I was going to post this in WRUW but I think it's worthy of a larger audience. Out here in general because it's a Speedmaster but not new, and not vintage, either.

Behold!



With a few spare dollars, this could be yours too!

First, the parts you need on the Speedmaster are intended for FOIS, so buy those from Otto Frei. New sweep second hand, new hour hand, new minute hand. If you need them, the register hands.

The strap is a Fluco rally strap with Horweeen #8 leather. They call it brown, but it has some red in it. Nice nice strap. I believe I bought it from Holben's, probably on eBay. They are nice people.

18mm pin buckle, also from Otto Frei.

These few changes made a somewhat ugly 57 Replica (remember those?) into a fun watch to wear.

Tom

 

Each to his own, as they say.

 

Yes, yes I do remember those. Rather like mine...

To each his own, indeed.

 

I've always thought this watch looked great in the pictures but after a year or three on the wrist, got it all changed.

Tom

 

As others have said, each to their own, I couldn't live with a modified watch. I think the 57 replica is one of the few speedies I would buy. One of the great things about watches is that their is something for everyone. As long as you like it that is all that really matters. Wear it in good health.

 

Looks great to me, I'd be proud to wear it!

 

That 57 is a killer for me, especially on that leather coated Omega nato strap

 

Interesting modifications but beautiful pieces nonetheless!

 

Brilliant! I gather you changed the bezel too but didn't mention it?
I found via vintage that I prefer the "Professional" case and its twisted lugs and crown guard. The Replica bezel gave me retinal burn when I glanced at it. And the broad arrow hour hand is just plain...perfect for others but not me (nearly got nasty there)!
I prefer your mod to the FOIS and the Replica!

 

Oh, yes, sorry. I went from stock to black bezel and white stick hands, and used it that way for many years, and just lately put the alpha hands on for something different.

Tom