Which Moonwatch Bracelet is this?

wagudc · Jan 30, 2023

I have been impressed with some of you all's abilities to identify watches from fuzzy old photos. So here is your chance. Which bracelet do you think this is? I am pretty sure all of the photos are of the same bracelet.

My dad said that the watch came on a leather strap that rotted away and he replaced it with a bracelet. When I inherited the watch it was on an ill-fitting aftermarket bracelet, which is definitely not the one in these pictures. All of these photos are from before I was born. There are some later photos with my Dad is wearing the Speedy on a strap. I think he forgot that it came on a bracelet which somehow got tossed and replaced with a strap. After the strap went, he put it on an aftermarket bracelet.

seekingseaquest · Jan 30, 2023

Assuming it was an Omega bracelet, my guess is 1039 or 1175.

wagudc · Jan 30, 2023

seekingseaquest
Assuming it was an Omega bracelet, my guess is 1039 or 1175.

That would be my guess as well given the year the watch was purchased (1971). There seems to be differing finishes on the pictured bracelet center links versus the outer links. I know the 1039 had inner links brushed and outer links polished. Did the 1175 have a similar finish, or was it all brushed like the 1171?

wagudc · Jan 30, 2023

1175 was all brushed according to this thread:

https://omegaforums.net/threads/omega-bracelet-1175-what-is-the-original-finish.27684/

Dash1 · Feb 1, 2023

Yup, pretty certain that would be a 1039.

gbesq · Feb 1, 2023

1175, most likely with 640 end links.

Dash1 · Feb 1, 2023

gbesq
1175, most likely with 640 end links.

I’m not so sure, the 1175 was all brushed whereas the OP one is polished/brushed like the 1039. Also bought in 1971 it would most likely be a -69 or earlier so the 1039/516 would be the best guess.

gbesq · Feb 1, 2023

Dash1
I’m not so sure, the 1175 was all brushed whereas the OP one is polished/brushed like the 1039. Also bought in 1971 it would most likely be a -69 or earlier so the 1039/516 would be the best guess.

I can't really tell from the photos whether the center links on that bracelet are polished (in which case I agree that it's likely a 1039) or whether it's simply light (or a camera flash) reflecting off the bracelet and making it look polished. Both the 1039/516 and the 1175/640 would be correct for the 1969 reference. Here's a photo of one of my 1175 bracelets. The links on the second photo look very much like an 1175 to me.

wagudc · Feb 1, 2023

I appreciate the contributions. I can confirm that the watch is a -69. Some of the pictures show wide dark regions between the links which suggest the rounded edges of an 1175. However, in other photos it really looks like there is a polished and brushed finish. Perhaps someone can somehow enhance the images digitally. I will try today.

Aludic · Feb 1, 2023

Based on the thickness of the links relative to the clasp, my vote goes to an 1175.

pdxleaf · Feb 21, 2024

Your Dad felt free to choose a different strap and bracelet. He probably would bless whichever you choose.

The 1175 looks so much like the vintage 1039 that it is difficult to determine which is which in these pictures. Because the 1175 is a lot cheaper (and more available), that is an argument in favor of the 1175.

The 1039 is more expensive but it is also more comfortable because of it's stretchable/spring links. If cost is not a factor, 1039 is a better option. But, cost and availability are real world concerns.

1175 bracelets are available in Japan. It might take a little time but someone like krogerfoot in Japan might be able to help you buy one off of yahoo auction english version.

Good luck with the hunt.

gbesq · Feb 21, 2024

IMO, the construction of the 1175 is more robust than the 1039 and the fit is quite comparable. The stretch links on the 1039 may enhance comfort, but the springs also wear out over time and need to be replaced. Sourcing those isn't getting any easier and replacing them isn't for the novice. I also find the 1039 to be very "jangly" whereas the 1175 feels more solid. When it comes to price, it's no contest. The 1175 is 1/3 to 1/2 the price of a 1039 and generally a lot easier to find in good condition.

Which Moonwatch Bracelet is this?

wagudc

seekingseaquest

wagudc

wagudc

Dash1

gbesq

Dash1

gbesq

wagudc

Aludic

pdxleaf

gbesq

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