It’s this aluminum one from Amazon. For the faux aging I mix a couple tablespoons of bleach & drano in a small glass, submerge the insert and agitate it a little. I take it out every five or ten seconds and rough it up with a scotchbrite pad under running water. Some anodizing fades much quicker than others, so it’s far from an exact science. For this one I’d guess that it was in the solution for maybe 45 seconds to a minute total.
not certain no, as i said this one may be different. i know of 2 other of their 44 and 45mm nh35'd divers do indeed use 31.5mm dials for instance the 0420 titanium pro diver https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B004IU4MP2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_gW.zFbCN96YSV
Hopefully it turns out it doesn't as that's a sweet price for what you get
If you search up watch tools there are some good options. https://www.amazon.com/Vastar-Repair-Watch-Professional-Carrying/dp/B07H8D23L6/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=watch+tools&qid=1625425689&sr=8-3
Carson Optical Pro Series MagniVisor Deluxe Head-Worn LED Lighted Magnifier with 4 Different Lenses (1.5X, 2X, 2.5X, 3X) (CP-60), Black, 4-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007CDJKM2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_N23A3CRY46RQ3P9YNGDA
You can probably find a cheaper set if cost is an issue.
They are goofy looking but work amazingly. The wife got some playful digs in haha.
Ritche NATO Watch Strap with Heavy Buckle 18mm 20mm 22mm Premium Seat Belt Nylon Watch Bands for Men Women https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H96X78Z/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_0o5OCb9C16K1F
Just a cheap amazon nato, I ended up getting a few different colors and rotate regularly.
not certain no, as i said this one may be different. i know some of their other 44 and 45mm nh35'd divers do indeed use 31.5mm dials, for instance the 0420 titanium pro diver https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B004IU4MP2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_gW.zFbCN96YSV
which looks like a seiko dial would work but doesn't. Hopefully it turns out this one does use 28.5mm dials as that's a sweet price for what you get
Thanks again for all the positive comments. First build wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I'll share some insight.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082MC534D/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_e.UjFbW06SXR7.
Hope this helps, Alex.
You can do it man.
Then send me your watch info and ill help you get the right crystal.
Did some light digging, but didn’t find anything I’d say I was confident in. On this Amazon listing a commenter mentions they can confirm it’s 18mm. I’d take it in someplace before making a purchase tho
Sharing the parts list in case anyone is interested
Movement
generic NH34A
aliexpress dot us/item/3256804537147870.html
Can't vouch for the authenticity, but it's been running great for the last few days so far.
Dial
Generic sterile black dial with no date window
aliexpress dot us/item/3256803231844713.html
Musou Black acrylic paint
amazon dot com/gp/product/B09J94Y744
Hands
Hour and minute hands - Black on Silver Code: HL-A-8
Second hand - Grey on gloss Black Code: HL-A-7
aliexpress dot us/item/3256803751598526.htm
There is lume, but it's very weak. I don't mind it because nothing else is legible in the dark anyway. And lume intensity is inevitably different across the hr/min vs second vs GMT hands, as they come from 3 different sets.
GMT hand
White lume on gloss Black
aliexpress dot us/item/3256804471236125.html
Crown
Knurled Black Crown with Black S logo Code:WC-L-1
aliexpress dot us/item/3256803991369417.html
Bracelet
Black jubilee Code: WS-B-2
aliexpress dot us/item/3256804169317675.html
Case
Black on Black with 24 hr bezel insert Code BB3-N-5
aliexpress dot us/item/3256804511826263.html
This case came with everything I wanted except the red-S crown - case, solid caseback w gasket, crown, crystal with blue AR, knurled bezel + insert (120 clicks!), notched chapter ring. No lume on the bezel insert or the chapter ring though.
The seller also has a more SKX-ish case with the crown at 3.8 o'clock, but I preferred the 3 o'clock crown position.
Musou Black Paint
amazon dot com/gp/product/B09J94Y744
Oof. I did not know about the Modsmith dial. lol
I used a generic blank dial from Aliexpress - which I then sanded with 400 grit and primed with a self etching primer (not sure if priming was even needed though). The Musou Black acrylic paint I got from Amazon.
Dial
Sterile black dial with no date window
aliexpress dot us/item/3256803231844713.html
Musou Black acrylic paint
amazon dot com/gp/product/B09J94Y744
I first applied the paint using a foam brush but the black wasn't as deep as I'd hoped, so I finished with several coats using an airbrush, and the black was much deeper after that.
