Vintage 1974 recommendations

[Goose 104]

I am considering getting a birth year watch (I know it is not always a good idea and I am not in a hurry). I have seem some interesting pieces and have considered everything from the 34mm Air King with mercury dial through to DJs, Day Dates, GMTs and Subs. Getting box/papers at this age seems near impossible but the papers at would be part of the appeal unless there is good provenance elsewhere. I feel a little nervous with vintage because of the traps/issues so perhaps I should go for a lower risk/lower value piece without the papers?

Can anyone recommend any references to target for this year or should I be sensible and look for the best example from a different period (e.g., I really like the 16710 from 2001 with the Serifs on the bezel, SELs and lug holes)?

Interested to know if there are well accepted good references from this period - such as the 1680?

Many thanks.

[Blakerhodes]

I’ve got a 1974 red sub that I probably wear more than any of my modern pieces. I’d look for one with nice patina and hopefully no marks or chips on the dial.

[Goose 104]

Thanks - that is good to know. I would love a red Sub if I can find a good example.

[joli160]

If the birth year matters that much I would at least want a full set with dated papers.
Even so this will not give you certainty about the manufacturing year though. Rolex watches were sitting at the AD’s for a very long time those days. Some models years.
The internet charts are just an indication

[Tools]

Get the model that you like, not a bunch of Forum dogs.

Be aware that 1974 is in the range of some of the most sought after examples.

[Goose 104]

Originally Posted by Tools

Get the model that you like, not a bunch of Forum dogs.

Be aware that 1974 is in the range of some of the most sought after examples.

Thank you - appreciate the advice.

[Goose 104]

Originally Posted by joli160

If the birth year matters that much I would at least want a full set with dated papers.
Even so this will not give you certainty about the manufacturing year though. Rolex watches were sitting at the AD’s for a very long time those days. Some models years.
The internet charts are just an indication

Thank you - I guess the purchase date is more important than certainty over manufacture date?

[inadeje]

I added a birth year to my collection too. On the early Rolex, apart from the serial number timeframe there’s usually year/month stamped on the case back. A 5513 from that era should be easy to obtain.

[scombs263]

I ended up getting a 74 Omega Speedmaster recently and haven’t taken it off. Since it’s vintage and has wear marks, I’m not as concerned or paranoid as I am wearing my sought after Rolex pieces......Go for it.....

[Podmornica]

Never understood why a birth year watch means anything .. You will pay a lot for a used watch with someone else memories all over it ..

Now, if you find a unused piece sold exactly on the day of your birth with original papers - that would be cool ..

[robinmgb]

I'd recommend a Day Date 1803, I've owned most stainless steel models including the Hulk, Batman and SD43 but this feels so much more special, all gold is true luxury!

[Goose 104]

Originally Posted by scombs263

I ended up getting a 74 Omega Speedmaster recently and haven’t taken it off. Since it’s vintage and has wear marks, I’m not as concerned or paranoid as I am wearing my sought after Rolex pieces......Go for it.....

Thank you - funnily enough I saw a 74 moonwatch on Chrono24 yesterday - nice patina too but I don't know enough about the Speedy to know what to look for. It's a great option though since as you say I wouldn't have to worry too much about it as it will already have wear and it isn't a big investment piece.

[Goose 104]

Originally Posted by robinmgb

I'd recommend a Day Date 1803, I've owned most stainless steel models including the Hulk, Batman and SD43 but this feels so much more special, all gold is true luxury!

Good suggestion too - I do absolutely love the Day Date and have the Tudor two tone version (76213). I will keep an eye out!