intercepts

Feedback from owners who’ve used this resource. Note: The model 2254 initially discussed in this forum thread is mechanically identical behind its dial to the 2531.80 James Bond Seamaster associated with Pierce Brosnan’s tenure as Agent 007. http://forums.watchuseek.com/f20/who-should-service-my-2254-other-than-omega-520988.html

Potential buyer posted this question on an Omega watch forum while considering purchase. Several good, and even specific replies (with the usual dose of not-helpful “it depends” filler-remarks). http://forums.watchuseek.com/f20/seamaster-worth-will-last-me-lifetime-beyond-520881.html

“Anything above 45mm is really saying: ‘Look at me — I’m so uninteresting that I have to strap a train clock to my wrist to get attention.’” For the record, Daniel Craig wore a 45.5mm Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean in Casino Royale, but switched to its 42mm brother for Quantum of Solace. http://ca.askmen.com/fashion/mens-watches_500/591_big-watches-watch-snob.html

Omega owners weigh in with personal observations. http://forums.watchuseek.com/f20/how-accurate-your-watch-520598.html

Discussion involves a little more than just the Rolex Submariner Date à la Timothy Dalton in Licence to Kill. Pro’s and con’s. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&th=1612112&rid=0#msg_5562494

Writer of question two here asks how much he should spend on a dive watch. Ask Men “Watch Snob” says he is “a firm believer in not spending money on a watch between $1,000 and $3,500; there just isn’t anything in that range really worthwhile.” http://ca.askmen.com/fashion/mens-watches_500/561_watch-snob-does-your-watch-look-fake.html

Watchuseek forum participants’ reactions to Omega president Stephen Urquhart’s BaselWorld 2011 statement that wristwatches are no longer for telling time. http://forums.watchuseek.com/f20/omega-president-says-he-doesnt-wear-watch-tell-time-business-week-article-520819.html

Sort of a neat overview and following discussion from a guy who’s owned Rolex for a decade now, on the brand, decisions, and satisfaction. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&th=1610562&rid=0#msg_5557132

Bloomberg, March 24— “’Time is everywhere,’ Stephen Urquhart said in an interview at Baselworld, the world’s largest watch fair. ‘I’m sure you have, on your body or in your briefcase, three or four different things that have perfect time on them. We’re not competing with that.’” http://www.businessweek.com/news/2011-03-23/omega-president-says-he-doesn-t-wear-a-watch-to-tell-the-time.html

There are so many obviously angry ignoramuses undoubtedly driven by envy that the answer to the second question on this Ask Men feature merits highlight here. http://ca.askmen.com/fashion/mens-watches_500/557_watch-snob-are-watches-just-a-status-symbol.html

This question came up on TimeZone from an prospect who wondered if buying a Rolex from a dealer who’d lost its authorized status would mean no warranty. Consensus: Still covered. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&th=1611502&rid=0#msg_5560532

TimeZone revisits US Supreme Court decision that restricts COSTCO sale of Omega watches as non-Authorized Dealer. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&th=1605177&rid=0#msg_5536745

In yet another cut-and-paste attempt to build traffic, this website credits Ian Fleming as the Dr No movie director and further morphs the tale of how “someone” took the Rolex off his own wrist and gave it to Sean Connery for wear as the first big-screen James Bond. http://www.bestoftime.com/blog/rolex-submariner/

Nice range of owner-contributed images, across a variety of Rolex Explorer variations. http://www.network54.com/Forum/207593/message/1298588273/I+do+feel+it%27s+high-time+for+an+Explorer-appreciation+thread…

UK seller listed this watch on eBay and it garnered 24 bids by closing date; but deal didn’t close because sellers (undisclosed) reserve had not been met. FYI, a similar Breitling Top Time sold this past February 16 for $1,373.60, which may be why this seller decided to hold out. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rt=nc&nma=true&item=330534843498&si=96s98ySIZ1UZdeIt%252BddEjseq2CA%253D&viewitem=&sspagename=STRK%3AMEDWX%3AIT#ht_1162wt_1141

