Newby here. Please be gentle.

I’ve always wanted a Speedy, and doing research I’ve decided I want a vintage one, not new. I came across this 145.022-74 sold by an Omega Authorized Service Dealer in pretty good shape. I haven’t opened the case to confirm the reference and movement - I’m purely going on the jeweler’s representation. Attached are some photos and I would like your opinions.

I’m not sure if the bracelet is original. The back of the bracelet is different from the front. Is that only on new Speedmasters? It’s too small for my wrist and I would need more links or a replacement.

The dial is stepped, but I have read that the dial should be non-stepped in 1974. As I mentioned, I haven’t asked to see the inside of the case yet to confirm the ref number.

Thanks.

 

Case has been polished in a way that disfigured the shape of the lugs. Looks bald. I'd pass hard on this one. Bracelet could be a 1450 but end links are 633 so not sure what's going on there. Still a steer clear from me though.

 

Looks like a real Franken to me. 633 end link on one side 808 on the other with a 1450 bracelet that would be wrong on this watch plus a step dial on a 74? Chrono hand from the '60s? Also polished to death

 

By the way, tell the jeweller I will give them a 633 for that 808 What the hell I feel generous, tell them I will even give them an 1171 for that 1450

 

Much better '74s have been posted he recently on OF, and for prices no higher then that one is asking.

 

Agree with all posted here, you would do better being a little patient and stalking the classified’s here. The era of Speedy you are looking at are abundant (I have a ‘72) and are a great value in the SMP lineup (‘70-80’s).There is no reason you can’t get an outstanding example with sharp edges and full length bracelet and service history for that kind of money.... patience new guy, it will be worth it

 

Plus that lume is going mossy-for that money on that era I want vibrant yellow

 

This is all great information. Thanks.

 

Search the classified’s for “Speedmaster” and look at the sold listings- don’t look at the 60’s with the 321 movements which are just ungodly expensive, just the run of the mill Speedy’s from the 70’s and 80’s- which I love as they are just great watches with no cache other then being a Speedmaster in the purest form. You will see what is available at what prices and get a better idea of the market and what to expect for your money.
Also read Speedy 101 and Learn to fish in the sticky’s and it will help you hone your eye to know what to look for