Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch 1971 Speedmaster - Straight Writing
You are viewing a stunning, well-preserved and original Omega 145.022 showing the rare "straight writing" variation of text on the caseback.
History
The watch was delivered to the UK in 1971 and has not left since. The watch came to me through Maunder Watches of Burlington Arcade and I have all the usual proof of ownership (not shown photographed in this listing). I was informed the previous owner had their own Omega boutique and that this piece was something of a crown jewel. In fact, I also have some coffee-stained press release papers the previous owner obtained while attending an official Omega event a few years back - happy to include these too.
Case
Unpolished and in very good condition - not just for its age. Photos are clear and highlight every minor imperfection, most of which are imperceivable at a typical time-reading distance.
Bracelet
The original 1039 flat link that came fitted to the watch, stamped 3-1971, along with the original 516 end links. This bracelet is full-length and would have fit around Andre the Giant's wrists. I have had two links professionally removed (included in the sale), one from either side of the bracelet. You can still clearly see the polished outer links vividly contrast with the brushed central links. Hardly any stretch and the clasp is nice and tight.
Dial
Flawless. Original stepped dial with printed logo - correct for the serial number.
Hands
Very good condition with only minor lume discolouration on part of the minute hand and some negligible paint loss about the centre of the chronograph hand.
Bezel
Very very good. The first year of the Dot beside the 90 variation being featured as standard, rather than as a service part, I believe - in any event this bezel is consistent with this serial number and its condition is commensurate with the rest of the watch.
Crystal
Immaculate so assuming it has been replaced at some point. It is an Omega glass however with the logo etched about the centre.
Movement
I was shown the movement whilst at Maunder Watches and it was, unsurprisingly, immaculate. I've not been able to remove the (also immaculate) dust cover myself so have not been able to photograph it here. Serial no. is printed on the Archive Extract.
Functionality
Perfect. Whilst I don't have a service record for it, I was reliably informed by Maunder Watches it had been serviced prior to my purchase. The gasket on the crown is so fresh it still exhibits friction during the first few turns of a wind.
Extras
Comes with proof of purchase from Maunder Watches, Archive Extract from Omega, Press Release papers belonging to previous owner, the original box and outer-box. The hinges on the box aren't great.
Whilst this is a superb example of the reference, I am not, truthfully, a Speedy purist. I prefer 50's dive watches and some of the more futuristic designs Omega produced in the late 60s and early 70s. Consequently I am open to offers of trade and/or part exchange for any or any combination of a:
- 105.003 (my favourite reference. If good condition I could throw in some cash your way)
145.012 (my second favourite reference)
Omega Bullhead (146.011)
Omega Ploprof; or
Zenith Chronomaster Original - white dial with blue/grey subdials
If you'd like to collect I live in the Surrey side of Kent (near Oxted, Tunbridge Wells etc) and work in London. Will travel only if convenient for me as I dont have all that much spare time.
