Hi everyone. First I want to thank those on the boards - and especially those like Archer and Dan S. for being so helpful while I ran around in concern.
I was super fortunate to find a Master Watchmaker - who lives close to me (72 years old with 43 years experience) - who was able to clean up and replace my original dial which was in fantastic condition I am super happy to say. The hands were near perfect - but the sweep was slightly damaged from whoever took it out (which he showed me before he put it back in). It was fixed by the Watchmaker - but I don't know that it will ever be mint again.
For those who are new like me - I found some great resources on this forum. That said - be wary as well. The Fratello article about Speedmaster bezels was wrong (they did not mention the serif on the 7's) - and there are some hacks out there.
This forum continues to be one of the greatest sources of truth out there.
Winding: Like Archer and others stated - don't be afraid. Wind at the same time every day until you cannot - without ever applying a ton of force - and you should be fine.
For those wanting to estimate the date of their Speedy - an amazing resource - from this Forum - is a fantastic link. With the serial of the Speedy you will get at least an approximation and it gets better as more actual information is added to it.
https://www.ilovemyspeedmaster.com/productiondateprediction/
This watch is my favourite. It is my first vintage watch, With the original parts in and the watch working really well (plus the original 1171 with trapezoid bracelet) - I really feel I did well (I got the watch for about 6K CDN - so about 4200 US). With the parts in place - and bracelet - I believe I increased its value (although it really isn't my thing - this is a keeper).
I will continue to lurk here - I thank-you all again for your kind support - especially when my questions were very Newb.
Cheers!
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