Another example of a fundamental — and far too common — weakness in internet forums as information resources. In this case, a guy asks for help in deciphering paperwork on recent repair to his Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean. Thread morphs from shared expertise to something more consistent with a junior high school creative writing assignment; followed by bobble-heads rushing in with praise for the latter work of fiction. http://forums.watchuseek.com/f20/here-swatch-warranty-service-report-planet-ocean-yes-its-back-509654.html

re Company owned facility in Secaucus, New Jersey. http://forums.watchuseek.com/f20/recent-omega-service-experience-511331.html

This is one of those finds that merits use of the (too often overused) word “rare.” Looks to be in pretty good shape; the key is having endlinks that are the right size for Gibratar Night Dive 980.031 worn by Timothy Dalton in The Living Daylights pre-title (those on this bracelet are too large). http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=120701762231&ssPageName=ADME:B:SS:US:1123#ht_2773wt_1141

Nice photos of Rolex Submariner and GMT pairing. http://www.network54.com/Forum/207593/message/1298684903/James+Bond+and+Pussy+Galore%B4s+children…

The 1016 being referenced here would have to be dated a bit after the Fleming-Bond watch. But the dialogue among collectors in whether or not what’s being offered is authentic (and, if not, to what degree) is indicative of the challenges collectors face in going after vintage Rolex watches. http://www.network54.com/Forum/207593/message/1298697680/buyer+beware..faux+1016+being+sold

TimeZone forum participants discuss the practicality of actually using watches labeled as “diver’s” for diving. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&th=1608464&rid=0#msg_5549316

Ran announcement on new James Bond Watches Price Guide. http://seikofans.blogspot.com/2011/03/james-bond-watches-price-guide-2011.html

TimeZone forum moderator James Dowling provides content of recent comments by Swatch Group head Nicholas Hayak, who sees positive things for this Omega Watch parent in 2011. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=tree&goto=5549683&rid=0

Rolex Forums participants discuss real-world wear of their Rolex watches on undersized straps, à la Sean Connery as James Bond in Goldfinger; with photos. http://rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=164179&highlight=james+bond

Owner notes proximity of serial number 59660 to that of the original Ian Fleming / literary James Bond watch, original dial and crystal, overall positive condition. http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=165804

Hodinkee asks this question, re The Rolex 6200 Submariner — seemingly oblivious to the most obvious answer (albeit via the 6538 reference). It’s James Bond’s choice, one should argue. http://www.hodinkee.com/blog/2011/3/2/a-submariner-ref-6200-whats-the-deal-with-these-big-crowns-a.html

Offered on eBay from Chemnitz, Germany, auction ending tomorrow. http://cgi.ebay.com/BREITLING-TOP-TIME-CHRONOGRAPH-TRAUMUHR-1720-EURO-/330536456455?pt=DE_Kleidung_Schmuck_Accessoires_Uhren_Armbanduhren&hash=item4cf5821107#ht_8922wt_1141

Now through April 10, the Detroit Institute of Arts is running this special exhibit, said to include an examination of fake Rolex watches.  http://www.dia.org/calendar/exhibition.aspx?id=2277&iid=

There’s no question this is not an Omega 2537.80 limited James Bond Seamaster. Yet it sold for $405.00 after 26 bids. Note Seller’s 100% Positive Feedback. Despite so many seemingly “good signs,” it’s still a fake. http://cgi.ebay.com/Omega-James-bond-007-watch-/130483644434?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item1e616e6812#ht_500wt_1156

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Under the headline “A View to a Kill (1985),” the Watches in Movies website has posted a few screen captures from various points throughout that film featuring this watch. http://watchesinmovies.info/movies/a-view-to-a-kill-1985/

Interesting choice of emphasis, content pull by GQ from recent Vintage Seekers special issue focused on James Bond. http://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/style/articles/2011-02/21/gq-style-news-james-bond-rolex-watch-submariner-1958-6538-aston-martin-db5-goldfinger

