the seller, I see no problem, especially if it has been properly serviced.
I'd like it much better at $650. My biggest issues are the dial has lost nearly all of its lume (probably due to an overly aggressive cleaning attempt) and there are some aging issues around the periphery.