Introduction: how to use mechanical watches with date

This is a brief introduction to the basics of a mechanical watch with date function, which might prove useful in your subsequent installation.

If you are already familiar with how a mechanical watch works, feel free to skip this video and proceed to the next one.

Content:

• crown position for setting date

• when to avoid setting date

• how to determine AM/PM

1a. Opening the package and wearing finger cots

Introduction to what’s inside the package, and how to wear finger cots to protect the movement.

Content:

• introduce package content

• how to wear finger cots, and why

1b. Preparing case parts

Your watch case comes pre-assembled in order to keep it clean. This part will show you the individual parts of a case.

Content:

• How to open case back

• How to place parts

1c. Precautions during movement installation

Mechanical movement is the soul of a watch. It takes great care to install it. In this part, we’ll show you what to be mindful of when you install the movement.

Content:

• Introduction of different parts of a movement

• Areas you should not touch

• Areas you can apply pressure on

1d. Removal and installation of stem and crown

Watch assembly and basic watch repair require you to install and remove the stem and crown. You will need to do this multiple times throughout this workshop.

Content:

• Function of crown

• How to remove and install crown

1e. Installing dial

Please choose below the type of dial you’re assembling:

In this part, we will install the dial. After assembling them, we will proceed to the next part, where we install the watch hands.

Content:

• Install dial onto the movement

The following pictures indicate the movement dial holes (green spot):

Optional: How to remove the dial

To remove the dial, simply use a screw driver, and insert it in between the dial and the movement or movement holder. Inserting the screw driver next to the dial feet will give you a better control. For Seiko NH movements, you can find slots on the movement holder for this purpose.

In this part, we will install the sapphire dial. After assembling them, we will proceed to the next part, where we install the watch hands.

Content:

• Install sapphire dial onto the movement

• Learn how to remove the dial safely

1f. Installing movement holder

In this part, we will install the movement holder onto the movement assembly.

Content:

• How to install the movement holder

[Optional] Bleaching bezel insert

Before installing your case, you can opt to give your bezel insert a faded look by carrying out a process called “bleaching”. Learn how to do it via the button below:

3a. Cleaning parts and movement assembly

Instruction on how to clean parts and movement assembly

Content:

• Using hand pump

• Using rodico

• Using peg wood

3b. Cleaning watch case

In this part, we will clean the watch case

Content:

• Avoid touching the inside of case

• Using rodico, peg wood, and suede for cleaning

3c. Installing chapter ring and watch case

In this part, we will install the movement assembly with hands into the case

Content:

• Installing assembly

• Aligning movement and stem

• Installing case back

3d. (optional) Installing custom rotor

If you have customised a rotor, replace the factory default rotor with your custom rotor.

Content:

• Finding the right screwdriver

• Removing the rotor

• Putting on the new rotor

For Seiko rotor:

If you need to reinstall any of the components, you can refer to this:

FINAL CHECK!

1. Check for proper watch functions by winding and setting time. When hands are being turned, check if they come into contact with other hands or parts.

2. Check for dust or dirt on crystal, hands, dial or other parts. If needed, you can remove the case to clean the inside.

3. Check if the case back is securely fastened. If not, water resistance capability of the watch might be compromised.

Almost there!

Good job! You are now one step away from your DIY watch!