Auction ends today. http://cgi.ebay.com/BREITLING-TOP-TIME-CHRONOGRAPH-NICE-ORIGINAL-CONDITION-/330534843498?pt=UK_Jewelery_Watches_Watches_MensWatches_GL&hash=item4cf569746a#ht_1162wt_1141

As the Liquidmetal® Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean is a likely contender for the Bond 23 watch, this TimeZone forum discussion may end up being quite timely. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&th=1598410&rid=0#msg_5513417

Although definitely not the least expensive route to acquiring a proper bracelet for a Dalton-era Heuer 980 Night-Dive watch, the one on this sister version would be compatible. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330534341371&ssPageName=ADME:B:SS:US:1123#ht_500wt_1156

This watch was listed on eBay at a $750 starting price, auction ending last Friday without a sale. Seller now asking $500 for it on re-list. http://cgi.ebay.com/JAMES-BOND-SEIKO-G757-5020-SPORTS-100-/290538203850?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item43a56d2aca#ht_542wt_1141

Timezone forum participants discuss desirability of Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean “Quantum of Solace” limited edition watch. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&th=1601786&rid=0#msg_5525870

Thread started on Rolex Forums discusses watch article that’s part of “The James Bond Issue” edition of Vintage Seekers Magazine. http://rolexforums.com/showthread.php?p=2333580#post2333580

Curious how WatchTime hooks this otherwise unrelated diver’s watch history article to “James Bond.” http://www.watchtime.com/2011/02/birth-modern-dive-watch-maloubier/

It’s pricier than any recent sale we’ve seen, but if your in the market for a Seiko similar to the one worn by Roger Moore in The Spy Who Loved Me, this one is a nice looker. http://cgi.ebay.com/SEIKO-LC-0674-5009-ORIGINAL-JAMES-BOND-VINTAGE-WATCH-/180626229405?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item2a0e29889d#ht_6877wt_1141

Some nice photos on TimeZone — owners of vintage Rolex Submariner watches on straps sometimes similar to what’s seen in the Goldfinger pre-title cigarette lighter close-up. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&th=1599868&rid=0#msg_5518875

Though this one isn’t 100% consistent with the watch worn by Roger Moore in Octopussy, it’ll probably go for something over its $750 starting bid amount. http://cgi.ebay.com/JAMES-BOND-SEIKO-G757-5020-SPORTS-100-/290534329619?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item43a5320d13#ht_542wt_1141

Interesting discussion on CBn (already) focusing on James Bond watch selection for upcoming Eon Productions movie release still a year-and-a-half from now. (Reference to moderator “Jim” unfortunately highlights a severe shortcoming in CBn content management that leads many otherwise potentially valuable threads down a path that encourages disrespect, driving experts to lose interest in contributing.) http://debrief.commanderbond.net/topic/59436-what-omega-for-bond-23/page__pid__1145857#entry1145857

Initially it simply seems stunning that any seller would seriously list an Omega 2541.80 quartz Seamaster for $1,650.00 as its eBay “Buy It Now” price. But the listing gets even more bizarre as apparent wild guesses additionally refer to this watch by 2220.80 and 2221.80 reference numbers. http://cgi.ebay.com/OMEGA-SEAMASTER-PROFESSIONAL-BOND-QUARTZ-2541-80-41mm-/140495335942?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item20b62cb206#ht_9638wt_1030

The watch offered in this eBay auction is (assuming no post-purchase alterations) another good example of why we need more than case numbers to positively identify James Bond Seiko models. Correct reference is H357-5040, but the bezel is not screen-correct to For Your Eyes Only. http://cgi.ebay.com/VINTAGE-SEIKO-H357-5010-AO-DIGIT-ANAL-JAMES-BOND-F-/290529842157?pt=UK_Jewelery_Watches_Watches_MensWatches_GL&hash=item43a4ed93ed#ht_2590wt_1145

