They say there’s no such thing as a cheap Speedmaster, and this piece proves it! While scrolling fee-bay a few years ago, I came across a listing for what appeared to be a neglected mid ‘80s Speedmaster at a price that seemed too good to be true. From the few grainy photos provided, it was clear the watch needed some TLC. The wheels began to turn! I thought to myself the price was so low that even after factoring in the cost of a service the watch would be a steal. A few clicks later and it was mine! When it arrived, it was soon clear I may have a made a terrible mistake.
Not shown in the listing photos nor disclosed by the seller was a dial that had been “re-lumed” (I use the term charitably), hands that had been repainted by Benjamin-Moore, and a movement literally held together by glue. Despite these issues, I decided restoring a vintage-ish Speedmaster might be a fun project, and that it probably wouldn’t cost thousands of dollars. It was soon clear I may have made another terrible mistake.
After spending several months in Archer’s care, and after spending several thousand dollars on parts and labour, my cheap Speedmaster was cheap no more. Though it’s now beautifully restored and mechanically sound, I’ve decided to sell it on as it’s just not getting any wrist time. Needless to say, I probably won’t be using the proceeds to fund another Speedmaster project!
Overall Condition is very good.
Movement #4713XXXX suggests mid-1985 production. Calibre 861; manual wind. Comprehensive service by Archer in 2023; watch keeps time within spec and functions properly. Original parts replaced during Archer’s service are included with the sale.
The dial is excellent. Correct genuine vintage C3 replacement with “tall and open S” stamped logo and short indices. No discernible lume loss; tritium lume has a pleasing pumpkin coloured patina. The original dial is also included in the sale, though as noted it has been “re-lumed” rather amateurishly.
The hands are new Omega service replacements.
The bezel is excellent. Correct genuine vintage B2 DNN / dot close to 70. Though not original to the watch, it’s one of the nicest B2 bezels I’ve seen.
The crystal is a signed Omega hesalite service replacement.
The case is good. Manufactured by CRS (Charles-Rodolphe Spillmann) Though the lines are still present, it shows obvious signs of polishing. There are a few minor dings and flea bites here and there.
The case back is good. Obvious signs of wear and polishing. Correct Hippocampus logo and ST 145022 / CRS markings.
The pushers and crown are Omega service replacements.
Offered on the Omega 1171/633 service bracelet pictured, though other strap and bracelet options can be discussed. Red Omega “pill” case included.
Asking $6499 + insured shipping via FlagShip. F2F in the London area also possible.
Positive feedback here on CWC and references available if required. Please do not hesitate to ask further questions or request additional photos. Cheers!
Not shown in the listing photos nor disclosed by the seller was a dial that had been “re-lumed” (I use the term charitably), hands that had been repainted by Benjamin-Moore, and a movement literally held together by glue. Despite these issues, I decided restoring a vintage-ish Speedmaster might be a fun project, and that it probably wouldn’t cost thousands of dollars. It was soon clear I may have made another terrible mistake.
After spending several months in Archer’s care, and after spending several thousand dollars on parts and labour, my cheap Speedmaster was cheap no more. Though it’s now beautifully restored and mechanically sound, I’ve decided to sell it on as it’s just not getting any wrist time. Needless to say, I probably won’t be using the proceeds to fund another Speedmaster project!
Overall Condition is very good.
Movement #4713XXXX suggests mid-1985 production. Calibre 861; manual wind. Comprehensive service by Archer in 2023; watch keeps time within spec and functions properly. Original parts replaced during Archer’s service are included with the sale.
The dial is excellent. Correct genuine vintage C3 replacement with “tall and open S” stamped logo and short indices. No discernible lume loss; tritium lume has a pleasing pumpkin coloured patina. The original dial is also included in the sale, though as noted it has been “re-lumed” rather amateurishly.
The hands are new Omega service replacements.
The bezel is excellent. Correct genuine vintage B2 DNN / dot close to 70. Though not original to the watch, it’s one of the nicest B2 bezels I’ve seen.
The crystal is a signed Omega hesalite service replacement.
The case is good. Manufactured by CRS (Charles-Rodolphe Spillmann) Though the lines are still present, it shows obvious signs of polishing. There are a few minor dings and flea bites here and there.
The case back is good. Obvious signs of wear and polishing. Correct Hippocampus logo and ST 145022 / CRS markings.
The pushers and crown are Omega service replacements.
Offered on the Omega 1171/633 service bracelet pictured, though other strap and bracelet options can be discussed. Red Omega “pill” case included.
Asking $6499 + insured shipping via FlagShip. F2F in the London area also possible.
Positive feedback here on CWC and references available if required. Please do not hesitate to ask further questions or request additional photos. Cheers!