Seiko Modding 101 – 5 Tools You Need to Mod Watch Hands

Watch modding has become a popular hobby for enthusiasts since it breathes new life into old-time pieces, allowing the wearer to make upgrades to improve their functionality and style. Seiko models are often the go-to choice for watch tinkerers since their basic design leaves plenty of room for adjustments, plus the impressive aftermarket support for Seiko mod parts makes it a perennial favorite.

Changing the wrist straps, cases, crystals, and other parts can improve the look and feel of the watch, though you can modify the functionality further by changing the watch dial. Modifying the watch dial means the watch hands need attention, too, since it needs to match the dial’s new style.

Modding the watch hands, however, can be challenging for beginners compared to other parts like the wrist straps. Seeing as you’ll be working on sensitive parts, you’ll need the following tools to ensure your mods are done as smoothly as possible: 

Tools You Need to Mod Watch Hands Safely and Effectively 

1. Tweezers 

Handling the watch hands without tweezers is nearly impossible since they’re too small to configure, so working with tweezers is a must if you want to move the hands without any shaky blunders along the way. 

2. Hand Setter 

Every modder who wants to change the internal components needs a hand setter since it’s designed to lock the hands in place. They typically come in different sizes, one bigger to set the hour hand, while the others are for the minute and second hands. With that in mind, you may find yourself investing in differently sized hand setters once you start modding more watches in the future. 

3. Hand Remover 

Tweezers can help you handle the watch hands with greater ease, but removing them from the watch requires a hand remover. These are made with fiber tips that protect the hands once you pull them out, but its design also allows for easy and accurate removal since it removes the hour, minute, and second hands in a single pressing motion. 

4. Dial Protector 

When prying the hands off your watch, there is a high chance of damaging the dial inside. After all, your watch is made from delicate components, so handling the hands using your trust tweezers can leave a mess in its wake without a barrier to protect them from scratches. 

With that in mind, a dial protector should keep your watch’s dial and other inner parts safe throughout the modding process. 

5. Cleaning Putty 

Your bare fingers can leave unsightly marks on the watch dial, hands, and other intricate parts, leaving your watch in a mess once it’s all done. Cleaning the components after modding is a nightmare since the crevices are too small to handle with care; that’s why it’s better to prevent any dirt from staining your watch in the first place. 

A cleaning putty keeps your watch safe from smudges and stains, so it’s the last yet equally essential tool you need to get started on your modding hobby. 

The Bottom Line: Investing in the Right Tools for Modding Watches 

The watch hands are one of the trickiest parts to mod since they are intricate and vulnerable to breakage, so having the right tools to prepare for a smooth-sailing modding journey is essential. Beginners who are ready to change the critical details of your favorite watch can safely start with the tools above, all of which are must-haves in every modder’s kit! 

Why Upgrade Your Watch Collection with Crystaltimes USA?
If you’re looking for the best Seiko mod parts in the market and want to breathe new life into your favorite collection, check out some of the best quality crystal mod parts in our store! We also offer additional finger cots when you buy our products, so browse our extensive selection and see if you can find the best mod that suits your style.