Or, well, you know: “Best Offer.” http://cgi.ebay.com/GENTS-BREITLING-TOP-TIME-CHRONOGRPH-WRISTWATCH-/130482535414?pt=UK_Jewelery_Watches_Watches_MensWatches_GL&hash=item1e615d7bf6#ht_2530wt_1145

This by Jeff Stein of “On the Dash” (Heuer) forum; overall commentary, with links to further discussion threads. Is it really this hard to hold frauds accountable?  http://www.chronocentric.com/forums/heuer/index.cgi?page=1;md=read;id=42238

These days, the Omega 2537.80 Seamaster (limited edition James Bond watch in commemoration of 40th anniversary of Eon Productions films) typically sell for between $1,300 and $1,900 — in case you’re interested. http://www.watchuwant.com/watches/omega-seamaster-james-bond-007-ref-253780-special-edition-40-year-anniversary-41mm-stainless

January 24, 2011— Here’s an official press release where Omega announces its support for the mission of ORBIS International through the release of a new wristwatch, enhanced by association with Daniel Craig as Omega “Ambassador.” http://www.omegawatches.com/press/press-release-detail/1573

This fellow has a Seiko model S60583, caliber 7549-7009 diver’s watch — but needs a strap for it. Internet watch forum provides some help with direction. http://forums.watchuseek.com/f21/seiko-golden-tune-7549-7009-strap-487985-post3591071.html

January 24, 2011— In an announcement tied to the development, release of its “Hour Vision Blue” wristwatch, Omega refers to actor Daniel Craig as one of its Brand Ambassadors. Not via his James Bond role, but, rather, stand-alone. http://www.omegawatches.com/press/press-release-detail/1573

Yes, it appears to be a Seiko caliber G757-5020, model WLK005 “Sports 100” pseudo-analog watch with dial similar to the James Bond version in Octopussy. Wrong bracelet. And, with this seller’s Buy It Now price of $1,400.00, it’s likely to remain unsold for quite a while (longer). http://cgi.ebay.com/Seiko-G757-5020-James-bond-RARE-Sports-100-/360329880786?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item53e555a4d2#ht_1754wt_988

Bit of an uptick recently on this CommanderBond.net thread recently — after having first been started back in May of 2008. http://debrief.commanderbond.net/topic/46819-watch-worn-in-nsna/page__pid__1140374#entry1140374

Watchuseek participant here is looking at what’s been represented to him as an Omega reference 2537.80 Seamaster James Bond 007 limited edition, posts question on forum asking for feedback on the story he’s been told about it. http://forums.watchuseek.com/f20/seamaster-james-bond-40th-edition-case-replaced-dial-face-487215.html

Along with this write-up on the now-mere-hours-old announcement that the next James Bond “Project X” novel will have the name Carte Blanche, a curious brand reference: “The book also features Fleming’s favourite car, a Bentley.” What does this portend for a specific watch identification as well? http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-12204547

Timothy Dalton wore two (TAG) Heuer 1000-series models as James Bond in The Living Daylights. This class of watch topped leading TAG Heuer site Calibre11.com’s 2010 list of most popular coverage reads. http://www.calibre11.com/2010-review/

1/6/2011 @Hodinkee A shame more aren’t marrying for wristwatches. RT @GuyKawasaki: More women marrying for money in 2011 than in 1940s http://is.gd/kcdPz

Dubai— Jeffery Deaver is said to be planning to share the title of his upcoming James Bond novel at the Emirates Festival of Literature on January 18, 2011. http://www.emirateslitfest.com/Deaver_on_sale

Located in Virginia and, ironically, offered through the Rolex Forums. http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=158235

Participant on Watchuseek Forum asks for options, gets ideas. http://forums.watchuseek.com/f2/bond-james-bond-487397.html

Enthusiastic thread (and some debate) on SCWF, re James Bond’s Seiko watches. http://www.thewatchsite.com/index.php/topic,12960.msg70092.html#msg70092

Discussion of Seiko James Bond watch in The Spy Who Loved Me on SWCF. http://www.thewatchsite.com/index.php/topic,13072.0.html

