Speedmaster 145.022-68, assessment questions (updated pictures!)?

Wow. That's some talent!

Jose Perez, the internet slueth who exposed the 3million dollar Phillips auction speedy, made a comment that hasn't been discussed much. People focused on his analysis of the fraudulent watch, but ignored his comments about vintage watches and restoration. He said it's just a fact that these watches are deteriorating and will continue to do so. The collector community should be more like the vintage car community that values a high quality restoration of a vehicle. Jose said there are real artists who do unimaginable work on a watch. Rather than reducing the value of a watch, a watch worked on by one of these quality restorers should be more desirable.

It makes sense. Your watch is much more attractive now.

Well, that's a story.

No, I sold it to a member here. I wasn't planning on it, but we had become friends and he wanted a 68. I had my eye on another member's straight lug so decided to let my 68 go to a new home. He and his teenage son love it, so it's in a good place.

Then I went to a watch show and saw another 68. It had a dark dial that reminded me of a 145.012 that I regretted selling. So I bought it. Overpaid for it, as I guess I allowed emotions to cloud my thinking.

I love the 68 and the idea of transitionals. Its like you're getting two watches in one. The AML, step dial, long indicies, aged tritium, nothing better. Plus the cheaper servicing of the 861 (may be even a better movement than the 321, which I know is blasphemy.)

I did manage to buy the straight lug, also a transitional, 105.002. But I don't have it yet as I am on the payment plan. It seems you can't spend your watch budget money twice, unfortunately. I think I'll be set speedywise, with my 1861 retirement watch, the 861 and soon to be 321. But I need a DON bezel, as the dash 68 is missing it.

Can't keep up with you, though. You're a machine! I enjoy reading about your finds and treasures.

My new/old 68: