After buying my first Omega recently (a modern Seamaster 300), I think I would also like to have a vintage Speedmaster to complement it. I'm in no particular hurry, but this one came up the other day so I thought I'd ask the assembled experts here what you think of both the watch and the price: https://www.crownandcaliber.com/buy...er-professional-moonwatch-145-022-69-erp16235 Thanks!
Couple issues, the watch is somewhat overpriced. From most valuable: -Bezel's wrong -Hands are probably newer service replacements -Dial lume looks like it could be scraped off, but also may be original -Caseback looks like the engraving is completely worn off (though may just be because of photos) -Crown's wrong -Case is a bit pitted
IMO, a lot of the appeal of a vintage Speedy is lost on this one. Bezel and hands are replacements, not much lume on the dial, and the other items abrod520 has pointed out. It seems like it might be an honest, but tired watch. If it were my money, I think you'd be much better off waiting for a better example to come along. Many do here from sellers like @Kringkily
Why is the bezel wrong? I was under the impression that the later 145.022-69s had dot next to ninety bezels (without an accent over the TACHYMETRE). I'm new to all of this, but I have spent a significant amount of time combing through old listings. You can definitely get a 145.022-69 pre-moon caseback with original parts and a nice patina in that price range. Also, I would have a tough time buying without seeing the movement and serial #.
Generally the -69s (esp. pre-moons) should have DO90 bezels as all evidence I'm aware of points to the DN90 appearing around the same time as the early "straight writing" models. It's not impossible that some later ones would have a DN90 ("it's not impossible" being a key operator for anything vintage Speedmaster!) but I'd personally be looking for the DO90 on any pre-moon Speedmaster.
Yeah, this bezel is correct for the later -69 even with the smooth back. This emphasizes the need for movement/serial pictures. New hands and bad dial condition make it not worth the asking price anyways.
Its what you get from a dealer who doesn't want to spend a cent on his watch, nor his photography apparently. The OP watch is tired, and in spite of the "45 point inspection" will probably need a service. These can still be found on ebay for around $2000, then serviced. This is what a nice one looks like (@Archer serviced it) :