The finish is fragile af though, I had to retouch the paint 3 times after unintentional contact - once while installing the dial to the movement, twice while installing the hands. So while frustrating, I was kinda glad I had paint on hand to fix it. I wonder if the finish on the Modsmith dial is sturdier.
As I said, it’s a generic strap available everywhere. For example:
https://www.amazon.com/LaTool-Replacement-Compatible-Seamaster-Rolex/dp/B0BGGFVL61/
And the curved spring bars:
https://www.amazon.com/uxcell-Curved-Spring-Stainless-Flanged/dp/B09NR2FGWN/
I have the curved bending pliers but you can also bend between two spoons. Usually use 1mm longer bars to compensate for the curve.
Well, how good is your eyesight? I would absolutely not be able to set the hands without a lot of magnification (though I do wear reading glasses). I don't like loupes as I find them hard to keep in.
I got one of the magnifier headset type things as a gift and I find it good. I also have something like this which is also useful. They're also useful for checking for dust etc on the dial before you case up the watch, so a good investment IMO.
I can't remember I have had them for some time, but they are this style.
I use one very similar. I also bought from Amazon. I really find it helpful because I can add a second lens and can flip the magnifier down.
I can’t believe I completed my first mod without proper hand setting tools
Lighted Head Magnifying Glasses... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DW6FJ6S?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Nice! Good to know. And of course, no problem!
How much did you have to modify the ring? It basically just fit in place? I've never tried just using a whole ring like that.
Also, I buy those adhesive rings in "bulk". Better than paying like $5 a piece or whatever craziness some of the vendors charge for these. Plus I like to have stuff like this around. Nothing worse than something like this holding up a build. I like to keep extra adhesive rings and gaskets around all the time.
I can confirm these are the real deal 3m adhesive rings for less than $1 a piece. I just received an order of these exactly
https://www.amazon.com/Adhesive-Sticking-Insert-SKX007-7S26-0020/dp/B07D6TXNQ8
IMEX the Amazon loupes are very hit and miss - I suspect most of them achieve the claimed magnification, but some have a focal distance so short that there isn't room to fit a pair of tweezers between your face and the thing you're trying to look at.
You could gamble on another one of those, but it's still likely to be pot luck unless you spend more for e.g. the Bergeon ones.
There are binocular versions available (e.g. this), but I haven't tried them, and as with the cheaper loupes it may be a bit of gamble as to how good/useful the optics actually are.
One thing I've found useful is a "helping hands" stand (like this) that I actually bought for soldering small components - it has a magnifying lens on it that can be angled, moved around etc. No idea if this would provide sufficient magnification, but could be worth investigating. If you normally wear glasses then it does also mean you can keep those on, which might help.
I just looked but can not find the link, someone had previously posted a link on basic tools.
I found this on Amazon, https://www.amazon.com/AUTOXEL-18mm-50mm-Fitting-Remover-Replacement/dp/B088DB11SY
Really depends on what movement you are using too. Automatic, quartz, solar,,,,etc
Yeah, the focal point is really close. I mostly use the loupe for the second hand, as I can do most other things with just the magnifying glass. I am however looking to buy one of these soon: https://www.amazon.com.au/Andonstar-AD407-Microscope-Adjustable-Repairing/dp/B07VK52X9C
Good luck with your project. Making dials is a fun challenge :)
As for your questions:
1) Yes, that's generally correct. (N.B. Not applicable for your choice of case, but for general awareness: for some divers cases you need to buy the bezel and/or bezel insert and/or chapter ring and/or crystal separately from the case.)
2) Not if you're using an NH38 or other NH-series movement in a case designed for it. The movement holder effectively comes with the movement itself. You won't need one for the case you're looking at.
3) There are a billion (ok, slight exaggeration) places that do straps these days. What sort of budget do you want to spend on it?
4) You can get basic introductory kits on Amazon (example) for a fairly small amount of cash and they'll cover a lot of what you need and more besides. The quality of some of the tools isn't fantastic, but it's not so expensive that it feels like a waste of money if you find you want to do more and invest in some better tools. Depending on which kit you get, you might need to get the hand-setting tools separately. Also buy some Rodico. For some case backs you might need a different type of tool to the one included in these kits.
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B09VSPD851/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Out of stock, but similar exist. Watch out it's a 4.1 o'clock stem/crown.
