Help with first vintage purchase (Seamaster)

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I’ve been eyeing a vintage Seamaster to mark a life milestone. This is a watch I have wanted for years and am finally like to pull the trigger on one - or so I thought.

Initially my thoughts were that I just wanted something that looked vintage and moderately clean, but that was six months ago and I now have some combination of analysis paralysis where I also feel like I know absolutely nothing about what to look for. I have tried to do a lot of research before asking for probably the same type of help that is always asked for here, but here I am.

I have been eyeing closer0924 on eBay, as he seems to have a big selection but more importantly a good reputation. I’m speaking very generally, but what I am looking for is something along the lines of a 165.002, 165.003, or 165.010 (and probably several other models that I’m yet to learn about). I love the silver dial that looks cream or champagne and am not terribly afraid of a little patina. No date window. After all my research I feel like I know less than I did to start and don’t have an eye for what looks out of place on a watch or what else to look for on top of looks. I just flat out can’t spot a redial or a watch that isn’t authentic to save my life.

I have recently been studying this 165.010 and would love to get some thoughts on it or any help/suggestions you guys might be willing to throw my way. Visually, the dial looks a little more silver than many that I have seen/what I like, but I suspect that could just be the photo. Much appreciated!

 
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This is a nice and classic reference, so good choice to start with!

Regarding this one in particular, note that the photos are over-exposed so it makes it difficult to fully assess (Japanese seller?).

The dial looks fine in my opinion, with some slight wear. The movement number dates the watch to 1962, which would be at the transition between the coat-hanger S and rounded S. Serifs etc. are there, the text looks good to me, faceted hands with correct length. Crown looks right.

The case has some visible wear, with pitting on the side and scratches to the 5 o'clock lug. The sides should be brushed, can't figure if this is still visible. Also worth asking for pictures of the BOR clasps and endlinks (which should be 11 or 511 for this reference). I seem to be able to discern a vague "11" on the last pic, but hard to tell. If genuine, then this adds around 200 euros. Make sure this has the right length for your wrist.

What's the asking price?

For pricing comparisons, I would recommend looking at this forum's Private Watch Sales +/- wear using the comparison examples. Probably factor in a service (likely needed if for daily wear) into your budget as well . Ensure you factor in import duties, depending on where you are.
 
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This is a nice and classic reference, so good choice to start with!

Regarding this one in particular, note that the photos are over-exposed so it makes it difficult to fully assess (Japanese seller?).

The dial looks fine in my opinion, with some slight wear. The movement number dates the watch to 1962, which would be at the transition between the coat-hanger S and rounded S. Serifs etc. are there, the text looks good to me, faceted hands with correct length. Crown looks right.

The case has some visible wear, with pitting on the side and scratches to the 5 o'clock lug. The sides should be brushed, can't figure if this is still visible. Also worth asking for pictures of the BOR clasps and endlinks (which should be 11 or 511 for this reference). I seem to be able to discern a vague "11" on the last pic, but hard to tell. If genuine, then this adds around 200 euros. Make sure this has the right length for your wrist.

What's the asking price?

For pricing comparisons, I would recommend looking at this forum's Private Watch Sales +/- wear using the comparison examples. Probably factor in a service (likely needed if for daily wear) into your budget as well . Ensure you factor in import duties, depending on where you are.

Thank you for the thorough response. Unfortunately the watch was purchased after my post but before I saw yours. This gives me a good template to follow should I stumble across another 165.010, which will be helpful. The price was $925 on eBay and $775 with shipping on Chrono24 which felt reasonable.

The search continues!
 
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The popular view is that Chron24 is more expensive than eBay but in my experience, that’s not always the case