Reaction continues to the significant updates Rolex has made to its Explorer I, as discussed on the TimeZone forum. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&goto=5406006&rid=32108#msg_5406006

Interesting variety of positions and arguments played out regarding recent US Supreme Court ruling in favor of lower court decision to restrict Costco sale of Omega watches at prices that undercut official distributor network. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&goto=5412412&rid=32108#msg_5412412

In a recent 4:40 split-decision, the United States Supreme Court upheld a (lower) Appellate Court ruling in favor of Omega against Costco, which restricts the sale of watches in the US at prices undercutting its Authorized Dealer network. As reported on Supreme Court of the United States Blog. http://www.scotusblog.com/2010/12/copyright-defense-restricted/

Interesting top-of-the-waves look at key changes from a user’s perpective to the new Rolex 116610 Submariner Date, which replaced the 16610. Also some interesting historical notes regarding the 1680 was itself replaced by the 16610. http://luxurytyme.com/en/rolex-reviews/comparative-review-the-rolex-submariner-16610-vs-the-rolex-submariner-116610/

Titled “Which would Mr Bond choose” (next), on The Rolex Forum. http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=154784

Interesting — and somewhat popular — question on the Modern Rolex forum over at TimeZone: How appropriate is it to wear a Rolex GMT or Submariner with formal wear? When did it first start? Is James Bond the one who first set the wheels in motion for this? http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&goto=5387491&rid=32108#msg_5387491

Kudos to the folks on Digital Watch Forum for catching what is almost certainly an eBay scam: Seller says this listing is for the actual Pulsar LED screen-used watch worn by Roger Moore in Live and Let Die. Did he actually watch the movie? How many ways is this obviously wrong? Discussed on http://www.dwf.nu/viewtopic.php?t=4263&sid=d0230beebcd5e21945c3ad360528a385 and see http://cgi.ebay.com/ACTUAL-14K-GOLD-PULSAR-LED-WATCH-WORN-BY-JAMES-BOND_W0QQitemZ220703715874QQihZ012QQcategoryZ31387QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem#ht_1349wt_1141 for the listing itself.

Once again, Timothy Dalton reminds us why he was not only a great James Bond, but is also a great, professional actor: Entertainment Weekly interview, online. http://popwatch.ew.com/2010/11/01/timothy-dalton-chuck-the-tourist-bond/

Came across this special report from last April. Very good overall perspective on collecting watches, the overall market historically, and what is a good investment  — versus what is not.  http://www.businessweek.com/lifestyle/content/apr2010/bw2010045_024977.htm?chan=autos_special+report+–+luxury+watches+2010_special+report%3A+luxury+watches+2010

While innocent enough for casual chatter, this series of casual watch forum posts regarding diver watch references is a good example of how bad information spreads so quickly on the Internet — despite being so easily disprovable (if, in the case of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, the actual passage was simply read). http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=tree&th=1551836&mid=5334453&rid=0&rev=&reveal=

Obviously from the Seiko perspective, a fascinating look back at a period that forever re-defined wristwatch technology and put Seiko watches on James Bond’s wrist. http://www.seikowatches.com/story/quartz1969/index.html#/pg_intro

It’s a fundamental question that comes up among those seeking to add older James Bond Rolex watches to their collection. Here’s a discussion on one of the watch forums, including named sources and feedback from those who’ve used them. http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=150866

In 2009, the Swiss watch industry lost 4,200 jobs. Source: WatchTime, October 2010.

Interesting references to James Bond, George Lazenby, and the Eon Productions film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service in the June 8, 2008, Antiquorum Auctioneers sale Lot #122 (which is for a Rolex 6238 pre-Daytona chronograph). Matter-of-factly states that Lazenby also wore a Rolex 5513 Submariner as Agent 007.