You can do it by hand! I've done it several times...including an all-metal G-Shock that looks pretty great. I purchased these 3M polishing papers which are just super-fine sandpaper, and it only takes a few small pieces. It's the same material most manufacturers use, they just do it with huge machines and wet. Just make sure you use even strokes in the same direction...start with a higher grit and end with the finest one. You'll be amazed.
The strap I am using in these photos is the 22mm ALPINE Premium Quality Sporty Silicone Waterproof Watch Band with quick release in White. I modded the strap with an extra gold buckle I had laying around. The bands have a slight taper to them so the 22mm band requires a 20mm buckle.
I am extremely happy with this watch band and own it in almost every color. These bands have been through just about everything from hiking to white water rafting to full days in the pool and lakes, and still all look and feel like new.
Here is the Amazon link to the strap:
The strap I am using in these photos is the 22mm ALPINE Premium Quality Sporty Silicone Waterproof Watch Band with quick release in White. I modded the strap with an extra gold buckle I had laying around. The bands have a slight taper to them so the 22mm band requires a 20mm buckle.
I am extremely happy with this watch band and own it in almost every color. These bands have been through just about everything from hiking to white water rafting to full days in the pool and lakes, and still all look and feel like new.
Here is the Amazon link to the strap:
The strap I am using in these photos is the 22mm ALPINE Premium Quality Sporty Silicone Waterproof Watch Band with quick release in White.
I am extremely happy with this watch band and own it in almost every color. These bands have been through just about everything from hiking to white water rafting to full days in the pool and lakes, and still all look and feel like new.
Here is the Amazon link to the strap:
The strap I am using in these photos is the 22mm ALPINE Premium Quality Sporty Silicone Waterproof Watch Band with quick release in White.
I am extremely happy with this watch band and own it in almost every color. These bands have been through just about everything from hiking to white water rafting to full days in the pool and lakes, and still all look and feel like new.
Here is the Amazon link to the strap:
coffee sort of works, but leaves a shiny film all over the dial. Same goes for tea
baking the dial in a toaster oven puffs up the lumes and darkens them, but like 2 seconds too long and your dial starts bubbling
I've found wood stain repair markers to work the best, I typically use the oak or maple
Just pulled the trigger on the 9404 Pro Diver with an NH35A. At $40 (57% off) I got 3 of 'em, the max allowable. Pretty sure there's more.
Invicta Men's 9404 Pro Diver Collection Automatic Silver-Tone Watch
Dumb question though: It's date only, no day. Or is there a day wheel underneath? If not, I assume I just pick one up & drop it in for my current day/date divers.
Will know soon, just curious.
You ended up with the chapter ring of this one I have. They look the same !
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B09LQ24MW4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1
You'll probably need to size the stem, so some diamond files, calipers, and a pin vise come in handy but aren't strictly necessary (I use a 3 jaw chuck on an engraving extension for my Dremel in lieu of a pin vise because I already owned it)
Not all are, I had to do a lot of research. There's a certain invicta model that uses a Seiko NH35. This is the one I bought, it was great practice to take apart and put back together. Because I mangled it and learned exactly what not to do. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08XYCPTFY/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_0HT7KC2WKJEFGFJAQ7KF?psc=1
Could just buy a new one and use the new movement ofr something else? Amazon warehouse has one for $58 right now https://www.amazon.com/Invicta-8926OB-Stainless-Automatic-Bracelet/dp/B000JQFX1G/ref=sr\_1\_8?crid=28OKD9TI51HPE&keywords=invicta%2Bpro%2Bdiver%2Bautomatic&m=A2L77EE7U53NWQ&qid=1650582728&s=warehouse-deals&sprefix=invicta%2Bpro...
Honestly, make the jump into doing it yourself. Its super fun and you'll get the hang of it in no time. I replaced the bezel and insert in one of my divers with absolutely no experience at all and this (https://www.amazon.com/Watch-Repair-Tool-Kit-Professional/dp/B07J4MW3FY/ref=sr_1_17_sspa?c=ts&keywords=Watch%2BRepair%2BTools%2B%26%2BKits&qid=1649533366&s=apparel&sr=1-17-spons&ts_id=378531011&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVy...) amazon watch tool kit.
You might mess up, but you probably won't, and in the long run learning to do it yourself makes modding so much more fun and enjoyable.
You would still have to cut off all the dial feet from the NH35 dial.
360°/31=11.613° ... 30°/11.613°=2.583 ... 0.583 x 11.613° = 6.77°
The date wheel will be misaligned by, a VERY NOTICABLE, 6.77°.
