UmpaHimself

Interesting. Do you have any examples of how it turns out?

Unfortunately I have become pretty discouraged with the 1675. I caused some damage to the one I had and I am not sure if it's worth it putting further money/time into it. Especially since the watchmaker I typically used doesn't seem to want to take on any new GMT movement work. So I'm switching focus to the new MBW subs that arrived a few weeks ago now. Already got the 5512 to a place I am really happy with just by swapping the insert to the ghost insert I had on my cartel sub. If you didn't catch it in the wrist check thread, here it is: The only insert I have found that may work is this WSO brown insert. What's nice is that it comes with an acrylic pearl (unfortunately it's not the most accurate). However, I would definitely need to fade it further to make it a believable tropical insert and I don't know how that would turn out. Not sure if I want to spend $70 to find out it won't.

I saw a picture which I now can not find of a 1680 with a black dial but a slightly tropical brown insert and would love to get something similar for my build. I was reading another thread in which the comments stated that getting this effect from bleach depends on the primary color used for the black on the insert. Blue = a more grey look where red = a more chocolate look. I was wondering if there are other, more consistent ways of achieving the tropical color on an insert regardless of the primary base color used. I was thinking about bleaching it, then soaking it in coffee or something similar but that would probably turn the silver numerals a lighter gold color too which I don't really want. Any and all ideas are welcome. Thanks!

5512 again for me. Doing some light aging to the case. Dial looks great. Where is it from?

Starting off with my new MBW 5512 and added a ghost insert + a B&S strap.

IMO I feel there is a big difference between micro brands and startups. Micro brands like Squale and MKII definitely make some high end stuff. On the other hand, most of the startups I have come across lead to delays and disappointing executions, especially when typically all they have to show upfront is digital renderings. I have sold all of mine except for one. The Tempest Carbon. It's super comfortable on the wrist. Case size is great, light and durable. Lume is amazingly bright and expertly applied. The finishing is done very well but nothing mind blowing, and it came with two straps. It could have come with a rubber and woven strap instead of two woven. It doesn't have the most high end movement (Miyota 9015), it wasn't cheap (around $900) and it took quite a while to be released. But the best thing is that it's not an homage of any kind which is super rare these days for a dive watch.

Thanks for the info. I was just reading on RWI that he has been delayed in getting back to people after the holidays.

Just wondering who is doing repairs for you guys here in the USA as our one TD on RWG.bz has told me that he is declining to work on any GMTs.

Thanks, I swapped the stock insert for this one from WSO: http://www.ebay.com/itm/160841349059?_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT It was already faded slightly from them but I bleached it even further and aged it a bit. Also, take a look at this thread I started here: All I can say is set your expectations for things to be far from perfect and you'll be fine

Thanks for all the help guys! The Rolex tool definitely did the trick, I'm glad I pulled the trigger on that. I fixed the indices that fell off. Yes you read that right. Apparently on this model from Toro, the indices are not painted on but are instead separate pieces probably not unlike the more modern style. But since I knew I didn't really want to put much money into this watch and had no idea on the specs, I didn't really want to buy a new dial so I was able to get them mounted back on the dial since they have a little pin that fits into the dial. Then I took the liberty to age the lume using felt tip Tombo markers which I think came out really great and a little espresso bubbles to add a bit of an oxidized look. However, after I reassembled everything the date/GMT won't change in the 1st position. The date does change at 12AM still but the GMT hand seems stuck. It tries to advance but then jumps back to it's original place. Not sure what I've done here. Take a look at the lume color though: Started like this:

Looks like it's in great shape!

Great description. Well I ordered one of the Rolex style removers from Amazon which should arrive today with the same day Prime delivery since I ordered it last night. I'll see how that goes.

Great combo! That's gen right? Black Bay on Bulang Diablo by Tyler David, on Flickr

I'm with you on that. Diver's should be plain, simple and indestructible. This is watering down the RO & ROO even more then it already is. IMO this is not a good direction for AP.

Depends on the price. Doesn't look bad, CGs could be shaped better.

This year is off to a great start

I have one of these and love it. Well made and holds 48mm watches with no issue. http://www.amazon.com/Caddy-Bay-Collection-Display-Exterior/dp/B013H2U5CA/ref=sr_1_46?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1453366559&sr=1-46&nodeID=7141123011

Is this the one? http://www.ebay.com/itm/Watch-tool-rolex-tudor-Oyster-waterproof-watch-Screw-back-case-opener-5537-/401056522624

That will fit any watch? Great advice Awesome Thanks very much guys. That's why forums are awesome!

I think all of us. The only real watch people I know are on forums. I have a few friends that bought one or two. My dad and grandfather are interested but don't really bother putting too much time into it besides the watches I get for them. So yeah, pretty much just me.

Can you post a link of which one you're talking about? I've been looking at a couple but again, I am not sure the ones for the Rolex caseback will fit my rep.

Seems fair to me

Hmm, very interesting suggestions. Never heard those before. I may give it a go if the sticky ball doesn't work