I want to put a modern Speedy bracelet on my 145.022. I’m primarily eyeing the 1498/1499 and 1998.

Does anyone have insight on which bracelet fits the 145.022 case better, or anything I need to watch out for? Eg do certain end links not fit the 145.022?

Also open to alternative suggestions for modern Speedy-style bracelets.

Thanks!

 

FMPOV the 1498/99 fits way better to a Speedy because it is getting slimmer from the 20mm lugs towards the 18mm clasp. The 1998 is 20mm overall and to fat.

 

Thanks for the feedback. I do like that aesthetic element of the 1498/99, too.

I’ve noticed the polished parts of the bracelet on the 1498/99 some seem as polished or prominent as the 1998’s polished bits. Is that true? Or maybe I’ve just seen bad pics of the 1498/99?

 

No, actually the polished parts are similar

 

Both should have an 840 or 849 end link. Only minor differences. The 1498 tapers to 16mm and has a friction-fit clasp. The 1998 tapers to 18mm and has a pushbutton clasp.

Some prefer the greater taper of the 1498. The 1998 can be retrofitted with a micro-adjust clasp.

Uncle Seiko sells a type of beads-of-rice bracelet that fits the Speedmaster, Some like that look, I personally do not.

He is working on a flat-link bracelet to fit the Speedmaster and Seamaster 300. If such a thing appeals to you, you might wait for it.

Many a Speedmaster was sold with a black crocodile strap and the Omega deployant buckle. Older style is double-ridged and 16mm clasp, which is no longer available, as far as I know. Later is dome-padded black crocodile with an 18mm clasp.

Of course you could wear your Speedmaster on a 20mm Maratac or equivalent strap, or get one of the NASA reproduction straps.

Hope this helps. I have owned both the 1498 and 1998 bracelets and I preferred the pushbutton clasp of the 1998.

Tom

 

Yep, bracelet taper is as Tom said, 20 to 16 vs 20 to 18, with the clasp being 2 mm wider on each, so 18 vs 20 mm for the clasp... however, the thinner clasp looks way better imo.