When you see those ~$150 NH35 dive watches with a true 4 o'clock crown, they have custom screen-printed date wheels, or they get their dials made with the date window at 4 o'clock. I'm new to this game but, some of these experienced modders are totally okay with Sacrificing a few Heimdallrs and ADDIESDIVEs, for parts, on their $1500 custom build.
Sure. Here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B092LCK6SC/
It doesnt feel quite as premium as say a Strapcode, but it gets the job done and its comfortable.
Cheapest way to get a white wheel NH35 right now - $45, and you end up with some interesting spare parts you can use for other stuff: https://www.amazon.com/Invicta-8928OB-Stainless-Two-Tone-Automatic/dp/B000JQJS6M/
I got it on Amazon Benchmark Basics Quick Release Watch Band - Premium Waterproof Seatbelt Nylon Watch Straps for Men and Women - Compatible with Regular & Smart Watches - Choice of Color & Width - 18mm, 20mm or 22mm https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088JWWYWZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_JHXMKQ8WBHBND7HH18ZF?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Seiko 22mm Jubilee Watch Band - Stainless Steel- for Models Diver SKX007, SKX009, SKX171, SKX173, SKX175, SKX175 Cal.7S26 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000P6AUGI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_HKCWH2EKVF6JS2E4VQC5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I bought it from another redittor on r/secondhandmodparts but it looks like this one, except 20mm https://www.amazon.com/Wrist-Style-Perlon-Watch-Strap/dp/B011WSXR62/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?crid=O4FM4UAGFOTK&keywords=perlon+watch+strap+20mm&qid=1645627742&sprefix=perlon%2Caps%2C122&sr=8-6
No, not swapped out, I did it as an exercise in Gimp which is a open source "Photoshop" software package.
I wanted to see how the old dials looked in the new case.
Unfortunately I don't have the skillset to swap dials in real life.
They seem to have several different backs on different models. If you post a photo then we can potentially advise the specific tool required.
Failing that, as a semi-universal solution you might find that something like a Bergeon 8-ball works - it'll do most types of case, but only if the back isn't overly tight. Otherwise you'll need the proper tool.
There is another bodge that works but can be messy - superglue a decent size nut to the back, let it properly set, use a spanner to remove the case back, then soak the back in something like acetone (found in most nail polish removers, as a cheap/easy way to get hold of it) to remove the glue and nut.
I’ve gouged up a case or two in my day using the simple bezel pry tools. I’m thinking of maybe getting one of these.
Hi all, I'm in Australia and looking for a ox similar to this https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08DNSCKYR?maas=maas_adg_FC71E27B1F36EC6D3F3F3955B83C2552_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&ref=myi_title_dp
The only issue is postage for this piece, is more than the actual box!
Any help appreciated!!
HURRISE Watch Press Tool, Watch Press Back Case Closer Screw Type Watchmaker Watch Repair Kit Watch Back Case Cover for Fashionother Repairing Tool with 20 Fitting Dies https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07MFV37NS/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_YDWTC325YK95N9F8V6R8
I do use a lever press. I alternate between a $12 one and a Bergeon knockoff I got for $65 bucks on sale on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MBTG38D/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_TWYH5N12NFB0X355QZ5E). Neither presses entirely flat but if you rotate the case between each gentle press and don’t press hard until you are almost finished you end up fine. You need to know which side of the dye comes into contact with the crystal first. I also use 3D printed die inserts and 3D printed disks that I can put between the die and the crystal. Works for me. If I was starting from scratch I would get a twist-down press for sure
Not something that I think about as I personally don't swim or shower with my watches. I haven't seen other modders with water damage issues, but I'm sure there might have been issues like these in the past.
Your question piqued my curiosity, which prompted to submerge my case under water (just for 5 min.) to see if it was 'waterproof'.
Video here.
I don't have any equipment for water pressure testing, but I have seen some people here do actively test their builds. The case in the video is just a cheapo 40mm Sub Aliexpress case, but it seems to be fairly OK.
I guess if you are curious, you could bring your case to a watchsmith and ask them to test it for you.
This guy (K-R Watchmaket) has a MM300 in bronze, but first of all it’s an MM300 (not quite the SKX I’m lookin for) and it’s $654, which is a little steep for me. It’s definitely the closest I’ve found though.
I've used these 3mm 'glue dots' with success.
