I remember it, and it looks great. You probably made the right call getting the work done but passing on the bracelet and going with a strap. I'd definitely wear that bad boy!
I scrapped out some gold to get it fixed so that way there was no out of pocket expense.. when i find enough gold to scrap again then ill get the bracelet that belongs on it. i do like it on the black strap though
I like the black strap too. A watch like yours deserves a good strap, but not necessarily the original. Check out ABP Paris for other strap options - everything from alligator to stingray, and even rubber straps for Rolex, which is cool for a diving watch.
If I ever made a find like this I think I'd die of happiness!