Buying on the Internet, again, is buying on the Internet — anywhere on the Internet: Scams aren’t limited to the world’s most popular auction site. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=tree&goto=5327718&rid=0

Interesting perspective on mechanical watches (one of James Bond’s most important choices) vis-à-vis Swiss exports. According to the October 2010 issue of WatchTime, 71% of the value received from all wristwatch exports comes from those with mechanical movements. At the same time, these represent only 17% of their actual output in units.

That is to say, throughout it’s 126-year history. Reported in WatchTime magazine, October 2010 issue.

Interesting to see how quickly a news item on James Bond watches can stir passions on a watch forum. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&th=1552472&rid=0#msg_5336879

Very nice image of vintage Rolex Submariner with 1:18-scale Aston Martin DB5 model here. Overall thread started on Rolex Forums, re Sale of movie-used James Bond auto. http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=149503&highlight=james+bond

Yet another thread started after a visit to “Bond Watches, James Bond Watches” at the National Watch & Clock Museum. http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=149173&highlight=james+bond

Nice looking Seiko H558-5000 James Bond diver’s watch (A View to a Kill) available on eBay. http://cgi.ebay.com/RARE-SEIKO-150M-DIVER-ARNOLD-H558-5000-MENS-/250718311447?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item3a5ff9d417#ht_11835wt_1141

Interesting thread here on watch-winders for automatic timekeepers. http://www.watchtalkforums.info/forums/general-discussion-forum/44065.htm

For further information, inquire info@collectingwatches.com via eMail. http://ff.im/r9Id9

In 2009, U.S. consumers bought $3.1 billion worth of watches. As reported in the October 2010 issue of WatchTime.

Going ever so slightly beyond the Hodinkee and James Bond Watches Blog coverage of a possible sale for the screen-used Rolex 6238 from On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, Megaking.com has a story titled, “James Bond’s 007 watch goes under the hammer.” http://www.megaking.com/?p=6414

Installment four of the trilogy (?) reportedly won’t even feature its title character. And to think: Just a few short years ago, something approaching obsession called for James Bond to be “updated,” insisted it must follow this unproven (and, apparently, short-lived) direction. http://justjared.buzznet.com/2010/10/13/the-bourne-legacy-wont-feature-matt-damon-or-jason-bourne/

Per Calibre11.com, a 1982 Heuer dive watch Brochure, added to OnTheDash; features nice images, detail on the 980.031 Night Dive model worn by James Bond and Felix Leiter in The Living Daylights. http://www.chronocentric.com/forums/heuer/index.cgi?page=1;md=read;id=37643

This forum post asks, “What kind of Rolex Fan are you: Edmund Hillary, Pussy Galore or James Bond?” Photo shows a meters-first Submariner approximately within the Roger Moore era, a GMT-Master, and an Explorer within spittin’ distance of Ian Fleming’s literary 007 watch. http://rolex.watchprosite.com/show-forumpost/fi-732/pi-4131886/ti-656826/s-0/

Interesting perspective, coming shortly after the last time James Bond wore a TAG Heuer (in The Living Daylights, 1987): “So why did TAG Heuer watches in the 1990s all look the same?” http://www.calibre11.com/tag-heuer-six-features/

Another fine article by Robert-Jan on Fratellowatches.com, a compare and contrast between these two very similar vintage Rolex models. http://www.fratellowatches.com/archives/2010/10/07/rolex-submariner-5512-vs-5513-which-one-should-you-get/

CGI in modern movies portends an end for physical props available after for collecting. Not surprisingly, includes references to James Bond films for perspective. http://www.lfpress.com/comment/columnists/dan_brown/2010/09/23/15450151.html

In 2009, the United States exported 5.2 million watches, according to the October 2010 issue of WatchTime.

