I was never a speedmaster kind of guy. In fact, it was the SM300 big triangle that drew me to Omega, yet today, I am lucky enough to own my first speedmaster and am still far away from owning my first SM300. After picking up Moonwatch Only, as well as speaking to many forum members, collectors, and enthusiasts, a spark for the pre-moon speedy was ignited and my love for it has grown. I became needy for a speedy, and the hunt for one was very real. But then this past weekend, my birthday weekend, the watch gods decided to throw me a bone, and I became the proud owner of this speedmaster 145.022 69. Flawless? Not entirely. The crystal is cracked and there are some nicks on the bezel. I prefer a heavier patina dial and lume than this baby has but other than all of that, for me it's perfect. It keeps time better than any watch I currently own. It even came on it's original bracelet and end links but I prefer it on a brown leather NATO. I'm wondering what you guys think of this speedy. Excited to hear about everyones opinions and thoughts on this, the bad with the good. Also does anyone know the best route to take to acquire and replace the crystal?
Looks damn awesome! Bezel is almost perfect and with a new crystal this will be one of the better looking -69STs!
Take it to a watchmaker with an Omega parts account and they will order you an OEM Omega crystal to replace the cracked one currently on the watch. After that, this one will be an extremely nice 69!!
Any familiarity or experience with Ofrei.com ? They seem to have the original crystal but I'm not sure if it's a trustworthy parts dealer.
They used to be able to buy OEM parts directly from Omega but that has now been cut off. They will sell the inventory they have remaining and then they're done. Of course, they have dramatically raised their prices on many items since they can no longer get any new parts. Your best bet is to find a watchmaker who has a parts account and have them order one for you directly from Omega. That, or maybe eBay if you're willing to live dangerously.
Great, thank you for the advice. I have yet to have a positive experience with any watchmaker on a vintage timepiece. Everyone in NYC seems to know what they're doing when it comes to modern watches, but the moment I put something of age on the table, everyone seems lost. I will take your advice and hope for the best.
Try to contact @Kringkily he's one of the most respected guys on this forum and I believe he's based in NY. Maybe he will know someone.
I have bought plenty of parts from them over the years. Most recently as a few months back. Only think I did not like is the huge shipping charge. Not a big deal if you buy several items, but kinda sucks when you buy a hand for $15 and it costs $15 to ship.
I'm honestly surprised with everyones feedback, I was almost certain someone would find something that needs fixing. It feels good to be wrong sometimes. Can't wait to change the crystal on this thing.
I'm noticing that some NOS crystals mean to fit the 145.022 case are sold with either a white ring or black ring. What does this ring mean? Which color is correct for this watch?
I believe the black ring is correct. The 2915, 2998, and 105.002 all had a silver rehaut (sp?) then they switched to black for all the rest.
A rehaut is something for the crystal to sit on, giving it space from the hands and dial, usually used with glass/sapphire crystal. On these Speedmasters, that ring is called the crystal tension ring, it's there to help keep the crystal tight in place.
Wow, congratulations! What a great find! I'd love to hear more of the story, if you're in a position to share? Totally understandable if you'd rather not though
lovely speedy, can't wait to see it with new crystal. How much is a replacement hesalite usually for a modern speedy?