I have been intrigued by this FrankenGS-GMT, and even more surprised (and sad) that the auction closed at the amount it went for. There has been discussion about this watch before:
http://www.network54.com/Forum/78440/message/1245424476/Need+help....have+you+ever+seen+a+GS++GMT+67%27s
And now that it has ended
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&item=350214803606
This is much more than what I have seen a genuine gold-capped 6246-9001 go for, just a few weeks prior. Given the reasonable amount/quality of photos shown, would it be possible that the both the seller and the buyer do not know what they are trading?
What concerns me also is that these Franken-GSs are early signs of what's to come. Im comparing this phenomenon with vintage Omega Constellation, in particular Pie Pans, of which I would say at least half offered on eBay are non-genuine in some way. In the last few years, there has been an increased awareness in the value of vintage GS/KS/Hi-Beat, and this is reflected in the rocketing prices internationally.
Detecting current or relatively current replica watches is not that difficult, as plenty of references and photos are available online. There are also many experts, like many we find on this forum, who have helped us to navigate the minefield. However, it becomes very difficult when dealing with rarer specimen, as I believe there are more variations to Seiko than there has ever been with Omega (even taking into account the strange things that came out of the Omega factory in the late 70s turmoil). Like the Connies, it is easy to tell fabricated components, as we see in this Franken-GS, but harder when model-incorrect parts are sourced from cheaper models from the same period. All the more reason why we need to compile a knowledge base right now, before many more of these fakes are produced, sold off, re-sold by honest unknowing owners, and genuine original become even scarcer.
The scary thing is that most references we have come to rely on for vintage Seiko does not actually come from Seiko, but from our own collective experience (forum, reviews, etc.). Meaning that, a decade from now, a watch that has never actually existed/produced can suddenly exist if it is innocently and unknowing documented and referenced enough times by otherwise-reliable sources.
Any further views anyone may have would be much appreciated.
Thank you.
