Original Case Finish for A C-Case Seamaster 120 (166.027, et al.)

Hey all, I’ve had the privilege of owning a few of the first iteration Seamaster 120s in various forms. I’ve bought and sold them over the years, but I’ve held on to one 166.027.

One thing I’ve always wondered about is the original finishing. I’ve seen some advertised as NOS or close to NOS with the top of the case featuring radial brushing. However, I’ve rarely come across this brushing out in the wild. That would make me think most have been polished, but I’ve come across a few that still appear sharp.

Does anyone know of an answer on this or have thoughts? Is it possible that they came both ways? I know service cases were made for these, some of which have an extra digit in the reference number.

Here is a seemingly NOS case from ebay without brushing:



Here are some excellent dealer examples sans brushing:



Here is an example with the brushing I mentioned:

I almost messaged you directly! I thought you’d have the answer.