A common problem when converting to the 737. On every course, several pilots (often most) will inadvertently go past the off position once or twice - just a tad is enough to cause an expletive of frustration by the pilot concerned.
Initial training emphasises holding around the flap up speed plus a little until PNF has had time to ensure flaps up, lights out, and the handle back to off before PF accelerates to the initial clean climb speed.
The only problem is, as indicated by others above, if the speed is above the retraction limit when the gear handle is moved beyond off. This will require the aircraft to be slowed while the problem is rectified.
After a few sessions everyone seems to get the hang of it and the clean up and acceleration is done in a steady smooth progression.
On line operations, the problem occurs rarely, but is always good for the occasional humbling experience .....
[ 08 July 2001: Message edited by: john_tullamarine ]