Omega Speedmaster Professional Transitional Pre-Moon Ref. 145.022-68

[luxuwrist]

The caliber 321 powered Speedmasters are quickly becoming a very sought-after commodity among collectors, and for good reason. The classic styling with just the right amount of detail and perfect proportions are something that mostly carried into the later models, but the long hour markers and applied logo dial will always be the hallmarks of the 321 powered models, along with the column-wheel powered movements. Unfortunately, caliber 321s are becoming more difficult to maintain and service due to lack of parts availability. So what's a collector to do when they want the styling of the older models, but the reliability and easy maintenance of the later caliber 861 movement?

That's when the transitional model falls into place. For approximately a year, the reference 145.022-68 used the new at the time caliber 861 movement while retaining all the styling cues of the caliber 321 models. The importance of this as these watches eclipse the 50 year old mark is certainly being noticed as these rare transitional models are trending up in desirability along with their column-wheel brethren.

This example of the 145.022-68 is in excellent condition and has been well preserved. It features the original stepped dial and hands, with long hour indices and applied metal logo, as well as the original "flat foot" crown.

Condition is per the photos and as follows:

Case: Original 42mm case in excellent condition with sharp edges, crisp brushing and bright polished areas on the twisted lugs.

Bezel: Original dot over 90 configuration bezel with some scratching and surface wear as shown.

Dial/Hands: Original stepped dial with applied metal logo and long hour indices in excellent condition. The hour indices have developed to a wonderful creamy patina and have remained intact. The hands are also original tritium, with a slightly darker patina.

Caseback: Original pre-moon seamonster caseback in good condition that shows minor wear. All engravings are present and very crisp. Marked 145.022-68 inside.

Crystal: Like new OEM Omega hesalite crystal in perfect condition. Crystal has the embossed Omega symbol in the center.

Movement: Cal. 861 movement functioning well and keeping great time. All functions work as they should and the chronograph resets to zero. Movement serial number is 2732XXXX. Service history is unknown, but there does appear to be a service mark dated 2017 on the inside of the caseback as shown in the photos.

Bracelet/Strap: Like new vintage style leather strap.

Accessories: None, sold as watch only.





























Price is $7500 shipped insured FedEx overnight CONUS via PayPal or wire (3% discount for wire). US sale preferred, international sales will pay the cost of shipping. Face to face in the Boston area also welcome. I have many references available. Please feel free to ask any questions. Thanks for looking!