Glue Dots 174924 Clear Dot Roll, Micro .125" 325/Pkg https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L3Z8KCU/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_RDG1458TPAKAV8VWYZYJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/Alucy-Wristwatch-Pressers-Fitting-Watchmakers/dp/B07VPCSC84
I use the gray tip on the black pen for the hour hand, and usually the brass tip on the red pen for the minute and second.
if you want a fitted bracelet, the only source I know of is long island watch, and those would cost more than the case.
however there is a straight-end bracelet I can reccomend from amazon, I have two of them and they both look (and wear) great on their respective watches.
I used some cheap generic abrasive wheels meant for dremels. My "dremel" is just a cheap Chinese one, it helps if you have a Jeweller's vice.
I don't know of anybody who makes an aftermarket case with that shape, especially the turned lugs. You might try to find an Aqua Terra clone that uses an nh35 and swap out the dial, although a lot of the AT clones seem to use a 31.5 mm dial.
The simplest, easiest approach would be to buy this and put the Yobokies dial in it, although the case shape is not the same.
24mm 22mm 20mm 18mm Metal Watch Band Premium Solid Stainless Steel Watch Bracelet Straps for Men Women Blue/Black/Silver https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FS9Q8JS/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_CZ93383H1QS025PQTZ8H?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
You could reshape/sharpen a hand lever set till it fits. Use a single layer of Saran Wrap and work thru that. Or use this https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F7WLBPV/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_XEBJVKWJDCGJ259DCB2A?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 And Saran Wrap.
ZKG Watch Back Case Opener/Closer/Remover for Rolex Oyster Watch Repair Set Tool Waterproof for Watchmaker Screw Kit Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G88HCMQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_9YG73CCDE8JAGE24TABP
There’s the link to one on Amazon. I got mine a few days ago
I got both bracelets on Amazon. The black one is a Trumirr 22mm quick release .
The one drawback I've had with it, although not just with that specific bracelet but others with the double button butterfly clasp, sometimes if my hand bends a certain way, it can trigger the clasp to unlock.
Perhaps I have the bracelets sized incorrectly, I do not know, maybe it's a problem specific to me. Just wanted to give a heads-up.
As for the wire cutter, I got this one delivered yesterday (after my cheapo one broke).
This one cuts the stem easily without much force needed. I then use a metal file to smooth it out.
As for the crystal press, many people recommend one that screws down, rather than just presses down. Something like this , but I have no experience with those. I use a cheap press myself.
Cheapest one is a Watch Ball
It looks like this cadisen will work that comes with an nh35 movement. Gonna try it out and will report back.
CADISEN Men's Automatic Watches Stainless Steel Blue Dial Waterp... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097MT4B3R/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_api_glt_fabc_94RP4EQDKAAP5XRKNF6C?psc=1
Look like one of these:
I’ve got the same one. Not terrible for under $20.
Thank you! Here is the link for the bracelet:
MiLTAT 22mm Watch Band for Seiko SKX007 SKX009 SKX173 SKX175, Super-O Solid Screw-Links https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00C58S82W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_12ZYR9R1RPT5DPJYD2KK?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
i haven’t used the hand tools yet, parts are taking forever to get here
i just got the generic ones on amazon if you search for them
Appreciate it, man.
I found it here:
Insert Aluminium for Bezel from Seiko WorldTime for Seiko Bezel Old Model 6309/7002/7S26(SKX) Divers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01NBWF0AO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ZBGHYXZKV9FZ19CTF8TN?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I’m glad mate. My advice is to find a way to actually see what’s going on. Until you’ve done it a few times it’s hard to imagine One of these can be very helpful and is useful for many other things around the house.
Magnifying Glass lamp, Dylviw 2X Magnifier Light with Metal clamp, Table Base Holder USB Powered Classic Black Portable Clip Desktop Magnifying lamp, Great for Daily Reading, Hobbies, Workbench
Good luck. Let me know how it goes.
All the little containers go into these: Sterilite 19618606 Small Clip Clear Storage Box with Latched Lid - 11" L x 6-5/8"W x 2-3/4"H: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074V4CYTX/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_Tlo3Fb8KS5CEV?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
These resin I use
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VWV9K5X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_eomrdEJH49pH1
First try on molding with this ....think this will work some sanding to finish will be required.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018B4A6X2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_5rWgT3b6fXdD7
Any watch lume powder will work I have used many kinds with resin
.
I picked up this cheap one off amazon, seemed to worked well enough. Ohuhu Watch Press Set, Professional 13 Piece Watch Case Closer With 12 Dies, Watch Press Kit For Close Snap Off Watch Back Cover https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PVNPSV2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_5GlACbHXVXPGE
Noted. Not trying to argue here, just trying to get to the bottom of this and would be happy to write a negative review if it is a knock off.
