Hello All, This is my first question here, and I would like to pick your brains for some help. I am looking to purchase my first Speedy and found one from the 70's. The seller does not have any pictures of the movement which scares me. He is asking $2,150. Should I avoid this? Also, he does not know when the last time it was serviced. It is a cal 861. Thanks!
It looks a legit 145.022 from 1970s with the right 1171 bracelet. Condition is decent for a worn watch, but hey it is a tool watch. Cal 861 is a strong movement, however you should budget usd 3-400 for servicing it. Probably you could negotiate that with the seller.
Price is reasonable, try to do better if you can but if he's solid on 2150 and you want a 70s Speedmaster Pro I'd do it.
So how does one 'do better'. If an offer that seems too low is made, feelings may be hurt, emotions erupt and the sky falls in on any deal potential.... Any suggestions?
this example seems very nice. I would probably go for it too. But, if seller is in the business and refuses to show the internals, that would make me a bit skeptical of the watch.
it looks like a nice clean watch...Pay his price-but negotiate a return for any reason option...you can then inspect the watch and movement closely..and return if not up to a good standard...
Thanks for all of the advice! I pulled the trigger and got it at $2150. Can return if major issues. I will update with pictures when I receive it.
UPDATE: Hello all, I received my first speedy and just got it back from servicing and I wanted to share. My watchmaker said the movement was in mint condition. The serial number dated it my birth year so that was an added surprise! Unfortunately I was not able to get some pictures of the movement while it was being worked on, but I hope to get some soon. Here is a picture of it on my wrist as well as random shots. Apologies for the poor quality pictures.
I think you did very well! ...and getting a clean bill of health on the movement from your watchmaker is another plus! congrats!
Thanks for the kind words all. And looking at all the wonderful straps for it may become a new addiction as well!
Great watch! Great deal! I missed you original post but when a 30-40 year old watch looks that good, I assume it's been cared for. Congrats!