Inherited Speed Master from '68-'69

JB

Hi all, I recently looked closely at this watch I received from my deceased uncle, realizing I needed to learn more about it. I know he bought it in either '68 or '69 while in the Med with the US Navy, likely during a port visit to Naples, or somewhere similar. It has been extensively used and I just came back from the Omega Store here. They said they would send a vintage watch to Switzerland. They would not open it to help me identify the serial number. Any recommendations on whether to let Omega take it for maintenance or find someone to open it so I can ID it by the serial number? If Omega goes through it, would that cause concern (possibly replacing original parts?).
It winds and works quite well, have worn it a couple of times but really want to get the full information on it. Thanks for any input.

JB

I was able to confirm the casing 145.102 67 as seen here. I suppose I will get the pics sent back to Omega for a confirmation/certification from them[.]

masteroftime

Unfortunately, Omega won’t confirm nor issue any sort of certificate anymore. They used to have a service that has been discontinued for a few years now.

As to the band, they can certainly sell you a new bracelet or vabd. For this watch, they would offer a new 1171/1 with 633 endlink bracelet or a leather/fabric strap.

However, there are many more affordable or period correct options discussed on the forum.

pdxleaf

Gotta say, this is pretty exciting. Appreciate you sharing your story.

Did you check the serial number on the movement? It's located here:

It's not absolute, but it's generally believed that your serial number should be in the serial range between 26.076.xxx and 26.079.xxx. Again, this is based on known and verified examples, but isn't written in stone.