Very insightful, and unique, piece. Includes extensive commentary from Meehna’s interview with Dolly Chong (wife of respected watch collector and enthusiast Bernard Chong, and expert in her own right). http://www.meehnagoldsmith.com/blog/investing-watches-part-1-2

Most people call it the “Arnie,” but James Bond fans know it as the watch worn by James Bond in A View to a Kill. Here’s one available on eBay. http://cgi.ebay.com/Seiko-H558-5000-Divers-watch-Arnie-Arnold-ana-digi-/130434471770?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item1e5e80175a

Without substantiation — and suggesting he has the credentials to make such a broad allegation, um, why? — this eBay seller claims, “Please be aware most vintage Rolex affiliated products on Ebay are FAKE….” That alone is reason enough not to buy from this seller (irrespective of your own view and experience on the auction site). http://cgi.ebay.com/Seiko-1982-Dealers-service-watch-catalogue-Vintage-Rare-/110592117533?pt=UK_Jewelery_Watches_Watches_MensWatches_GL&hash=item19bfcdcb1d

Fellow with a case number 517,xxx Rolex Explorer 1016 asked for help in identifying correct dial for his watch. Dell Deaton provided answer, reference image. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&th=1527338&rid=0#msg_5254563

It looks like Luxist decided that the seller’s photos of a watch being advertised as the screen-worn Rolex 6238 weren’t enough. It added a still from On Her Majesty’s Secret Service: In it, actor George Lazenby is clearly seen wearing a Rolex Submariner — not the pre-Daytona chronograph being offered for sale. http://www.luxist.com/2010/10/05/rare-james-bond-rolex-chronograph-for-sale/

According to the October 2010 issue of WatchTime magazine, Dallas-based Fossil Inc reported $805,800,000 in sales for the first six months of this year. That’s up 26% from the same period last year.

If you haven’t seen one of these discussions lately — “why does James Bond now wear Omega and not Rolex?” and “who’s the best James Bond actor anyway?” — here’s another helping for your plate. http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=145034

HBR Stat: Facebook Is the Main Web Source for Product Opinions. View the full HBR Stat online: http://web.hbr.org/email/archive/dailystat.php?date=100710

“James Spotting,” which is the official blog for JamesList.com, picks up story of Miami seller who claims to have for sale the original Rolex 6238 worn by George Lazenby in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. http://blog.jameslist.com/2010/rare-james-bond-rolex-on-offer-in-miami/

Hodinkee article: “The First New Rolex Explorer (Ref 214270) in the US: Who Wants The 39mm Explorer Bad Enough?” Latest generation of the original James Bond watch, Ian Fleming’s 1016. http://www.hodinkee.com/blog/2010/9/20/the-first-new-rolex-explorer-ref-214270-in-the-us-who-wants.html

Although the copy on this TimeZone Sales Corner offering sorts it out, don’t like to see the James Bond reference in any headline that’s not for a James Bond watch. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=tree&goto=5297999&rid=0

Interesting question that came up on a watch forum. Not just for answers, but that it’s come up in the first place — during this production lull due to the MGM situation. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&th=1533274&rid=0#msg_5273049

Interesting discussion here on the notion of breaking in new automatic watches. http://www.watchtalkforums.info/forums/general-discussion-forum/44065.htm

The October 2010 issue of WatchTime magazine says that Swiss watch exports grew 19.7% during the six-month period ended in June, as compared to the same period in 2009. Yet this “failed to bring Swiss watch exports anywhere near their level in the boom year of 2008 [where, for] the first six months of that year, they stood at SF 8.29 billion, nearly 14 percent above this year’s figures.

Very nice reference for images of some Heuer / TAG Heuer watches sighted in The Living Daylights. http://www.chronocentric.com/forums/heuer/index.cgi?page=1;md=read;id=37995

Time wasn’t that long ago that a Seiko model S60583 titanium 600-meter diver’s watch, case number 7549-7009, such as this would have easily brought $529.00 on eBay. Alas, this one did not. http://cgi.ebay.com/SEIKO-7549-7009-Titanium-Professional-600m-Diver-/190446317677?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item2c577c306d

This is the smaller version, and the seller is correct: These don’t come up very often. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180568366309&ssPageName=ADME:B:SS:US:1123

James Dowling discusses history, technical perspective on Rolex dial options: Glossy versus matt. http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=tree&th=1529779&mid=5262001&rid=0&rev=&reveal=

