Der Fliegerchronograph (IWC 377724): My first pilot watch: Custom ABP pilot strap also arrived today: I just need a deployant clasp for it!
Very pleased to have “landed” this one recently. Benrus Sky Cheif, 35mm Black gilt dial, Vajloux 72, in pretty sharp condition. I’ve read a bit about the history of the company and this particular model, but always happy to learn more.
Just recompensed my watchmaker for his labours and my serviced 'Smiths' Imperial Everest is now heading home
I finally settled on buying my first luxury watch - the Speedmaster Professional. I, of course, opted for the Sapphire because it is more durable and has the see-through caseback. On Omega's website, the Sapphire and Hesalite look the exact same, so I shelled out the extra $300 for the Sapphire. In case anyone doesn't believe me, Omega uses the same image for both the Sapphire and Hesalite versions on their website: Hesalite https://www.omegawatches.com/en-us/...professional-chronograph-42-mm-31130423001005 Sapphire: https://www.omegawatches.com/en-us/...professional-chronograph-42-mm-31130423001006 I even went to a store to see the watch, and they had only the Hesalite version. I didn't think twice because it's the same watch, right? Come Tuesday, 7/3, and my watch arrives. I was so happy and couldn't wait to wear it. Put on the Nato strap because I need to take out a couple of links and my tiny screwdriver was a bit too small. Throughout the day, much to my dismay, I kept seeing the white ring around the dial. Like a rubber seal showing through. This was nowhere to be found on the Omega site. Long story wrapped up - I am now trading in my "Used" (for a couple of hours) Sapphire for a Hesalite in an even trade. Cost me $300 because I would've got the Hesalite version to begin with had I known how obvious that white ring would be. No one to blame but myself for not doing due diligence, but it reeks for false advertising for Omega to use the same image for both watches on their website. And now I wait until my Hesalite arrives.
Got this bunch today Nice looking Zodiac. Well, its dial is domed and stepped, so I am tempted to call it a pie pan actually I like the arrow second hand. Nice looking movement, not familiar with it though. Some pocket watches, I don't collect them so i might list them elsewhere soon.
Picked this up at Place de Longemall today. Thanks Mimi J for advise. Dial is redone by Vacheron with Certs.
Been a busy boy today ... The first purchase was this lil cutie: Purchased on a cruiseship in 1964 this Silver Arrow is all original. There is quite heavy patination to the dial but not what I'd call damage. Original bracelet ad endlinks as well as the purchased guarantee. I thought I'd have to pay more for this one than I did. Next up on the block: Just a perfectly sweet Dennison cased Omega 23.7xx (I'm guessing)utterly filthy but sets and runs. Haven't tried winding it yet. The third I do really, really like: You really can't beat good, dirty, watches. This 1923 9ct gold Genex (one of Wilsdorf's short lived alternate names) in an RWC case with an (as yet) unidentified movement. I've just brushed one corner of the dial with a cotton bud and the dirt has lifted straight out ... she's going to clean up beautifully.
Have been looking for a 3017-based chrono for a while but the Ebay world is full of expensive watches of questionable integrity/originality. Altered my search criteria and found this one: "found in my father's posessions after he passed away". Took a chance and won it for £260. Received today and very happy indeed. Underneath all the crud it is in lovely shape - case is super-sharp with no corrosion at all, hands are original, dial is perfect and also looks to be original. Had to cut the strap off with a scalpel (look at the spring bars!). Movement number is 13595, so pretty early. seller's pic: strap after removal: head after strap removal: It'll need a service, a proper clean and maybe a new crystal, but very pleased with it!
This two-tone Longines from the 1940s with a sharp 35mm SS case. What makes it uncommon is that it was originally invoiced to Hakkak, a Longines agent in Iran. Special thanks to @Tony C. for helping me vet this one.