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View Full Version : My New (OLD) Speedmaster Professional


JeanFolarin
July 17th, 2009, 22:12
My grandfather recently passed away, we’re talking 5 years or so. He had an Old Speedmaster Professional “moonwatch”. This was the watch that I idolised as a kid. I asked my mum recently “whatever happed to grandpa’s watch?” I received it last week! I love the watch!

I examined the watch meticulously. I was surprised how light the strap was in comparison to my OMEGA Planet Ocean. SERIOUSLY LIGHT! I was also surprised with the glass, which was covered in light scratches and looked like plastic!

I’m embarrassed to say – I actually thought it was a fake!

I went onto Wikipedia and did some reading, I then found this website

http://www.speedmaster-mission.net/ (http://www.speedmaster-mission.net/)

What an EXCELLENT site! I have learned soooo much about watches in general and Speedmaster in particular over the last week – I’M HOOKED!

Since then, I now know that
· the bracelet is actually the vintage style 1171 bracelet.
· The “glass” is actually Hesalite crystal.
· The medallion is stamped on the back with circular inscriptions Flight-Qualified by NASA for all Manned Missions - The First Watch Worn on the Moon. 1973?
Bla bla bla…

I have decided to send the watch off to be restored with OMEGA Bienne, Switzerland. I’m waiting for a quotation, its gon’a be real expensive!!! Ouch!

I also asked for Omega’s Kevlar strap – gorgeous! I CANT WAIT!

I think its definatly worth it - a timepece with such
soul and history.

:-)

JeanFolarin
July 17th, 2009, 22:15
I'll try and sort out some pictures...

southisland
July 18th, 2009, 00:12
As you say, the Speedmaster has soul and history. Your's also has a personal connection to your grandfather. That's unbeatable! I can see why you are investing in a Bienne restoration. Post some photos when it returns!

JeanFolarin
July 18th, 2009, 00:53
As you say, the Speedmaster has soul and history. Your's also has a personal connection to your grandfather. That's unbeatable! I can see why you are investing in a Bienne restoration. Post some photos when it returns!

I will sort something out.

I'm curious to see just what they can do!

I’ve also got one or two before pictures

:thanks

shappy692
July 18th, 2009, 01:34
If the dial/hands/crown/tachy is in good condition make sure bienne doesnt replace them.

JeanFolarin
July 19th, 2009, 00:03
If the dial/hands/crown/tachy is in good condition make sure bienne doesnt replace them.

Unfortunately the watch is in terrible condition, here are the before pictures...
:-s

JeanFolarin
July 19th, 2009, 00:11
201947

201948

201949

201950

201951

NMGE17
July 20th, 2009, 12:43
Great story - I believe you should ask for the peices they replace back as it will keep the watch complete for the future.

Nigel

JeanFolarin
July 20th, 2009, 13:18
Great story - I believe you should ask for the peices they replace back as it will keep the watch complete for the future.

Nigel

Yep, that’s what I intend to do...
I want to get the proper OMEGA Kevlar strap - just so that I have some variety because I already have a stainless bracelet on my PO. I intend to keep all old parts including the old vintage 1171 strap. I am ding to see transformation!

jmsrolls
July 20th, 2009, 14:36
Great watch, great story! :-!

Congratulations and welcome to the SPOC:

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a374/jmsrolls/watches/SpeedyProClub-1.jpg

Fr. John†