Speedmaster "Chocolate" 311.30 with sapphire crystal

[archeophoto]

Hi all,
I always wanted a Speedmaster because of the amazing history of the watch. I know quite a bit about the older Speedys with the hesalite Chrystals. But the newer one with the Sapphire crystals I didn't read that much about. Now there is one for sale locally for around $3000. It has all the papers etc. It looks to be in very nice shape. Do you think that is an ok deal?

Do those "Chocolate" Speedys have a different movement as the regular ones because of the see-through-back?
What else was changed in the newer Speedys with sapphire crystal?

I was always very reluctant to get a Speedmaster because of the Hesalite Crystal. All the watches I have with plastic crystals scratch like crazy, so sapphire would interest me a lot.

If you have a "Chocolate" Speedy, how do you like it?

Thanks
Herbert

[kymwatchlog]

The choc speedy is a unique piece. but as some pointed out, the sapphire actually create this grey hue around the crystal. the brown takes some acquired taste.

but u can't go wrong with any speedy imo.

[jmsrolls]

All of the current display back Speedies have the upgraded 1863 movements.

And kymwatchlog is correct about the grey "halo" at the edge of the crystal adjacent to the bezel. Here is the "chocolate" Speedy that I once owned:



I've owned a couple of dozen Speedy Pros over the years and much prefer the warmer look and feel of the hesalite. Hesalite scratches are an non-issue IMO. I think I have polished the crystal on my vintage 105.012 only once in the eight years I have owned it. A little Polywatch and a couple of minutes of polishing is all it takes to have the crystal looking like new.

But as kymwatchlog said, you can't go wrong with a Speedy Pro.

[shoota70]

I tried on a chocolate Speedy yesterday. I was not very impressed with the real life color of the chocolate dial.

[dsio]

Originally Posted by shoota70

I tried on a chocolate Speedy yesterday. I was not very impressed with the real life color of the chocolate dial.

Its too light brown, if it were a darker chocolate it'd be more appropriate, and if it had hesalite

[archeophoto]

I met with the seller today and the watch is absolutely stunning. I hope to finalize the deal on Thursday as payday is just around the corner. I love everything about the watch. The dial color, the display back, beautiful! This will be a great addition to my Submariner.
Let's hope everything works out and I can post photos soon. As you can tell I'm a bit excited!

[Transient]

beautiful pics...

[shoota70]

I hope you get it!!!

Please posty pics when you can.

[bewithabob]

I think that is a fine looking piece.

[Kringkily]

It's a beautiful watch. If you like the look get it!

[kymwatchlog]

better to check out one in person!

[mikkolopez]

I like the chocolate dial on this Speedy. A more warmer look IMO. The sapphire front and clear caseback is a welcome change.

[archeophoto]

And here it is. I'm absolutely thrilled! The best thing: It was a local face to face deal with a good guy. Can't beat that

[jmsrolls]

Beautiful!

Congratulations.