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Speedmaster first buy help. 3861 or 145.022?

crd
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Speaking only for myself, I enjoy the overall classic aesthetic. The straight lugs and symmetrical case keep it simple. The matching alpha hands for the time with matching baton hands for the chronograph are very intentional. The missing Professional indication helps keep the dial face clean. While many of these design elements are a nod to the original 2998, the watch is not an outright replication. If you like the more traditional look with all the conveniences of a modern reliable build I don’t think you’ll find a better option at the price point.
 
Longbow
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@VisionOmega, I think it would be helpful, to us, if you just did a brain dump of the things you like the look/sound of and the things you definitely don‘t. Some things to consider
Straight lugs vs twisted,
symmetrical vs asymmetric case,
vintage aged Tritium lume vs more white Tritium vs white Luminova vs fauxtina (off-white modern Luminova)
Hesalite vs Sapphire crystal
Metal vs display caseback
Step vs flat dial
Tapered vs straight bracelet
Wide range of clasp adjustability vs close to none
With or without guarantee, box, papers etc
and all the other stuff that @padders referred to in Speedmaster 101 and Moonwatch Only.

I would also echo what @vicsdca said initially but, in my case for the exact opposite reasons. I much prefer the 3861 step dial over the late 80s/early 90s 861 and 1861 versions, likewise the thinner, tapering bracelet on the 3861 over the 1861…but the penalty here is little to no clasp adjustment.
ECF09260-4DCB-439D-94EC-5E038AF77551.jpeg

left to right: 861, 1861, 3861, all with hesalite crystals.
 
ahartfie
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Addressing OP's original question, I'd go for the 3861. Enjoy a pristine new watch with reliability and a warranty as you take your time learning about vintage references for a possible future purchase.

After I bought my Square Side and got a hankering for the Professional, I started looking at vintage references (which back in 2016 were cheap by today's standards). I realized I could get a birth-year watch or a brand new one for the same amount of money. Since the heritage and the history of the watch don't outweigh my pragmatic considerations, I went with the brand new sapphire sandwich, and have no regrets at all.
 
VisionOmega
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Interesting @rootbeer7. This must be a 3590.50. Love the caliber for this model and the bezel with the dot beneath 70. This is definitely one I’m having on the shortlist.
Can you tell me more about its current state? Price reference? Does it come with a bracelet?
 
rootbeer7
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VisionOmega VisionOmega
Interesting @rootbeer7. This must be a 3590.50. Love the caliber for this model and the bezel with the dot beneath 70. This is definitely one I’m having on the shortlist.
Can you tell me more about its current state? Price reference? Does it come with a bracelet?
It’s condition is exactly as the images in the link as it’s been worn sparingly since I bought it March 2020. Of course I’d be happy to share new ones. No bracelet, but a lovely leather band.
 
VisionOmega
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Besides the bracelet, you know if the watch is fully original? What price are you having in mind? In all honesty, I prefer one with bracelet. Big bonus if it comes with box and papers. It’s a plus, but not very uncommon.
 
rootbeer7
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VisionOmega VisionOmega
Besides the bracelet, you know if the watch is fully original? What price are you having in mind? In all honesty, I prefer one with bracelet. Big bonus if it comes with box and papers. It’s a plus, but not very uncommon.
I’ll send a message
 
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