Best Omega-produced Flat link bracelet for Watchco SM300

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I’m trying to figure out the best Omega-produced modern flat link bracelet that would fit my Watchco Seamaster SM300 (rather than an Uncle/Forstner alternative).

Reading around it seems I have two options:

1. 2019 Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Speedmaster bracelet (020STZ011626)
2. 2022 ‘57 Speedmaster bracelet (020STZ015403)

I’ve read many numerous forum discussions and have emerged pretty confused. I’m sure someone here must have got it all figured out…!

From what I read:

The Apollo 11 bracelet has a lipped end link (to fit a groove on the Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Speedmaster’s case) that might/might not need to be filed down to fit the Watchco; the clasp has a vintage logo and only a one notch adjustment of the bracelet possible (using a spring bar tool).

The ‘57 bracelet might have too-long endlinks (at least I’ve read they may be too long for Speedmasters); a clasp with a more modern logo and Omega’s comfort release adjustment (resulting in a longer clasp).

Are these the main pros and cons? Is the overall design otherwise broadly similar?

Is there a clear winner in terms of compatibility with the Watchco? Would either fit the Watchco well without adjustment? And if adjustment is needed, is sourcing different end links (which ones?) the best path to go down, or better to get the original Omega ones adjusted / filed down?

Thank you
 
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Personally I’d find a good 1039 for a WatchCo sm300. They’re perfectly serviceable if in good condition.

An 1175 is also an option.

I just can’t see a modern bracelet looking right.
Edited:
 
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The issue is, the vintage bracelets, all the way to '90s and the 1479 uses small tabs/wings to stabilize the end link. The modern bracelets use more accurate machining and a lip. At best, the lip will cause the end link to tilt unattractively, worst if you file it away, you now are relying on it fitting very closely to the case so the end link doesn't flop around. Forstner end links might work. I don't think it's worth all the cost, though. I just bought the A11 50th for my new 3861 Moonwatch and it never crossed my mind to attempt to fit it to my SM300 or "Replica" Speedmaster.

I'd rather just get a Forstner Flat Link. I wear a Contemporary Flat Link on my green SMP frequently without any issue or concerns. I do wish a standard pressure clasp was still offered, though. An 1171 is an option and the 1039 repair options are more viable now so finding one of those makes more sense than it used to.
 
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Personally I’d find a good 1039 for a WatchCo sm300. They’re perfectly serviceable if in good condition.

An 1175 is also an option.

I just can’t see a modern bracelet looking right.
Thanks @Davidt - I'll investigate that. I had - probably wrongly - assumed that they were pretty flimsy/hard to find in good condition and/or tricky to get fixed!
 
Posts
65
Likes
44
The issue is, the vintage bracelets, all the way to '90s and the 1479 uses small tabs/wings to stabilize the end link. The modern bracelets use more accurate machining and a lip. At best, the lip will cause the end link to tilt unattractively, worst if you file it away, you now are relying on it fitting very closely to the case so the end link doesn't flop around. Forstner end links might work. I don't think it's worth all the cost, though. I just bought the A11 50th for my new 3861 Moonwatch and it never crossed my mind to attempt to fit it to my SM300 or "Replica" Speedmaster.

I'd rather just get a Forstner Flat Link. I wear a Contemporary Flat Link on my green SMP frequently without any issue or concerns. I do wish a standard pressure clasp was still offered, though. An 1171 is an option and the 1039 repair options are more viable now so finding one of those makes more sense than it used to.
Thanks @josiahg52 - it does seem that adapting modern Omega bracelets might be more trouble than it's worth, particularly given the cost!