...closed factory watches?

[tick123]

In my few weeks of browsing the RWG boards for as much info on reps as I can possibly find, I stumbled across one tidbit of info that kept popping up without an explanation as to what it was (as far as i have searched)

what the hell are closed factory watches and why are they so sought after??

[whitestripes]

For particular models, they are better than the ones available today (e.g. Bond SMP). They are called 'closed factory' because the factory that made them closed down.

[tick123]

of course! silly me thanks for clearing that up

[triplehd]

  tick123 said:

what the hell are closed factory watches and why are they so sought after??

They were reps ahead of their times.....

The consisted of several seamasters - Bond, Bond 40th Anniversary, 2254 & Electric blue models. There were different versions, such as "true" 2892 ETA movements" and then versions with the correct HE valve, better pearls & CGs, great dial details, etc. Sadly, the factory was shut-down/closed - dont know the exact reason, but pretty much for obvious reasons.

Theres talk about "updated" Seamasters coming out, but who really knows? As long as I have been in this hobby, we are promised the so-called Ultimate or true 1:1 reps only to be somewhat disappointed with the results.

However, I will concur that the Breitling models that just came out are really kick-ass super - reps. If they can use the same initiatives with Omeags, they will make many many many, and many more, members very very happy

[LordRasta]

Basically if you get a shot at say a closed factory Electric Blue, and it means you not eating for a few days.....well you'll have a kick ass watch to look at while your stomach grumbles.

[triplehd]

  LordRasta said:

Basically if you get a shot at say a closed factory Electric Blue, and it means you not eating for a few days.....well you'll have a kick ass watch to look at while your stomach grumbles.

Even though I was able to get an Electric Blue Closed Factory, I really really like the 2254 version better. Would ya beleive I parted ways with not 1, but 2 closed factory watches ? WTF was I thinking ?!?!? But to my defense, I was a noob on this board when I sold them. I didnt know better But now I do

[ubiquitous]

I'd love to get my hands on a closed factory 2254.50.00...

[tick123]

one thing I dont get...why is it so hard for the factories to make these reps even better? I mean they already have the technology...why not really buckle down and make a near perfect 1:1 rep? theyd sell a crapload of watches...but maybe its because the demand for super reps is not as big as we think? maybe this forum is just a very small percentage of the market for reps, and the majority of the consumers have no clue/dont give a crap about the details that we at RWG stress over?

[Watchmeister]

I think that the lack of susequent versions of this particular watch is more a function of factory or dealer concerns over demand and pricing. Factories have made subsequent wonderful Omega reps including the PO's. They were the new it watch and with a gen price in the $3,000 price range they could demand better prices. How much can you charge for a rep of a watch that is readily available for well under $2,000. Many of the older Omega Seamasters sell closer to $1,000.