Franken 16013

[Kerbus]

Well, after doing quite a bit of research reading threads and looking up part numbers, and a process that was tedious at times, I was able to have a Franken 16013 built. Collecting the components for the project was fairly straightforward. I’ve been noticing the prices of the gen components only seem to be going up and up , so I acted quickly and bought everything in about a week’s time. But when it came time to have it all come together, I ran into several snags but in the end all worked out well! I’m a terrible photographer, so please pardon the crummy photos.

Here’s my Franken Datejust “recipe”

1- 16013 case and gen bezel

2- Gen 6mm crown (24-600) and tube ( 24-6000-- height- 4.39 x 2.93 x 3.20)

3- Clarks 25-118 acrylic crystal ( note: 135 is the official part number for this case but per JMB my watch is proof the 25-118 works too—I’m really liking how acrylic crystals sit on cases compared to sapphires)

4- Clark Tudor ETA hands –had to be broached (hole sizes are 90/150/25 mm)

5- “custom/ refinished” champagne Datejust dial with Arabic numerals—feet cut off

and grounded down flush

6- Crown ( 29-0600), tube(29-06000), and caseback (29-302-86)gaskets

7- ETA 2836 movement

8- Cubic-Works datewheel overlay-- generously donated by alligoat

9- Movement clamps/screws

10- Last but certainly NOT least- custom spacer ring by JMB

I have a gold wrapped/filled TT Jubilee bracelet on the watch ( spring bars 82.929) with a gen clasp to finish everything off.

The gen parts and dial can be found on Ebay, and stuff like the movement ,gaskets, any other assorted parts you may need can be found at Esslingers, Star Time and JBorel.

The trickiest part of this build was an issue with getting an appropriate movement spacer ring. I tried some old plastic ones from reps;they didn’t work. I also initially bought a Raffles-times one, which apparently I was sent the wrong size, so that also didn’t work. I also tried a plastic ETA movement enlarger and having it shaved and modded, that also didn’t work, so I got in touch with JMB and he manufactured a movement spacer ring exactly for this case set and got the whole thing all finished up for me. Goes to show how important things must fit, just like a puzzle, if they are to come together! During the process of this build, three separate sources sent me wrong parts too, so that stalled things a little bit and just shows human error can come into play during any stage but nothing major and everything worked out fine.

Also, I bought the case with a mineral glass crystal installed.I didn’t give it a second thought until it was discovered it wasn’t allowing for the hands to clear. Big problems. That crystal was a wrong fit and it’s my understanding if a glass crystal is to be used on this case, it must be a special conversion one that has an arc on the inner side to allow for the hands to move. The original style acrylic definitely looks nicer on this watch.

So lots of twists and turns during the “birth” of this watch, but it’s all done, and I find it spectacular!

Here’s an all gen Datejust practically identical looking to mine, but it’s a 16233 and has lume dots by the dial hour indices and I’ve also noticed that exact dial goes for $499 on the bay! I prefer the clean look without them that mine has better.

http://www.tic-tock.com/wingates/watch-detail/39375

http://cgi.ebay.com/Champagne-Arabic-dial-rolex-gents-date-just-dial-/230649529212?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item35b3c8837c

This will be my only Franken.You can’t beat the gen parts but I’m fine with the reps of other Rolex models.

You have to decide if you might want to build one yourself. I outlined what can happen along the way but also that it can be a success. I hope this write up is helpful to you and points you in the right direction on your way to your build.

Most of all, I’d like to extend a gigantic thanks to three fine gentleman who were tremendous assets to me along the way: Alligoat, Katt, and JMB. Stilty, also—thanks for everything you posted about these projects over the years. I have your contact now. Without their expertise, advice, and willingness to work with me, the results of this project would not have materialized. Thanks so much, once again. I tip my hat to you!!

[alligoat]

Excellent job B! Now you're a certified member of the frankenjust club.

[Kerbus]

Now you're a certified member of the frankenjust club.

A club of high honor! Thanks Alligoat!

[jmb]

Looks good on ya! I had fun with my part of the project and hope you have at least as much fun wearing it!

[Kerbus]

I sure do JMB! It's definitely a pride of my collection, I really don't view it any differently than my gens of other brands.

[freddy333]

Ditto what Alli said.