Hi all, I have an inherited awesome 145.022 74, which I am falling more in love with as each day goes by, due to all of the great advice & info from members of this tops forum. I will attach some photo's below of my bracelet, but after some research I'm still unsure why it is so sort after, any comments would be much appreciated....
It's the period correct bracelet for the later, Professional 321 and early 861 Speedmasters, which have increased in value over the last couple of years. Many people (me included), think the flat link bracelets such as this are also the best aesthetic fit for the Speedmaster. From the introduction on the 1171 in the early 70's, most Speedmaster Pro bracelets had rounded links that had a different looks. There is also a chain of thought that suggests that these bracelets are quite flimsy and so not a huge amount have survived, adding to the rarity. Personally I disagree with this, I just think they were well engineered to do a job well and don't adhere to the modern practise of adding weight to make something feel artificially durable.
I too love the slim look, flat link bracelet, not that I have seen a 1171 in person yet. The 1171 looks a little bulkier & rounder edges to me, but each to there own. I don't know if you could see in the photo, but mine has a link that is broken & I was wanting to get it repaired. Should I just get a link taken out to get it repaired at a local jeweler. .....
I think they simply look great on a speedy and weren't in production that long. So with all the pre moon craziness people are looking for the period correct bracelet as well. You could shorten the bracelet for one link and take that one to repair it or you buy an additional link and fit it in.
Just figured it out................ Fixed !!!! What a feeling....... 1st Time Iv'e ever worn a Speedmaster......
This was me just on 2 years ago: - https://omegaforums.net/threads/question-about-1039-bracelet.25894/ when just taking baby steps here. Now that I am toddling I really like the 1039 and get it. It just works with the older watches. yes it still feels a bit flimsy, especially if I have had something a bit chunkier on before. They are beautiful and I am pleased I didnt let it go. I actually have one 145.022 on leather and the better one on the 1039. Oh happy days
It looks like you could take the two links under the clasp out and still have a good fit. Now they would be worth a pretty penny to someone here.
I would keep them, they will add value if you ever sell the watch and gives you options if you pile the weight on. Either way, they should stay with the watch.
To answer your question, I've seen a pair of spring links go for $100 to $150 a piece on eBay. To me, I'd keep them as spare parts or when selling the watch.
