I'm looking at my first Neo vintage Seamaster. I currently have a 2025 SMP blue dial with bond bracelet. I love this watch, but they say some of the neo vintage models are event better. I'm currently trying to deside between the 2220.80 Casino Royale or the 2254.50 Peter Blake. Anyone have experience with one or both of these watches?
No experience with any of these watches, but for what it's worth, I think the one you already have is the best looking one of the three.
I've had both and the current model too. Depends really if you like the slight bling of the 2220.80 with its applied markers or the pure tool look of the 2254. The 2220.80 has the coax 2500 movement which makes for a slight (but noticeable) increase in case depth. That for me is a drawback but some won't care. Note both wear a lot smaller and thinner than the bulky current model, despite the spec being only a mm or so wider and deeper on paper. The 2254.50 is super slim for a 300m rated dive watch.
Presumably you have rejected the original 2531.80 so do prefer a bit more bling. On that basis of those 2, perhaps the 2220.80 is the one to go for. Or is you are keeping the blue current version you show above, maybe try the 2254.50 to mix up your colour choices. Neither of those you suggest is a bad option.
I’ve purchased a few neo vintage pieces. Although the price is lower on these watches, I’ve typically sent them to Omega for a proper service. That way it’s warrantied and I get the original parts returned to me.
Of the the two you mentioned I would strongly lean towards the 2254. I think that is a watch most people keep in their collections, which says a lot, it's regarded as a modern classic for a reason(not that I own one, I do own a 2538.20 though).
The 2220.80 is a bit too similar to your 2015 SMP Blue Dial IMO, same style of markers, handset, dial colour, tractor link bracelet etc. The 2254 would be much better in giving you some variety which I always think is the way to go(and actually the reason I never bought a 2254, too much overlap with my 2538 despite a good amount of differences, I prefer a more varied collection personally).
I would look for a Peter Blake because of the sword hands. Have a 2531.80 which is very similar to the 2220.80. Since it's close to your current one, there's more of a difference between them and will give you a really different look between the two.
Having two similar watches, most times you'll gravitate more towards one and wonder why you got the other one.
Thanks Veggies, that good to know. Is there anyone you would recommend for a vintage watch like Chrono24 or some other?
Heres an article about this- I also vote for Peter Blake
https://www.fratellowatches.com/sun...er-professional-300m-2254-50-vs-2531-80/#gref
