How do I explain to my trusty Hanhart that has been an almost permanent fixture on my wrist for the past two years that he is going to be having a break for a while? A big thank you to all the posters here (especially Spacefruit) who give us the knowledge to go out there and have the confidence to make the right decisions (hopefully). It took me along time to find the right one and now I can begin to understand how addictive Speedys can become - I have 11 months and 30 days to find my next 78!! I apologise for the quality of the images - as a photographer I am off to the corner to stand and reflect and hang my head in shame.
That's a solid foundation on which to build. Is it the ubiquitous 105.003-65, or were you lucky to find a -64 (or earlier)? Even from your photo (not entirely bad, so come out of the corner), I see an honest patina and an excellent example of the breed. Congratulations. And yeah, tough to retire that Hanhart for any period of time... So are there plans for number two of 79, or will you just know when you see it? My vote is for a 105.012-66 in a CB case with well-defined flat lugs (my favorite), or a nice bevel-back 105.012-65 (or earlier Professional, my second favorite). Good luck with the disease, I mean, Speedmaster hunt (same thing really)!
Thanks TE - yes it is the 105.003-65. I have owned the Hanhart for a number of years (well actually 4 of them!) and it is a pretty reliable watch - it has endured temperatures of +55 deg in the desert in the Middle East and -40 deg last winter in Central Asia. It also spent 6 months travelling around the UK and Ireland with me in my 1964 VW camper. It could probably do with the rest! I do not have firm plans for the second Speedy as yet but agree that the 105.012-66 would be a good partner. I will know the right one when it finds me!!
I started with a 105.003-65 too, and within a couple of short months I'm up to three Speedmasters (+ other Omegas!). You're done for - or at least, your wallet is. You've picked yourself up a beautiful watch - Welcome!