Howdy all. Would like opinions on this watch before I drive two hours to look at it in person. I apologize for the horrible photos but if you can discern any red flags please point them out. I don't have pics of the inside caseback or movement, seller doesn't have the capability. I think it's ref 166.020 in gold cap with perhaps a 56x series movement. Opinions appreciated. Again, I apologize for the poor quality pics, the seller sent me a bunch but apparently his photography skills are wanting. Thanks.
Hi, A few observations, first this is not a 166.020 as that would have a date function. It is also not a 165.020 cal 5xx. The contours of the case back reveal that this is a smaller model, with the caliber 670. I have one very similar. It is a midsize model, 32mm as opposed to 34.5mm for the cal 5xx. Black dial Seamasters can be suspect. Since they are considered more desirable, some redials are painted black in an attempt to increase value. This one looks to be original. The text is crisp and the Swiss made is correct for the model. The lume pips on the markers look correctly aged. If you are OK with the smaller model and cal 670 instead of 550 or 562 then it looks ok to me. Keep in mind these typically don't fetch quite the same price as the larger examples.
Sorry for the double post. One more thing to add. It is not gold cap as the back would still be stainless in that case. In the fourth picture you can see the words "14k gold filled" just above the bottom lugs.
One thing CIMO did not mention, is that the gold filling is worn off on the lug ends. not good. I know the pic quality is not that good but I don't see an Omega on the crown. Could be just the pics though.
Good point. Now that you mention it, it looks to be worn through in two places on the back as well. Would be a deal breaker for me. Shame since it looks like a nice dial.
Jeesh! I didn't see that on the caseback. I thought it was a reflection or light effect. Run Forrest run... You can do better. Be patient.