Hello all... I'm looking to learn just a bit more about my two transitioanl 68' Speedmasters. I would like todays lesson to focus on the dials on these two watches. First, I know the transitionals can be a very gray area but any thoughts on the differences between these two dials and their origins would, as always, be greatly appreciated. Also, I see a small difference on the bottom of the lug ends. These are my to 1968 Speedmasters. Both have the 861 movement, yet both have very different dials. I think my question really boils down to, is the dial on the older one from the 145.012's or earlier? One of the most attactive difference is that the dial on the right is jet black while the dial on the left is lighter. Here are the two dials in question. Left 2655369X Right 2655531X On the case back the ends of the lugs are different. The case on the top has been lightly polished and the case on the bottom has not been touched. When the watches are placed back to back the length is identical with each end and lug matching up together perfectly. 2655531X..The bottom of the lugs tapper down to the end. Left 2655369X The lugs ends are flat a bit out to the end.
Both 145.012 dials Color could be due to UV exposure difference or paint batch Not sure about the lug ends My 145.012 has lug ends like 315x