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Purchasing 1968 Seamaster Cosmic - issues!

N
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Hi,
I am looking at buying a good condition (cosmetically) 1968 Seamaster Cosmic Automatic.
As you can see the Timegrapher numbers are a little concerning - especially the amplitude.
The seller is up front, selling it as is and recommending a service.
My question is, given these numbers, do you think this will be an expensive service to bring the watch back into some kind of accurate condition?
Many thanks!
17447466847248341355586282460760.webp
 
Davidt
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Impossible to tell from that info I’d say. Could well just be dry and in need of a standard service.
Do you have a picture of the movement?
 
N
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Thanks.
Unfortunately not. I guess there is going to be some element of risk with this...
 
amikoyan
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N nigewilson
Thanks.
Unfortunately not. I guess there is going to be some element of risk with this...
Most watchmakers will appraise your watch for a small fee. Then they'll quote for the work. If you say no, you just lose the appraisal fee. Which I suppose offers little comfort before you buy it.
Edited:
 
Davidt
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I’ve just shelled out several grand for a watch with poor pictures and no movement shot as the seller couldn’t open it. It’s a risk, but with a movement shot and better pictures it would have sold for more.

You need to determine your risk appetite, assess the likelihood of ‘winning’ the gamble on any watch you’re considering, then decide whether to go for it.
 
N
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amikoyan amikoyan
Most watchmakers will appraise your watch for a small fee. Then they'll quote for the work. If you say no, you just lose the appraisal fee. Which I suppose offers little comfort before you buy it.
Good advice - thanks
 
N
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Davidt Davidt
Screenshot_20250415_211851_Chrome.webp
I’ve just shelled out several grand for a watch with poor pictures and no movement shot as the seller couldn’t open it. It’s a risk, but with a movement shot and better pictures it would have sold for more.

You need to determine your risk appetite, assess the likelihood of ‘winning’ the gamble on any watch you’re considering, then decide whether to go for it.
Yes, risk appetite just about sums it up... Here are some other photos - obviously not revealing what is going on inside!
 
N
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N nigewilson
Yes, risk appetite just about sums it up... Here are some other photos - obviously not revealing what is going on inside!
Screenshot_20250415_211803_Chrome.webp
 
Dan S
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Buying unserviced old watches always involves risk. The amplitude may not be an issue after a service, but you could end up needing several hundred dollars worth of parts for other reasons. Sometimes it’s just a simple service, other times it’s a setting lever and an autoreverser. You never know.
 
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