LifeTrekker

Bummer. [emoji852] Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Basically, I soaked the bracelet in water under a vacuum for a few hours, and then under pressure for a few hours. I wanted to make sure the water made it in behind the spring pin. I then took it out of the water and froze it for about an hour. Next I heated the bracelet with a Blazer micro torch, and "Pop!" Out it came. So, water or steam? Personally, I think it was the pressure caused by the water rapidly turning to steam and expanding as it was heated. So, yes. Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Qapla'! (Success!) The heat technique did the trick, but not with oil. I tried oil first and that didn't work. I tried water next, and that did. The rapidly expanding steam popped the end of the spring bar right out, almost like it was shot out of a gun. Now it's all back together and ready to go back on the watch. After a through soaking in baby oil that is. Thanks for the help Brothers. I really appreciate it. Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

That's good to hear, because honestly, most places around the internet are not like that. But If you guys are okay discussing the normally "forbidden" topics here, I'm game. But as you say, let's keep it respectful and civil. Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

The bracelet was basically brand new and still in the plastic wrap a couple of weeks ago, so I don't think dirt is a big issue in this case. But it would definitely be a consideration with other bracelets I've worked on. Definitely nasty buggers some of them! Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Interesting, and thanks. I'll have to give that vinegar or alum trick a try if my first technique doesn't work. Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Okay, so where does one purchase Alum? You know, just in case my other technique doesn't work. Also, what is a good source for a replacement spring bar for this bracelet of the appropriate size? And on the other topics, personally, I try to keep the discussion of politics and religion out of my watch threads. Not that I don't have strong opinions on both, believe me, I do, and I actually love discussing them too, it's just that they are so devisive, I find it better to try and civilly discuss them on another platform. Just my 2 cents worth. Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

I think I'll try the 1680 build first, especially since my boss owns a gen, and I've told him that I plan to make one like it. But, the 6538 Big Crown just calls to me, like a Siren in the mist. I don't know how long I'll be able to resist. . On a related note, here's another watch that I picked up recently from a WIS friend in another forum. He originally picked it up from a seller here on RWG a little over a year ago. If anyone's interested, here's the link to the original sale listing: https://rwg.cc/applications/tapatalk/index.php?/topic/187409-Phong-5512-build In any case, I'm quite enjoying it. And it's my first, honest to goodness "Genuine Rolex Rep" too! [emoji6] Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

That looks great! Would you mind sharing the details on that one for the new guy? Case, dial, hands, crystal, bezel, movement, etc.? You know, all the good stuff! Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

It's all good. I always try to have a little fun every day, and try not to take life too seriously. Besides, I have an idea for making sure that cavity behind the broken spring pin is full of oil before I try heating it. This basic idea came from someone on another forum, but the idea is that the expanding oil will force the pin out with hydraulic pressure. I'll let you all know how it works, assuming it does anyway. Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Man! So many broken spring bar pins. I'll bet that chainsaw made quick work of getting them all loosened. [emoji6] Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

I would like to be all in for $1K or less on this first one, as this would be my first rep build. I don't plan on using any gen parts, or few gen parts, but I would like to use some of the best gen spec aftermarket parts available. I'd like to put a gen ETA movement in it, but I'm not opposed to using an Asian ETA clone if that would help bring me in under $1K. I know low budget builds like this are just a series of compromises. So, what do you all think? Is it even possible to build a convincing 1680 for a grand? Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

So, if one wanted to build a rep of the Rolex 1680, what cases are there available out there that are both A, relatively inexpensive, as well as B, reasonably accurate, or can be made reasonably accurate with a little case modding finesse? Or am I looking for a unicorn that doesn't exist? Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Sorry. Double post.

Yeah, my plan is to start with the "least destructive" options first, and then if that doesn't work, I'll pull out the sledge and the MIG. And maybe the chainsaw. [emoji6] Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Thanks for the advise guys. I'll give the cooling and heating trick a try and let you all know how it comes out, or, if it comes out. But not tonight. Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Is JKF the same as Cartel? If so, I found some over on the InTime web site. Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

I have a repair problem I'm hoping someone here can give me some assistance with. As you can see in the picture below, the spring bar on this Yuki Rolex 95153 bracelet has broken, but it left the end of a pin in one hole, which doesn't want to budge. Now this spring bar is toast and will be replaced, but if anyone has any suggestions on how to get the pin out of the hole, I would really appreciate it. Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

What's a good source for a complete Cartel watch then? I did a quick look over on PT's website but didn't see any of their subs listed as Cartel. Is there an alternate name that I should be looking for? Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Duplicate post

I've been doing a lot of lurking and reading here on the forum, but have not come across the source for where one would obtain Cartel cases. Could someone please enlighten me? Thanks in advance! Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Thanks! That's what I thought I was seeing. The size and "boldness" of the font looks closer to gen, just minus some of the serifs. But then again, it's 1/4 or so the cost of the gen, so is certainly a good option. Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

That looks great! And you are not making this any easier. The Dark Side sure is seductive. Especially when it comes with a little gilt. And BTW, what are the details on that beautiful 6538 build? Is that a Silix case too? Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Looks Great! But just curious, what do you think of the WSO date wheel? How close is it to the gen Rollie? Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Nice shot! I love the B&W. JF 16610? Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk