Watchlords

Generally, I can make these decisions all by myself. I just put on my Big Boy Pants and think: What would The Lalo do?
But this time I genuinely stumped.
I've wanted a Speedmaster Moonwatch for about 50 years, but always talked myself out of it. Dial too busy, can't read it, there's something else I want more. Blah blah. But now, as I face my mortality, I'm finally ready especially since my foray into Rolex makes the Speedy look like the Deal of the 21st Century - they're (relatively) downright cheap.
So here's the issue:
A new 2023 hesalite (no sapphire sandwich - I'm fooling myself I want to stay original) with the new, vastly improved movement and bracelet (so much for original) or something classic from the 20th Century with the original Moonwatch stuff.
Collectors go for the 20th Century series - earlier the better. And the prices aren't that different. $5700 (discounted/no tax) for a new $7K 2023 or about 6-7K for a used vintage example. Except for the Snoopies which are excessively priced, but so childish I love them. I'm not buying this for investment per se, though who doesn't like an appreciating asset.
Pluses: New is new. No scratches, dings warn parts and warranty. Old is hip and original.
What's the collective take on this?
Thanks.

Such an excellent question. Despite having crammed my brain with nuanced Rolex Submariner factoids, my brain spins every time I think I want a Speedmaster. I should probably buy a book, but feel there have been 80 new models in the last year.

Here is NWGuy's newest Speedmaster. I helped size bracelet late last year. I really don't know the model number or specifics, but it was the nicest one I've held. Felt substantial and well made. The bracelet, well, it was like butter .



So, I guess I'm of little help. They honestly all look the same to me. I'd probably buy the newest one that one of my regular three dealers had at a deal for me.

I do own a '71 Speedmaster. It is fantastic to wear, and simply gives me good vibes everytime it's on my wrist. The question is really only about vintage or new.
Now that being said, and though I have not seen nor touched a new Speedy: As long as outer appearance incl. the exact dimensions of the case are the same, I would go for a new one. I recommend this based on the joy and satisfaction which my "new" Nivada Chronomaster gives me. Less trouble.

Smellody: Wore tapered bracelet at AD yesterday. Is like butter.

I’d get the new one for the updated movement and bracelet.

There are plenty of 1861's out there if the historical significance is of importance to you.

They stayed true to the original - case and movement size, Hesalite crystal, and hand winding, however, the upgraded movement including better P/R would make the new one my choice, hands down.

921 or BNIB.

New. Fuck that vintage shit.

Definitely get the new watch.

I think you should buy an Omega Moonswatch. Why? Because it makes Teddy Baldassarie wet. And, think of all the highjinks you can have when explaining what bio-ceramic is!!

MOONSWATCH is bit too trendy for me, even though Teddy makes me hot. Not to mention the pricing is cray-cray.
I ordered a NEW hesalite Moonie this morning. After all, NONE of the watches for sale, vintage or modern, ever went into space.
Who am I kidding.
Thanks for the thoughts.

boscoe wrote: ↑

July 17th 2023, 8:24am

MOONSWATCH is bit too trendy for me, even though Teddy makes me hot. Not to mention the pricing is cray-cray.
I ordered a NEW hesalite Moonie this morning. After all, NONE of the watches for sale, vintage or modern, ever went into space.
Who am I kidding.
Thanks for the thoughts.

Congrats!!!

Good for You!
What actually is the delivery time?

Three-four days. New York to Oklahoma.
That MoonSwatch is nice looking!

conjurer wrote: ↑

July 16th 2023, 7:23pm

New. Fuck that vintage shit.

Noice!