Could this be more problems than it’s worth 105.012-66 CB

It's cheap because of the moldy lume IMO.

The hour counter is probably a result of "chrono creep". Just google it, it's widely documented. It can be repaired. The dial can't.

Yes, you can have it re-lumed. That's probably the only plausible path for this dial TBH.

7500 GBP is fairly steep for a watch in this condition imo. Even if this were a straightlug with a 1035 rather than 1039, that would still be a pretty steep ask. Also, does the seller not have any movement shots?

😲, when I hear the classical story of the "watch of my father"...
Of course it can be true.
But it always switches on a little warning to me.
The case seems sharp.
You should insist to get movement pics, IMHO.

For a watch that was worn and then put in a drawer, the bracelet is sure nice and shiny, without a single scuff on the clasp. 🙄

Yes the lume is mouldy.

but this is the cheapest near original watch on the market. There is a massive difference between this watch (apparently original apart from the crown and with poor lume) and a dealer prepped watch, or a 105012 that has been through several collectors hands, each having added a little “improvement” . I am not sure I can find a cheaper watch on sale at the moment worth having.

as always it’s about finding a watch that strikes the balance between interest, attraction and value.

This watch does have very strong plus points: the case showing the facets and the fat neck pushers. If these are bad there is nothing you can do for a 105.012-66CB.

it also has what looks like a good bracelet.

it comes from a private owner and it does look genuine. I am not sure what everyone expects to find for £7,500 today that will be better than this. Sure there are better watches, but they are more money - much more.

This watch I would buy and immediately send to Simon Freese as this is exactly the kind of watch he can do wonders with. You need a new old crown, and I would agree that sending the dial and handset to James H would be what I would do. James is a high precision tool who needs strong guidance as to what you want to end up with. You need to know what you want and give him clear guidance, or you won’t get what you want. He is the best re lumer I know outside Italy, and I think now he is familiar with the “not too new” look that goes best.

Unless the movement is rusted badly, I would not worry - asking a private seller to open a watch is fraught with problems - he might damage it, or take it to a watchmaker who spoils your deal. I never ask for movement shots from a private seller, I make an informed gamble, and adjust my offer according to my intuition.

Things to watch for are the genuineness of the private seller - a phone call usually settles that. The risks you have are that the movement is either non speedmaster or damaged beyond repair. You might be able to buy subject to an extract, but every condition you lay on the deal might increase the chance you lose to someone else, who comes along and reaps the benefit of all the research you push the seller into doing.

I would guess the whole watch after service and re lume might come in at £8,500

Not much in speedmasters is perfect. And if it is, a top 105.012 with bracelet is over £18,000- 20,000

So it’s all about compromise and for me if I was going to find a sub 10k watch, this would definitely be in the running.

it’s definitely worth look at

I don't collect or even own a single Omega but I always look forward to reading your posts @Spacefruit

As an enthusiast who is clearly far more publicly visible than most keyboard warriors here (myself included) I find the regularity with which you stick your neck out something to really aspire to in my own collecting life.

Funny that.

(Not me!😀)