What are you working on now?

[Fizzzz]

EDOX pocket watch into wristwatch conversion.

One more vintage movement resurrected by DJ57, I like this

I can see you’re using sandpaper to reduce dial diameter,
I don’t like this method since I often had scratches with the abrasive dust on the gloves.

I found this process more convenient and safe:
I’m using a Dremel, fixed horizontally with one of these thin brown/black cutting disk
I hold the dial horizontally with 3 fingers, and gently turn it against the flat surface.
I proceed by 60° passes, overlapping: from 12 to 2, then from 1 to 3 … so as the dial stay round.
This way, I never touch the dial surface, so no risk of scratch.

I’m using the same mount to shorten stems, it’s terribly fast and efficient.

[dj57]

Yes, you are right. Dremel would be the better solution. Maybe I have to buy one.

So far I was able to downsize the dials without any scratches or so…

… but yes there is a certain risk.
The whole process for ~1mm reduction takes more or less 20-25 minutes and a cappuccino.

[Fizzzz]

Yes, you are right. Dremel would be the better solution. Maybe I have to buy one.

So far I was able to downsize the dials without any scratches or so…

… but yes there is a certain risk.
The whole process for ~1mm reduction takes more or less 20-25 minutes and a cappuccino.

Don't you have a Dremel?
I had my first mini drill when I was 11 I remember it was powered by 4pcs 4.5v batteries
Nowadays, you can have a Dremel copy for 15 USD on Aliexpress,
I don't show you a link, I'm sure you know the way
these can also be useful for quick polishing repair.
Hope it helps.

[dj57]

[dj57]

EDOX pocket watch into wristwatch conversion.

What I realized over the years, many of the watch companies producing pocket watches did the same as we do when we collect watch parts for our marriage, homage, etc watches.

We need 5 pieces:
- watch case
- movement
- dial
- hands and
- strap incl buckle.
Sometimes maybe a stem extender, a movement ring. That’s it.

As you can see below, I guess they „ordered“ (in the pre in-house era) all their parts nearly from the same 2-3 manufactures and with the same styles.
Movement: ETA 6496/8
Hands: e.g. Breguet, Cathedral, Arrow, Dauphine, …
Dial: e.g. Arabic, Roman,… indicators
Case: many are exactly the same

Below some pocket watch examples


This is called: modular system
Put everything together and advertising oneselfs. That’s it!

And this is called „high-level horology“, „artwork“, „masterpieces made by highly skilled watchmakers“

[Fizzzz]

@dj57
Good reflection,
Years ago, I may have bought 150-200 of these Unitas pocket watches.
I share your observation: most of these parts are the same.
My guess is most of these pocket watches are relatively recent, from 70’s or 80’s, so old fashioned,
typically offered as a retirement present but rarely worn.
I think it was an entry level Swiss mechanical back then. So far from „high-level horology“

A few brands really used UT ebauches to make their own movements,
typically, Omega 960 (with this amazingly accurate Triovis regulator),
and Caravelle/Bulova using a different shockproof system.
For teh rest, I guess that 1 factory was producing for many brands.
See the Aerowatch photo, I’m convinced Tissot was selling exactly the same….

[matrixxu]

Always nice to see dj57 building stuff.
I love the Stowa 230 i bought from him, runs great and the 11mm tall case in 47mm diameter is perfect for when i want to be " fancy-oh-la-la "

I also collect calibers for future builds, and my Omega 960 are to me the most preciousssss, followed by Zenith 23.0.

Not that many occasions to wear them in the pocket watch format, but on some days, i just put a PAM-looking watch on the wrist and stick a pocket watch in the jeans pocket too.

[dj57]

Many thanks for the positive feedback.
Yes, the STOWA is a beautiful marriage watch and I regret the sale.
Any wrist shot pic?

By the way, your movements are amazing.

[matrixxu]

I have not seen a single case like the one the Stowa has, it would allow many thin , sleek builds using the Unitas 6431/6445, wich everybody ignores.

I love it, and will take care of it, regular service intervals, might even thermal blue the screws for an even nicer movement finish.

[Ellsthar]

My first strap for my first build is loading

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