Inherited my Grandfather's old Seamaster 300

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Concer

·Dec 22, 2020

Most of the good tips have already been given here 👍

When choosing a watchmaker, I would make sure that they have already had experience with the watch. The bezel itself is very fragile, in this condition it is better not to look at it crookedly, otherwise it will fall apart. You should make sure that you let fix the parts of the bezel that are still there and then (if you like) have them refurbished.

Have fun with this beautiful watch and please keep us informed!

 

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Syrte

·Dec 22, 2020

You might also insure it given that it’s’worth over 10 thousand dollars if I’m not mistaken.

 

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smoothsecondscom

·Dec 22, 2020

Damn! I don't know much about this watch but honestly it's cool that you found such a cool watch. Especially since it's a family member.

 

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alefar

·Dec 22, 2020

Wow. Congrats, what a piece to inherit🥰🥰

 

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vlaspri

·Dec 23, 2020

This is a great watch which I would try to service locally if possible. Wear it in good health and keep us informed!

 

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lawler

·Dec 23, 2020

Oh my - that is lovely.

 

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aleksejeremeev

·Dec 25, 2020

be sure to share the photo after the service.

 

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Syrte

·Dec 25, 2020

For a watch like this you need someone who comes recommended by people here who have direct experience. Reviews on Yelp aren’t going to do the job.

 

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pdxleaf

·Dec 25, 2020·"I cut it TWICE and it's still short!"

I just opened this thread. Your watch is staggeringly beautiful as is. Just a lubrication and cleaning, then many choices for straps.

Thanks for sharing.

 

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SkunkPrince

·Dec 25, 2020

Don't be afraid of a crystal replacement. They're identical for this referencee. See if your watchmaker can change the crown gasket. Do not fear a new crown tube.

 

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Rudi99

·Dec 26, 2020

Congrats OP on your heirloom!

I must join the other voices here and say that it is a very collectible and desirable piece in original condition and not too over polished, which means it is worth substantial money, like @Syrte said. Be careful where you store it!

 

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Lancaster

·Jan 4, 2021

Very cool. A big plus that the back is in such great condition.

 

F

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Fartwinds

·Jan 19, 2021

I got a watch tool kit over the holidays, so I was able to take the back off the watch and take some pictures. Figured you guys would enjoy them.

 

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Capt Cave Man

·Jan 19, 2021

You may not have known your grandfather, apart of him will now always walk with you with this wonderful piece.

Congratulations, always wear it in good health 👍

 

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cvalue13

·Jan 19, 2021

F Fartwinds

I got a watch tool kit over the holidays, so I was able to take the back off the watch and take some pictures. Figured you guys would enjoy them.

Youve probably sorted all this, but with the caseback off it’s now more clearly a reference 14755-62, with the caliber 550 movement. The serial number is consistent with production 1962 (different from sale date, which could have been later for obvious reasons).

One other hopefully helpful analogy regarding the forum member’s strong suggestions to not touch the watch other than a delicate service: generally speaking, classic car collectors value vehicles with original paint, wheels, and mechanicals - even if seeming rough around the edges, as it’s the originality that is valuable; while a “fully restored” car with new paint and a crate motor has its place, those typically begin as a vehicle otherwise beyond repair for their originality value.

So, the forum members are in effect saying: change the oil, get a new air filter, but for the love of god don’t repaint it (or let it near a mechanic that doesn’t specialize in these cars).

This prerogative is probably especially strong in your case, where every dented bumper or crack in the windshield was a miss-adventure had by your grandfather 👍

Thanks for sharing

 

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Garv

·Jan 19, 2021

Nepomuceño

There are a couple of options. It'll also depend on your budget. I've heard a couple people mention the above but I've also heard that guy may be backlogged. You'd have to check on that one. I use and recommend Paul's Watch Repair in Sacramento. They are very fairly priced and do quick work. There is also this one located in San Francisco. They will be on the pricier end however.

Paul's has done work on my 1934 Hamilton Drake, 1955 Gubelin and a mid 60's Girard Peregaux. Excellent work, and fairly priced. Considering the significance of the watch to you, and age of the watch, it would be worth having a conversation with them first.

 

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Nepomuceño

·Jan 19, 2021

Garv

Paul's has done work on my 1934 Hamilton Drake, 1955 Gubelin and a mid 60's Girard Peregaux. Excellent work, and fairly priced. Considering the significance of the watch to you, and age of the watch, it would be worth having a conversation with them first.

I agree. Very fairly priced and transparent. Raimond and Paul do great work.

 

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Lancaster

·Jan 20, 2021

Thanks for the pics.

 

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Rayleigh

·Jan 20, 2021

F Fartwinds

San Francisco, but I'm willing to send it across the country if need be to get proper service.

Check out Greg aka @true_patina on IG