Speedmaster hunt. 1st Vintage

[yld2rob]

Well after being a new watch only collector, I have decided to focus on getting a Omega Speedmaster. I have been doing a lot of reading and looking all over the net. I am looking for a watch that has some special attrubutes. (Like the 1968/1969 861 transitional (applied logo, long markers etc..) I am willing to spend up to $5,000. I want something worn and vintage looking with original parts, but not a watch that looks like it has been run over by a truck.

Suggestions??

[watchcrank]

There are many to choose from. Just make sure parts are original to watch and not newer replacement service parts. A straight lug is pretty nice too. As to the transitional you can find a wonderful piece for less than your limit on this forum imho. Luck with chase. M

[yld2rob]

Thanks. Looks like a waiting game for the perfect piece.

Originally Posted by watchcrank

There are many to choose from. Just make sure parts are original to watch and not newer replacement service parts. A straight lug is pretty nice too. As to the transitional you can find a wonderful piece for less than your limit on this forum imho. Luck with chase. M

[flyinghell34]

Originally Posted by yld2rob

Thanks. Looks like a waiting game for the perfect piece.

Yes, waiting is the key but the hardest part. The Transitional '68-'69's come up on various forums every few weeks in my experience because I'm always looking for them and some are better than others. For what you have set aside to spend finding an great piece in nice condition should not be a problem if you a little patient. My only advice is to look for a '68 with the raised logo. I think by '69 the raised logo was gone and having the raised logo, in the opinion of many, is what really makes the 861 (1968) truly and transitional piece.

[yld2rob]

Thanks for the information. I'll keep looking. I am looking for a really nice one with the applied logo and in top condition.

Originally Posted by flyinghell34

Yes, waiting is the key but the hardest part. The Transitional '68-'69's come up on various forums every few weeks in my experience because I'm always looking for them and some are better than others. For what you have set aside to spend finding an great piece in nice condition should not be a problem if you a little patient. My only advice is to look for a '68 with the raised logo. I think by '69 the raised logo was gone and having the raised logo, in the opinion of many, is what really makes the 861 (1968) truly and transitional piece.

[TurboWatch]

Originally Posted by yld2rob

Well after being a new watch only collector, I have decided to focus on getting a Omega Speedmaster. I have been doing a lot of reading and looking all over the net. I am looking for a watch that has some special attrubutes. (Like the 1968/1969 861 transitional (applied logo, long markers etc..) I am willing to spend up to $5,000. I want something worn and vintage looking with original parts, but not a watch that looks like it has been run over by a truck.

Suggestions??

Whether it's straight-lug, pre-moon 321 ( raised logo ) or pre-moon 861, they are all great. Prices for these have been creeping up in the last couple of years, but that doesn't mean you have to jump in head first now.

Here're 2 of mine:

[Tudor66]

Yes, the prices have risen on the old Omega's. I have owned 5, here is the last one I sold (1974)- Why do I keep buying then selling them, because my wrists are too dam skinny to wear this sized watch, but I love the classic look...This picture will explain...

My issues aside, these are great timepieces, manual wind, classic look, everyone should own one of these vintage Omegas.

[yld2rob]

Those are very nice examples. I will cross my fingers something good comes up soon.