Building a Custom Vintage-Inspired Dive Watch: Step-by-Step Process & Tips

In this engaging video, I demonstrate the entire process of building a custom vintage-inspired dive watch. I start by showcasing the components used in this build, including the TokeiLab case inspired by the 62MAS vintage Seiko diver. Follow along as I share valuable tips and tricks to tackle challenges in assembling the watch, such as installing the chapter ring, crystal, bezel, dial, and hands.
Throughout the build, I highlight the importance of quality components and share my personal experiences with various suppliers, including my high recommendation for TokeiLab. Discover how I modify the Seiko dial to fit the movement perfectly, and learn how to deal with bezel inserts and double-sided tape for secure adhesion.
In the end, I showcase the final result - a stunning custom watch with a black dial, rectangular hour markers, and Tudor-style snowflake hands. Paired with an olive green NATO strap, this versatile timepiece is not only a testament to my skill but also an inspiration for those looking to embark on their own watch modding journey. Don't miss this insightful step-by-step guide for watch enthusiasts and aspiring modders alike!
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0:00 Intro & Case
0:35 Installing Chapter Ring
1:33 Installing Crystal
3:09 Installing Bezel
4:01 Dial to the Movement
8:40 Installing Hands
9:56 Installing Crown & Stem
11:25 Installing Bezel Insert
12:18 FIN
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Parts:
Case - tokeilab.com/c...
Bezel - www.namokimods...
Bezel Insert - tokeilab.com/c...
Crystal - www.namokimods...
Crown - watchandstyle....
Case Back - watchandstyle....
Dial - tokeilab.com/c...
Hands - tokeilab.com/c...
Movement - watchandstyle....
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My equipment:
- Main Camera: Panasonic GH5 amzn.to/2WUSb29
- Main Lens: Panasonic 12-35mm f2.8 amzn.to/2WUSfPr
- Lavalier: Røde Smartlav+ amzn.to/2WXGk3b
- Shotgun: Røde VideoMic Pro (1st Gen)
- Main Tripod: Rollei Traveller Carbon amzn.to/2Z5PNs2
- Small Lights: Neewer LED Panel amzn.to/2ArxkvH
- Big Light: Neewer SL60W amzn.to/2WxQIju
- Light Diffuser: Neewer Hexagonal Softbox amzn.to/2Lx7oRu
I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Affiliate program, affiliate advertising programs are designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

[@cedricvanoverstraten3326]

Tokeilab has many quality control issues. Also you can easily remove the grey plastic part from the movement, so you can drill holes without any dust.

[@normanwink]

Unfortunately the hole needs to go through metal, too. Otherwise a good idea :)

[@ewingfox6459]

@@normanwink I know you explained in your video that this was more of a test piece, but why didn't you disassemble the movement before drilling? I'm new to your channel, so perhaps you've explained this in a previous video. Also, when you need to transfer marks from one thing to another - try a tiny bit of grease, soot, or dry-erase marker on the feet, it'll transfer a mark to the plastic. for metal, a quick dot of dykum or sharpie on the pate will allow you to scratch a mark with the foot for exact marks.

[@keanuvillanueva8128]

Im just curious. Did you install a glass gasket before pressing the glass?

[@jfour4]

Hi Norman, great work as always! Could I order a unique watch from you? 😊

[@normanwink]

I am honored but at the moment I don't do commissions :)