Most commonly known as an “Arnie,” James Bond aficianados remember it as a James Bond watch in A View to a Kill. A little over two days remain on this eBay auction. http://cgi.ebay.com/Seiko-Arnold-H558-5000-Duo-Display-150m-Divers-Watch-/380272671656?pt=AU_Watches&hash=item588a047ba8

ZG Watches Blog, which bills itself as “The Latest News From The World Of Wristwatches” [sic], has picked up the Hodinkee story, re Matthew Blain sale of “original” George Lazenby James Bond Rolex 6238 pre-Daytona chronograph. http://www.zgwatches.co.uk/watch_forum/index.php?/blog/3/entry-26-genuine-james-bond-rolex-for-sale/

Nice example of a Rolex reference 5513 Submariner with bracelet apparently consistent with that worn by James Bond character in Live and Let Die. http://cgi.ebay.com/RARE-ROLEX-OYSTER-PERPETUAL-SUBMARINER-MENS-WATCH-5513-/370324645249?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item563911a581

Came across this “exclusive” by following my friends at Hodinkee on Twitter: Rolex 6238 pre-Daytona chronograph is apparently up for sale again. http://www.hodinkee.com/blog/2010/9/27/exclusive-james-bonds-rolex-pre-daytona-for-sale-a-real-bond.html?lastPage=true&postSubmitted=true

“Ads we love: The Rolex Submariner” refers to that famous one featuring this mid-1960s watch peeking out from under a French cuff. To many, it suggests more familiarity between Rolex and James Bond than generally acknowledged. http://theprodigalguide.com/2010/09/23/ads-we-love-the-rolex-submariner/

Couple’a days left on this eBay auction; watch looks good, but listing says that although it lights, it doesn’t set right. http://cgi.ebay.com/VINTAGE-PULSAR-LED-WRISTWATCH-ORIGINAL-BAND-/400155327346?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item5d2b1dbb72

Same version as worn by 007 in For Your Eyes Only; available on eBay — pretty good shape, price is okay. http://cgi.ebay.com/SEIKO-7549-7009-Titanium-Professional-600m-Diver-/190446317677?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item2c577c306d

This Omega 2907.50.91 “Casino Royale” Limited Seamaster Planet Ocean has been on eBay for almost a year now. At current U.S. exchange rates, seller is actually asking more for it now than when the listing was first sighted. http://cgi.ebay.com/OMEGA-Casino-Royale-BOND-007-Ltd-Edition-Planet-Ocean-/300469185200?pt=UK_Jewelery_Watches_Watches_MensWatches_GL&hash=item45f55beab0

This eBay listing for a Seiko G757 à la James Bond and Octopussy has been up for a while. Looks like none of the 17 offers was close enough to satisfy the seller, who’s asking $800 to Buy It Now.  http://cgi.ebay.com/Seiko-G757-5020-james-bond-watch-octopussy-NICE-/360284706176?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item53e2a45580

What about the Rolex that George Lazenby is said to have bought for his James Bond audition? Again, no details. The Daily and Sunday Express today in the UK mere rehashes the same article we’ve read everywhere else, so many times before. http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/200442/George-Lazenby-the-Bond-that-time-forgot

Guy comes in asking for a meaningful perspect on watch valuation; you respond with a flippant anecdote about having bought yours for 10 bucks. “Help” like this only lowers the quality of participation value on Internet discussion forums. http://bit.ly/aiO9DX

Justin Valentine reports back to the Rolex Forums on great time he had at James Bond Enthusiasts Weekend. http://bit.ly/9cPp4T 

Add to the list of resources for looking into: Strikes and Spares. Supposedly offers replacement LED modules for Hamilton Pulsar James Bond watch. http://bit.ly/cqzXnQ

Dial appears next generation after that of Ian Fleming, but same 1560 movement in this II 62 example. http://bit.ly/dc8EoX

One of the better articles on this subject: 5 useful tips. http://bit.ly/9Ur7Eq