Hi,
New to watches, new to this forum. Recently bought a used speedy. I went to a reputable walk-in store because I am experienced and wanted to buy from a trusted source. I love the watch but have been trying to do some research and now have some questions:

It was sold as 1984 but now I’m not so sure. The serial number is 48371xxx. Looking at some pictures on the net, the dial looks more mid-90s? There were no original papers but the receipt mentions case back #345.0022. I have seen 145.0022, but what does 345.0022 mean, and where is it found on the watch? I have not seen the movement (should I have asked to see it before I bought?).

The bracelet has 842 on it. Is this consistent with an 84 or 90s? Appreciate any info you can give me - I'm hoping that, at least, all the parts are original and consistent. recently posted this on Open Discussions but have not had replies.
Thanks all

 

Most numbers are inside and on the caseback. Looks legit but @Spacefruit would be able to give you the best info.

Did you buy it at the Sydney dealers you mentioned in another thread?

 

I'm pretty sure that's mid-90s. The serial number stamping on the case appeared in the early 90s, and the luminova dial in 1997 or 98. So at the very least, it's an early 90s watch with a replaced dial

 

The dial should be tritium 'T SWISS MADE T' if its a 1984,and im sure the bracelet with the 'speedmaster professional' is a later type as well?

 

The 842 on the bracelet is the part number for the end links, the actual bracelet is probably a 1499. The lack of a T SWISS MADE T on the bottom of the dial indicates post 1997, no Tritium material for the lume just super luminova. The serial stamped on the back of the lug, and the 4837xxxx number indicate to me that it is a production year 1998 Speedmaster. Just my opinion, but I do think that all the parts are genuine Omega and probably original. The 345.0022 is the same case as the 145.0022, at some point Omega decided that the 3 indicated a bracelet and the 1 indicated a strap. I believe both numbers are stamped inside the caseback now.

 

This thread might be a good read for you:
https://omegaforums.net/threads/speedmaster-1450022-franken.37552/
You can see his caseback shows 345.0022 just below 145.0022--I wouldn't be worried about that being on your receipt. And yes, anytime you're spending a good deal of money on a used watch, it would be a good idea to check under the hood (as you would with a used car). Even better to have comparative photos at the ready.

It's worth mentioning that unless you paid with cash/check, you do have recourse in the event that you were misled in any way. Credit card protections actually do guarantee physical returns at stores (not just online or mail/phone order). I would definitely take a peek inside asap--a cheapo case opening tool will run you $5 or less.

 

145.022 on the newer cases is the part number for the case after the switch over

 

Thanks all for your comments. the consensus seems to be its a 1998 or so. I guess I was wondering if, all things being equal, would a 1998 be more or less collectible than a 1984 and , consequently should the price reflect that? regardless, am enjoying wearing it very much. Also, you can't rotate the crown very far each time you woind it because it's hard up agains the case and I have to give it 50 or more turns - is that about right?