...and why did Omega produce this reference up to that year, when they were already manufacturing the next reference? I understand that most 'Ed Whites' are '63 to '66.

 

Generally assumed they were using up the older straight lug cases. These were probably not as popular after the asymmetrical case came out and so sold more slowly.

It's not all that rare at all. The -65 is by far the most common sub reference and many of these with extracts are shown to be from 66, 67 and into 68. Presumably they had a large stock of -65 casebacks and didn't bother creating any subsequent ones.

 

Ed White, 105.003-65, Date of Purchase April 22, 1967. I think MWO indicates that the "65" was sold all the way to "69".

 

The -65 would indicate the manufacturing date (year) of the case. They did not put together complete watches before they needed (aka sold) them. Cases are really not that expensive compared to the movement they later had to install.

 

http://speedmaster101.com/105-003/

 

Now a 145.003, that's a rare bird!

 

Thanks all for the comments and input. That clears things up nicely and makes a lot of sense.

Much appreciated!