Seiko Modding: 5 Easy Steps for Replacing the Dial and Hands

Modding is a tradition for watch connoisseurs and collectors. It gives them the chance to change a timepiece’s looks and make it more pleasing based on their preference. It is also an opportunity to build the watch of your dreams on your terms. 

And no brand is more famed for its modifiability than Seiko. But if you’re new to redesigning watches, where do you begin?

Before you start, specialized tools like a hand press, a dial protector, a hand remover tool, and a movement holder should come in handy for this work. When you have all these tools, take these five easy steps:

1. Use the Stem to Stack Two Hands.

The first thing you’ll need to do is to remove the watch’s hands. Using the stem, try to set the watch to a time where both the long and short hand are on top of each other. In this way, it will be easier for them to be removed from the watch’s face. 

Once they are set, slide a dial protector beneath the hands. Ensure that the front of the watch does not get damaged, along with the indices and logo. The dial protector should be good enough to keep the face from getting scratched while removing the hands. Do not force the hands to eject from the watch. Instead, if their placement is perfect, they should simply pop right off.

2. Remove the Stem or Dial.

After removing the watch’s hands, the next step is to isolate is the dial or the stem used to set the time. Using a scalpel or a prying tool, try to open up the watch’s face until there is enough space to pull out the dial. 

Next, identify how to change the dial with the new one by identifying the watch’s movement. Replacement dials are designed to have a variety of movements, and all require various positions for installations. 

Check and determine which feet from the watch need to be removed for the new dial to fit perfectly. Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the foot by rocking it back and forth. The movement should weaken the bond and allow it to come off. Align the new dial feet and install the new dial.

3. Install the Hours and Minutes Hand.

Remember that watch hands are made out of fragile metal and may bend even at the lightest pressures. Go slow when working on this part to protect the hands you’re installing. Prepare the hand installation tools and begin the installation. 

Using an adhesive material or tool, pick up the hands and place the hour hand over the post and nudge it into 12 o’clock position. Using the hand press tool, press the hour hand down. If the installation is perfect, the hand will be parallel to the dial and not bent. Install the minute hand by doing the same steps over again.

4. Install the Seconds Hand.

The seconds hand fits last on the post like a hat. Installing it requires a careful and precise application since the top is very small. Go slow and use magnification and light to see well. Once everything is set, use the hand press tool again to press it down in place but with even less pressure. The second hand should start moving, an indication that it was properly installed.

5. Check for Errors.

After installing all the hands, try to turn the dial a few times and set the watch on time to test it out. Watch out for dents, scratches, or any damage caused during the installation. Make sure that the hands are not rubbing each other. If there is a rubbing feeling, remove the parts and reinstall them again. If there are none, it should be all good and ready to be reassembled.

Conclusion

Modding watches is a fun and easy way to give it a new look, rebuild its face, and style it how you prefer. It’s also not too difficult to do. Although it requires a lot of practice and hard work, it should work according to plan as long as you follow the steps diligently.

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