Seiko sells on amazon and I found an SKX that does have a P model.
Seiko Divers Navy Dial Rubber Strap Men's Watch SKX009P9 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JNFGLRB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_cR.IDbK3KDSJ2
Watch was finally delivered today and from my understanding I can’t see any reason why it would appear counterfeit, yet again I’m not entirely sure.
I can recommend the Omega-style deployant from Ewatchparts. I bought a few recently for my leather straps and so far they're working great. It looks like it has a similar style of locking mechanism as the Strapcode, but the buttons depress smoothly for me.
Keep in mind that the deployant's fit and function is highly dependent on the strap. I have a couple straps where this particular deployant won't fully close and lock because the strap is too thick - the thick, padded strap bulges out and prevents the locking tabs from slipping underneath the adjoining bits of metal.
Ah, you will need some tools. Here's what I can recommend for this build specifically, which is usually like a bare minimum for building watches:
-Watch repair kit. Make sure it at least has tweezers, a case hack opener, a case holder, and a spring bar tool for eventually putting on a bracelet. Here's mine
-Hand setting tool. I'd recommend one that has a stand for stability. Here's mine
-Loupe to check that the hands are installed properly and to check for dust/smudges
-Rodico, a putty used for cleaning the internals of the watch
-Caliper
-Nippers/end cutters to cut the crown stem
-File to file down the crown stem
-Loctite blue to secure the crown to the crown stem
-Oftentimes need a crystal press, but I didn't need one here because the crystal came pre-installed
It seems like a lot, but you don't need anything fancy and you might already have some of it at home. I'd highly recommend just going on YouTube, search up "seiko mod tutorials", and research as much as you can before you build. The videos by u/LumeShot helped me a ton when I was trying to learn. Good luck!
I used this brand and you don't need a bottle this big I bought originally for crafting with the kids
Any decent uv light will do mine was like 8 bucks think Amazon as well in think
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VWV9K5X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-gmHFb4EFKEJQ
Hand setters https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PVPJ44Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_e1qzFbV0EGZQG
Levers for hands
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FBJD6W4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-3qzFb3JAM9FB
The press I bought is no longer available
I have used the leftover from these after removing the bezel insert section. Cut it into small pieces. Works as good or better.
DGSTRAP 3M Adhesive Tape Sticker for Seiko Watch Bezel Insert Rings SKX007 SKX009 SKX011 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087K25RCB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CAQrFb6CJ75Q2
Thanks you! i will if needed :D i bought my first Seiko from Amazon
https://www.amazon.it/gp/product/B07WJV73DM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_image_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (the Rose gold one)
and i bought the necessary from dlwwatches, diden't know about the /SecondhandModParts/ section! But next one i will look there.
i'm so excited about building my own watch, that probably i will build a second and a third one :D
I did a little looking around and went with these from amazon. This is all still very hypothetical, mind you, and I plan on making several test designs of varying detail and color to try out on various surfaces first.
Amazon there is a bunch of styles made for soldering and small electronics/phone repair.
It has a few magnetized comparts but I plan to cut the magnetic out of the back or not use those sections for metal.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MQ823BQ/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_istOEbDWEVFCH
Not at all, the shark mesh is actually amazing and comfortable since it was a cheap one I picked up from Amazon. Highly recommended!!
https://www.amazon.com/RECHERE-Stainless-Bracelet-Interlock-Safety/dp/B017351WLK
WD40 is for displacing water and breaking loose a rusty connection. It is not a replacement for a proper set of tools. Your case back is likely NOT rusted on. Therefore, do the following- invest the small amount of money it takes to get a Paylak TS-CH300 Metal Watch Repair Tool and a KMCT17001 Excellent Watch Repair Tool AL-Handle 3 Point Waterproof Screw Case Opener KMDECYY TM . When you have those put the watch firmly into the holder, adjust the wrench to the proper size, hold down firmly and turn the wrench to the left until it becomes loose. That simple!
I have a heavily modded SKX013 (I'll try to upload a pic when I have better signal) and the bezel insert swap is pretty easy to do. No real risk of ruining the whole watch as you don't have to open it up. The biggest risk will be in scratching the case when you take the bezel off. I bought a mini prybar for removing bezels from my SKX007 and SKX013 and it worked great.
Edit: added image of watch (sorry for weird rotation).