Seeking advice on a 2374-5 - is this a redial?

Dear OF members

I'm refocusing my efforts on a hunt for an early bumper with sub-dial. After researching on OF and elsewhere I've decided to go for a 2374, the first of its kind.

I've come a cross the following example offered online. What I like about the watch is the fact the serial number is below 10 mn, which dates it to 1943, and thus makes it a rather rare bird I believe, and particularly the dial design.

And here lies the crucial question: Is it a redial? The Omega script and the hour and minute marks are solid black. Is this even realistic for a watch that is almost 80 years old? Plus the golden applied hour marks are not always aligned with the black hour marks or the distance is not even, e.g. 3 o'clock vs. 9 o'clock. Are these inaccuracies not uncommon for watches from that time period or a clear sign of a redial?

If the dial is legit, there are two other caveats. Firstly, a minor one in my view, is the crown that is most likely not original to the watch as it is signed, and AFAIK crowns in the early 40s were not signed and had a hat shape (for the lack of a better word).

The second drawback is the missing locking ring or bezel on the back, unfortunately quite common for this reference offered online. As discussed in other threads it's not easy to source such a ring as the part is no longer produced. The only way I see is to source a beaten down example as a resource for parts that does have the ring. I probably have to factor in 300/400 EUR/USD additionally for that. Worth the pain?

Any other red/yellow flags?

Finally the price. It's currently being offered at EUR 1030, in range with the most recent examples sold here on OF. The price is negotiable, and I would definitely try to negotiate it down, in particular because of the missing ring. What do you think is reasonable, EUR 800/850/900?

@KingCrouchy , I also like to hear your opinion, as you seem to have spent at least the last two years collecting this reference.

Many thanks!

Minute markers don’t line up, looks like it’s deceiving photography just look at the movement photo.

Typical dealer refurbished in my book.

And way too expensive if it’s the Etsy one I think it is

Likely missing caseback ring, no? Stay away imho.

Yes.

Thanks guys, you saved me from a costly bad move. Easy pass. I wish I could offer you a round of beers!

Pricewise, I tried to do some market research (it may not seem like it), and prices are all over the place. Of course there are the lucky ones that snatch one below EUR 500, but based on the most recent sales here on OF, is EUR 1000-1100 to be expected for an example in a good condition?

I was first offered an example by a local independent watchmaker with Omega certification (so it comes serviced), serial < 10mn, with original papers and box and even a handwritten purchase and service log by the original owner for shy of EUR 1500, and I thought it was too expensive. But maybe it is not, factoring everything in?

Thanks Dries. Yes, going forward I will disregard any without the ring. I don't want to venture into the project watch endeavours hoping to source missing parts later on.

Yes, I saw it on Etsy. The dealer only had positive reviews, but apparently that‘s worth as much as dirt under my fingernails.

Despite what some say about buying the seller, I always go on whether or not I like the watch and will wear it.