Hi Guys, want to share this Speedy just recd from a generous friend.
68 case back, 861 w/ 26.55 serial, later bezel. Been a long time since I had a Speedmaster on my wrist, this is my first vintage example. Only had it for a few days but seriously can't stop looking at the dial, lugs and case.
Thanks for looking
Russ

 

That is in immaculate condition!! Even the DNN bezel is flawless. I need to find some friends like that!

 

Was it supposed to have a DON bezel ?

 

I will let the experts advise but my research says it should have a DON.

 

Looks like a beautiful dial and matching handset there. Congrats

 

It will be difficult to find one that matches the condition of the watch.

 

Man! I have a near contemporary @ 265571XX...Not anywhere near the condition of yours. My bezel was replaced too.

 

Looking at yours I'm wondering now if my chrono second hand was replaced at some point. I thought the squared off end was correct...

 

Let me clarify my earlier post, yes it is supposed to have a DON bezel. The OP states that it has a later bezel, I was just saying that the one that's on his watch is very nice. I believe it's also supposed to have the square end chrono that first appeared on the late serial 145.012-67 but I suppose it's possible to have the spear. @Spacefruit what say you??

 

It should have a DON yes but really... who cares, enjoy your beautiful speedy. A brown bracelet really fits well these speedies. I'm going to make myself a Brown croc strap next week. Or ostrich.

 

I look forward to hearing experts advice if only square end chrono hands were fitted to 145s w 68 casebacks and in the 26 mil range.

 

Nice pictures, looks stunning

 

The square end is the norm on the transitionals, but I believe @gemini4 has an early transitional with the drop end chrono that he believes is also correct. I'm not sure if that's correct or not, but I know he is pretty knowledgable so it's good enough for me!

 

Looks great and the dial looks immaculate. Congratulations!

 

wow. speechless.

 

The seller I purchased this 145.022-68 from stated it was all original as he was the first owner. Movement number is early at 26559xxx. MWO indicates that the chrono drop seconds hand was a ?. That being said, other 68s with similar early movement numbers have flat chrono hands. I believe this to be the original configuration. It is rare however.

 

Very nice transitional, congrats! The case, dial and hands are beautiful; very similar condition to my 145.022-69 and on the same strap

Speedmaster101.com says that both the drop end and square end chrono hand are correct on the reference. Now all you need is a pristine DON bezel to make it perfect

 

Love the patina

 

Thanks for the kind comments guys!
this is a lug shot taken from the prior owner - if you are a case guy - you will love this one

 

Beautiful watch Russ