Some of you know I have a 1968 Omega Seamaster Chronometer in white gold on a white gold expansion bracelet. It's a pretty rare watch, because in those days only a few Seamasters were chronometers (unlike today, where they all are). It's a great watch, very comfortable and very accurate.
But, I like to wear watches on straps as well. So, I have been casually looking for one in steel which I would put on a strap as an alternative. Yesterday, I found one at the local Scott's antique show.
Put on once a month, Scott's fills two buildings, each the size of a big Sam's Club or other warehouse-type market with dealers from all over the Eastern US.
Dealer had this and probably misquoted the price. When we opened it and he saw it was a chronometer, he didn't look happy! Good shape, sized to fit me -- and cost less than 5% of what the gold one cost (bought at the height of the watch market).
By the way, these photos below are all iPhone photos -- cell phones have come a long way.
How do the two watches compare?
This was a fairly big watch for its era at 36.5mm. The crystal on the gold is the correct one; note the difference in viewing the minute track. I can spring for a new crystal. No, I didn't get the date wheel customized for me -- its German (Samstag=Saturday)