Is the Phong HEV pretty good?

[BradBMW]

Hello all,

I was wondering if the helium escape valve on the 1665 case works well, or if it is prone to leaks? If I get a Phong (or other) case if I should replace with a gen?

Thanks,

Brad

[freddy333]

As with all non-gen parts/watches, if you plan to use/wear a watch near moisture, I would have it professionally water/pressure tested (at least) yearly. Regardless of how well the valve on someone else's watch sealed, that has no bearing on how well the valve on YOUR watch seals.

[dbane883]

Mine looks pretty good:

However if installed incorrectly, even a gen HEV will fail.

[automatico]

I have a few 'Abay/Paul' 5514 cases with the hev made like genuine and they all will hold to 80 or 90 psi (about 6 atm).

Old timers will remember Abay/Paul.

 

I wore one of the watches quite a bit a few years ago and made a valve with a slightly oversize shaft from 316 rod and pressed it into the case without a gasket or keeper and it sealed Ok too. I made the end that shows a little bit thicker to make up for not having an O ring.

 

How to remove the valve to change it back like it was...

Drill the head off and press the shaft through the case or carefully knock it out from the inside.

[BradBMW]

Thanks, gents.