A Definitive Guide to Modding a Seiko 5

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Modding a Seiko 5 can be a great way to personalize your watch and make it unique. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when modding your watch to ensure that the process goes smoothly. This brief guide will cover the basics of modding a Seiko 5, including what tools you’ll need and how to mod your watch safely. Let’s get started.

1. Clean the Watch

Before you begin, you will need to gather a few tools and materials. These include: clean, lint-free cloth, watch case opener, watch back case press, watch hand remover, watch movement holder, and watch crystal lifter. You will also need to ensure your hands are clean and free of oils or dirt. It is important to keep everything clean, as even the smallest pieces of dust can cause problems. You may also want to allow the watch’s power reserve to run out before beginning and set the hands to noon. This will help to prevent any damage to the watch.

2. Remove the Case Back

First, secure the watch in a case holder to remove the back of the watch. Then, using a case back remover tool, turn the case back and remove it. It is important to size the case back remover correctly, as a slip could damage the case.

3. Remove the Crown, Stem and Movement 

To remove the movement from the watch case, first depress the tab below the crown to the “0” position. With the tab depressed, pull the crown/stem straight out of the watch with your fingers. Then, using tweezers, carefully remove the entire movement from the case.

4. Replace the Crystal

Use good quality crystal pressers and make sure to apply uniform pressure. This will help remove the old crystal and easily press the new one in. Choose a domed mineral crystal for replacement, as it looks great and reflects light well. Before adding the new crystal, use a small rubber squeegee to remove dust.

5. Remove the Hands

To remove the hands of a watch, you will need two small tools that look like eating utensils. Gently pry the hands off with these tools, careful not to scratch or damage the dial. Cover the dial with a piece of plastic before beginning to pry to protect it.

6. Remove and Replace the Dial with a New One

To remove the old dial, use your fingers to apply even pressure around the dial until it pops out. To install the new dial, press it into the space where the old dial was until it clicks into place.

7. Apply the New Hands

You will need a press tool to change the hands on a watch. First, you will need to apply the new hour hand, followed by the minute hand. Both hands must be set to noon so they will advance evenly. After that, you must check that the hands advance properly for 24 hours. If they do, you can press on the seconds hand using the press tool.

8. Remove the Stem and Reinsert the Movement into the Case

To complete the mod, the stem must be lined up so it can be inserted correctly, and then the case back must be replaced.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to mod a Seiko 5, you should keep a few things in mind. First, you’ll need to find a watch that meets your needs and preferences regarding style and function. Once you’ve found the perfect watch, you’ll need to gather the necessary tools and materials. With the right tools and patience, you can easily mod your Seiko 5 to perfection!

Crystaltimes USA is the leading source of Seiko mods in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. We offer the largest selection of Seiko mod parts, including Seiko Sapphire Crystals, cases, bezels, crowns, dials, chapter rings, and movements stocked and shipped from the United States! For all your Seiko mod needs, we’ve got you covered! Shop online now!