ubiquitous

ff- Okay, to properly open the watch, you'll need a caseback wrench specifically for Rolex watches like this one: eBay auction 4944133917. To remove the movement, you'll need to remove the crown and stem; the movement should come free once the stem is released (there is no need to remove the pushers). However, I must caution that if this is your first time going inside a watch, to be very careful. You may want to practice on a lesser priced watch prior to working on this one. If you don't feel comfortable with working on the watch, you should contact one of the forum regulars who will work on your watch to perform the modifications. Best of luck... R

Checking with my dial guy for an update. As soon as I hear something you guys will know. Thanks, R

Great stuff as always! Excellent write up, desriptions and pics to illustrate! It's nice to know we have someone to help us with all our movement needs

My modified Royal Oak for Monday...

Indeed... It is a davidsen 009 My pics represent the watch as being a bit darker than it really is; I have since taken a cape cod to it, and it's lightened up a bit more. One thing I can say- Natural patina on the PVD's surface is gorgeous! I love it

I think I need a cofee as well...

Indeed, Rob- All great points, and as with anything, different methods and experiences all result in different perspectives. I certainly don't have the knowledge nor expertise in complete movement overhauls (that's why I send mine to you ); I absolutely do feel that we are all quite fortunate to have your knowledge here with us on the forums

J- If you plan on never going back to the solid back again, you can have your existing caseback converted to a display back. Some watchmakers are capable of doing this (but not all- It's best to check around). Alternatively, I do have my old caseback (display) from my PAM183 case that I used for my hommage project. I can send it to you as a test fit. If it threads up correctly, we can work somethng out...

If comparing to the pic of the dial posted in the original post, then yes. The MBW dial is certainly better.

Well, I cannot deny that Ziggy knows his stuff, and if he recommends release at the winding position, then that's sound advice in my opinion My personal experience has always been good when releasing the stem in the time setting position; so maybe both stem positions work okay for this?

A gen 1680 dial will fit, but there are 2 modifications needed: 1) The diameter of the genuiner dial needs to be trimmed down slightly, as it is just a bit too large to fit in the case. 2) Dial feet need to be removed completely. Oddly enough, the genuine Sea-Dweller dials are a drop in replacement for the 1665. They do not to be trimmed (only the 1680's). Hope this helps.

Wish I could help, but in 1 week my spare time is going to become extinct, and my life will be changed as I know it

One thing that I absolutely must stress- When releasing the stem, the crown needs to be in the time setting position. If it's not, you risk the clutch slipping, which can cause problems as well. I've had my share of ETA problems... But I've also had a fair amount of successes. Took me a little time and practice to get the hang of things in the begining, but once you get used to tinkering with these, it's not so bad. Keep your chin up...

I've had mine for 6 months as well; purchased in April, and wear it on occassion. It's collected some patina... But it's held up gracefully...

Indeed. Modding is what makes the hobby so much fun! The only watch (out of the 4 that I've been wearing) that isn't modded (or a frankenstein) is the Nautilus, but I am on the lookout for some parts for that one The AP has the new bracelet- But it required some effort on my part to fit it, so I consider it slightly modded to improve aesthetics...

lolololololololololololol I plead the 5th!

Indeed- You will need to reglue the datewheel. I myself use a glue that is rather viscous and allows for easy repositioning if required. I forget which kind off the top of my head... I found it while raiding my wife's scrapbooking supplies one day looking for stuff that might help me with my watch stuff

I have one exception... Which will probably find it's way to the chopping block soon. But that's only because it's just too ridiculously large for me to wear (and I need the funds for something else).

Just for fun... How many watches in your collection receive regular wrist time? And, how many don't? To take the question a step further... Do you keep the non-wearers? Or liquidate those not getting wrist time, despite your personal view on those watches? Personally... I have around 14 in my collection; 12 of which have been modified extensively, especially the Rolex models. Out of those, I wear perhaps 4 of them regularly, with only 2 of those actually being Rolex watches. The remainder, though not regular in the rotation are ones I would probably never sell (though I am giving my franken-DateJust to my father ). So, even though I don't wear all of my watches regularly, I love them all. It would be hard for me to part with any of them, as I have invested a lot of time and money into building them. Just wondering how many of you feel the same way about your pieces? Have a great weekend! R

24 hours seems very fair.

Looks good to me! Not bad for your first go on these!

D- Good stuff!!

Thanks for the kind words, gang! The watch is fantastic! And What can I say about Omni that hasn't already been said? He is a class act. A true one of a kind. I spent some time with my new Nautilus today... And I love it! Thanks for looking! R

I love that Cortebert engraved wheel... Can't wait to see this installed!

Does a Daytona spotting count if it's on your own wrist?