Speedmaster 176.016 - Looks pretty crisp!

Good Morning,

I own a number of modern pieces, including a seamaster 300 & aqua terra. For a while I've been after a Speedmaster, but with a bit of a different flavour to the flight qualified variants. I came across Chuck's article on the 1045 based mk4.5 & variants and really enjoyed the added complications, modern day sizing and interesting dial colours in a vintage piece. I recently found the below 176.0016 for sale and to me it looks crisp and in great condition, especially the brushing, but as my first vintage piece I wanted to check I wasn't overlooking anything! The only downside is the exclusion of the original bracelet but in my mind I prefer them on leather anyway.



Thanks,
Pete

If you look at the round part of the case, around the date, there looks to be a dink in the metal. Nothing surprising there considering the age of the watch, but with the perfect brushing, I would say the case brushing as been redone. It might be something, it might be nothing, I suppose it depends on price and if that bothers you or not. I think I would pass on this one, unless it was being offered at a great price.

A very nice example, even with the abrasion on the inner-case. No mention of any service. I saw that the bracelet is no big deal to you. At $2814.00 ++ USD it would be an issue for me. I want the complete package, but that's me. Try and find a bracelet. They are not cheap. If you are in Great Britain I think you have a VAT as well? so this watch is well over $3000 USD. That is a bit high. They come up on Ebay from time to time and are usually around $2000 USD +- 3-400. Good luck

Definitely looks to me that the case brushing wwas done by someone with a heavy hand

Thanks guys - seems like a pass then! I was wondering with the brushing being so pronounced as to whether it was either really good condition or refinished - what was the giveaway pointing towards a refinish? Too deep for original?

Thanks,
Pete

Here's a video if anyone is interested.

Pete

I think if you like the watch then go for it. The brush work looks good but the grain looks different to other pieces from the era. Also the lume on the hands, dial and 24 clock may or may not go together. As pointed out there is dent on the bezel and a couple of small dents, but considering this watch is from the middle to late 70's , The price is not outrageous. These issues of matching lume, case condition, movement originality, parts availability are all issues when purchasing any vintage watches. Also, unless I missed it, I do not see the serial number on the watchcase, or case back. If you want Omega archive documentation, I don't know if it would be available.

I’ve never seen a 176.016 case with such a brushed finish. Personally, if you’re in the UK I’d also try and source one with the days in English, albeit may be harder to find.