Hi Everyone, I’m new to this forum, but I’ve lurked a little and been impressed with the wealth of knowledge here. So far I’ve been a purely vintage Rolex guy, but I’m now ready to venture into the unknown, attempting to find a great Seamaster 300. I know that I want the no date version, sword hands, tritium bezel and a super thick/sharp case. It is also extremely important that all parts are original to the watch and that the patina is attractive and matching all over. In short I want to find the best possible SM300 money can buy, without venturing into military watch territory. I am prepared to spend time on this quest, but have already eyed a couple of candidates: I would greatly appreciate if you could let me know your opinions on these: http://www2.europeanwatch.com/24652.html http://www2.europeanwatch.com/24205.html Should I pull the trigger or hold out for something better?
Well, if you want original and sharp case...then you need to wait. That 300 no date you posted has polished case...the tops of the lyre lugs are brushed, the sides are brushed, and the polish on the fat part of the case is not bright...that entire case is bright. Also looks like a later screw down crown and you will want a close foot naiad crown. You can still find killer examples in the $6-7 range head only, and you can then source a 1039 bracelet. Just food for thought. Look at other members 300s on here to see what great examples look like. Finding a nice 300 is much more difficult than finding a great vintage Rolex Sub...most references that is. Good luck and welcome to the forum. 300s are killer watches.
Have you thought about watchco watches? These are donor movements with NOS case/dial/Bezel/hands. Basically brand new sm300's. Here is an example that just sold https://omegaforums.net/threads/ome...52-ref-166-0324-–-recently-constructed.48035/
Thanks a lot for the input. I have briefly looked into to watchco alternative, but find myself longing for the charisma and sense of "lived life" that comes with vintage. I'll start with scouting the archives here for members watches for reference.
Ask to see @smitty190373 example. Here are some pics of my unpolished 165.024 from 1967 for comparison to the European Watch example...
Apologies in advance OP for taking this slightly off track, since I see you are looking for a no-date. But is anyone aware of a good online discussion or other reliable source of information about the use of different coloured date wheels on SM300s?
Thanks for raising the bar guys! These examples are simply stunning, and showcase clearly the attraction of an unmolested case, as well as an original clean dial and bezel. Very inspirational. I will definitely hold out until I find The One. Let me know if you have any pointers on where to start my search. And, of course, should anyone have one, please drop me a PM Thanks again for sharing.
Besides the polished case on the 165.024 from europeanwatch co., the hands are not original. They are from a 166.073
There are none out there now...the ones that come to market and sell are in that range. Some are more and some are less. My 300 date was bought a month ago for $4500.