Speedmaster Professional MKII - 1974
Discussion
I've recently inherited my dads 1974 Speedmaster MKII. He was gifted it by my Granddad for his 18th Birthday back in '75. My Granddad bought this second hand from Lotus Cars, Norwich in '74.
I believe it's mostly original and only had one service in it's life where it was sent to Switzerland but my father can't remember what was carried out. Everything appears to be working still.
The watch is 145.014
Strap is a 1153
Whilst it obviously holds sentimental value, in that i'll never sell it and will gift it to my offspring one day. I hold no value to the condition as it's had a tough life, i'll let the pictures do the talking.
The case is shot and needs laser welding and lapping to the original starburst design. I've found two companies who seem recommended for this, STS and WatchWorks.
I'd also want a new crystal as it's scratched beyond repair.
The dials is what i'm uncertain on. The lume at 12 is very faded, and 9 has some sort of oil on it and around that area of the dial. Do I leave the dial as is, have this refurbished or even replaced? Do I go balls out and go for a racing dial? What about the hands?
Any advice on how best to proceed would be great.
I believe it's mostly original and only had one service in it's life where it was sent to Switzerland but my father can't remember what was carried out. Everything appears to be working still.
The watch is 145.014
Strap is a 1153
Whilst it obviously holds sentimental value, in that i'll never sell it and will gift it to my offspring one day. I hold no value to the condition as it's had a tough life, i'll let the pictures do the talking.
The case is shot and needs laser welding and lapping to the original starburst design. I've found two companies who seem recommended for this, STS and WatchWorks.
I'd also want a new crystal as it's scratched beyond repair.
The dials is what i'm uncertain on. The lume at 12 is very faded, and 9 has some sort of oil on it and around that area of the dial. Do I leave the dial as is, have this refurbished or even replaced? Do I go balls out and go for a racing dial? What about the hands?
Any advice on how best to proceed would be great.
bristolbaron said:
Beauty! Glad you found Watchworks - It’s my stepfathers place. He loves a speedy 2, the only thing outside of Rolex that gets genuine excitement! 
I do understand the ‘value’ of wear and tear, but they do come up lovely when restored:
Hi Bristolbaron! I bought a car from you years ago I do understand the ‘value’ of wear and tear, but they do come up lovely when restored:
My friend sent his watch there which came up beautifully - which gave me the idea. I've had a good quote back for a full refurbishment of the case, bracelet, service and crystal. Just awaiting cost back for the dial as it may not be salvageable.
I'm thinking it's my watch now. Refurbishment is part of the history in my eyes.
you lucky bugger!!!
That is the exact same model and year as my Father's Speedie which he got for himself (and a nice gold omega for Mum) when i was born in 1974.
Sadly he passed away 2 years ago, and some s
te in the care home nicked it.
Lovely watch, wear it and enjoy it whatever condition it is in!
That is the exact same model and year as my Father's Speedie which he got for himself (and a nice gold omega for Mum) when i was born in 1974.
Sadly he passed away 2 years ago, and some s
te in the care home nicked it. Lovely watch, wear it and enjoy it whatever condition it is in!
WizzBang said:
Forgot to say: OP, I'd leave the dial alone - but that's my general preference.
No it isn't.It's the preference of just about every watch collector.
Definitely get it serviced & change the crystal.
Do what you want to the case, refurb or not.
But for gods sake don't change the dial or hands. They're in pretty good shape.
Nobody want's Trigger's broom.
[jealous] Nice watch by the way. [/jealous]
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