One of the best reps ever made as well as one of the most sought after reps were always the closed case Seamasters. The reps were built with the correct HE vavle, Crown Guards and bracelets I have ever seen. However, all good things must come to an end. The factory was shut-down and we were then forced to get reps with incorrect HE valves, crappy CGs and crappier bracelets. I was able to buy a couple where I then proceeded to sell them for other projects (I was a young noob back then - didnt know better ).
Then, about a year or two, a seller on Ioffer was selling SMPs with the correct HE valve. A number of members did receive the correct case, however many of us received inferior versions. So the search continued.
I was able to manage to get about 3-4 more closed cases where I then created some franken Seamasters - including my white & blue Seamasters (see Omega Section) and a couple of Electric Blue Seamasters. However, there were no more cases.
Until now.....
There is a dealer under the Apprentice Dealers named Watch International. When viewing her photos, I noticed a Seamaster (v2531) with the correct HE valve and better CGs. I sent her mail requesting pics. She did indeed confirm that the HE valve was past the 10 marker.
So I ordered an ETA Clone 2531 (even though I already have a closed case with the gen dial).
Here's a pic of the watch from her forum - SMP
The bracelet is not the same, in terms of quality & detail, as the bracelets from years past, but big deal. I rather have then correct HE valve and great looking CGs - you can always swap the bracelet for something else (i.e. rubber strap, leather strap, etc.)