1970 a transition year for Speedmasters. This one is in better condition than me. Thanks krinkly. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Good job! Is that a -69 with a Hippocampus case back? Are you going to get an Extract? My birth year 1971 arrived this week too. Looks like we might have the same watch.
That's nice that you got a 220 bezel! The straight writing would show up first on the 145.022-71. However, I don't think all -71s have that. Mine is a -69 hippo case with a movement from 1971. It needs a little service so I haven't worn it yet I expect to remedy that next week.
The straight-writing casebacks were 145.022-69s, but produced in 1971. The 145.022-71 is the first to feature the medallion caseback (modern), but still features a stepped dial like the -69.
Right. According to MWO. 145.022-69 with straight text were produced from 70/71 to 73. With serial numbers from 3100... To 3285... 1971 SN probably start around 3100. 69 to 71 was a very interesting period for Speedys, represented by the 145.022-69 reference. No fewer than 3 bezel types and 3 case backs. The only stepped dial with a painted logo.
Well as said, the 145.022-71 reference also featured the stepped dial with the painted logo, but with the DNN bezel and medallion caseback (with the exception of the rare -71 No Medallion back)
Sorry to be pedantic, but the smooth backed -71 had the medallion, but no commemorative engraving. http://speedmaster101.com/145-022/145-022-71-74-76-78/
Hah yes you're right - it does feature the central hippocampus medallion, but not the engraving. I think I've seen them referred to often as "no medallion", which is why I repeated that - I may have made that up though!
Now I'm really confused - again My 145.022-69 Straight Writing Serial # 31.627.xxx has a DNN bezel, stepped dial and painted logo. All is good?
