Case Comparison (etaswiss vs. TC)

[fidhle007]

I've did some looking and asking around.

Based on my findings I'd say if I were going to build a Super Franken, non-holed 16610 using a gen mvt and dial I'd opt for a Sean case with gen bezel assembly.

While a gen dial will fit the TC case, it seems the dial opening in the sean case is exact for the gen dial. (that makes for an easier install and a more secure dial)

It's safe to say that if you're going with a gen mvt. you'd go all gen everything with the exception of the mid case.

Expensive build (no doubt) but it would certainly be a one of a kind and it sounds like a very fun and gratifying project.

To me a build like that with everything gen but the case would essentially BE a gen.

But that's just what I would do.....IF I could afford to....which I can't.

A build like that would mean more to me than any gen I could buy.

It's all about the journey, my Brother......not the destination (though the destination "would" be very rewarding.

Please do keep us posted on your choice and progress.

Swap in an SA3135 and you've described my sean case build. You have the same opinion I do, Sean case for gen or gen-sized dial and movement, TC case for great-looking rep stuff.

[dan_189]

Ive just bought a TC and Sean case, ive got a gen 3135, gen hands, bezel, bezel insert, gen crystal. It has been a very interesting journey... If I had posted this on RWI all hell would have broken loose lol...

[ck5533]

dan please keep us posted how you go about all gen parts on Sean case.

[dan_189]

I will, fingers crossed its only good news ive come so far now lol

[its_urabus]

Dan, you need a gen crown and tube as well. Also, the TC v3 bracelet fits very very tightly on the Sean case, but it does fit

I assume you had the gen retaining ring as well, if not you may have to machine the Sean one as it is a red c*nt hair too tall. You will be surprised how good the Sean bezel is. And if you don't use it I know there are many members that will take it off your hands.

Lastly, check the model number on your Sean case. I told him it should read 16610T not just 16610 and he was going to fix it.

Good to see another Sean build. Mine is up at the spa getting some service, but will be glued to my wrist when she returns I am sure.

[correctime]

Some very good info in this thread.

So how is it the Sean case will take a gen 3135 OR 3035 mvt ??

[dan_189]

Hey guys thanks for the info

Current plan is to use the TC or Sean crown tube with a Gen 703 modern style crown, wasn't planning on a genuine crown tube.

I've got a genuine stainless steel bezel and I plan to sell the Sean one

Thanks Dan

[quaresma7]

Great review! Thanks for your job

[ck5533]

Dan, you need a gen crown and tube as well. Also, the TC v3 bracelet fits very very tightly on the Sean case, but it does fit

I assume you had the gen retaining ring as well, if not you may have to machine the Sean one as it is a red c*nt hair too tall. You will be surprised how good the Sean bezel is. And if you don't use it I know there are many members that will take it off your hands.

Lastly, check the model number on your Sean case. I told him it should read 16610T not just 16610 and he was going to fix it.

Good to see another Sean build. Mine is up at the spa getting some service, but will be glued to my wrist when she returns I am sure.

where can we get the retaining ring for gen 3135 movement for Sean case and where did you send your watch for assembly/spa services if you care to share?

[its_urabus]

No retaining ring needed for a 3135. I used a stilty spacer so that I could use an eta 2892-a2.

[ck5533]

No retaining ring needed for a 3135. I used a stilty spacer so that I could use an eta 2892-a2.

Thanks

[dan_189]

Received the TC sub today, it is a great watch Sean is on its way too...

[correctime]

Received the TC sub today, it is a great watch Sean is on its way too...

Congrats.

The TC is indeed very good.

Keep us posted on your Sean case

[dan_189]

Will do, im actually impressed with the TC especially when youve been staring at gigantic pictures of it you begin to really appreciate how very small all the parts are!!

[ck5533]

Lastly, check the model number on your Sean case. I told him it should read 16610T not just 16610 and he was going to fix it.

Dan, please update us (once arrives) whether the new Sean's case has the model number fixed......only 16610!

[correctime]

Indeed...the TC is a very good looking piece.

I'm very pleased as well....though I'm curious if a gen 3035 mvt will actually fit in the Sean case.

[its_urabus]

It might fit in some cases, but Sean's case tolerances are tight and I know that the 3135 fits perfectly. Let us know if you get one to fit..

3135

Diameter = 28.5mm

Casing diameter = 28.1mm

Height = 6mm

3035

Diameter = 28.5mm

Casing diameter = 28.1mm

Height = 6.15mm

Edited August 16, 2012 by its_urabus

[correctime]

Great info, Brother.

Thanks for sharing that

[dan_189]

.15!! I dont have a 3035 ive got a 3135. Is there any difference in the caseback size of the TC vs Sean?

[fidhle007]

They're almost identical, save for the markings.

[dan_189]

Cool thanks

Still on the hunt for a dial, if anyone has one let me know, im after the modern style with the newest spacing for oyster perpetual date

[dan_189]

Update on the serial number/engravings on the Sean. They are as follows:

Between the lugs:

ORIG. ROLEX DESIGN

16610

[its_urabus]

Yup same as mine...

[dan_189]

BTW whats the best way to remove the crystal and crystal retainer? Ive got the bezel off

[its_urabus]

for me the best way was to send it to the Canadian spa! if don't have the right tools to work on watches, I don't even try. as with most things, I don't think its hard to get apart, but you need a press to get everything back together...