changing a panerai dial to a base

[chris5264]

I was working on a project today, basically one of davidsen's new asian 6497 movements used in a panerai base with no seconds hand. At first I thought it was some problem with the dial feet but the pin for the seconds hand will not let the dial be placed properly. What do to shorten this pin?

[RWG Technical]

You can do two things, one cut the post off with a set of side cutters, but that will leave a small stub that will get in the way.

Or, you can grind the post off with a dremel and cut off wheel. This is the best way, as the cutters can damage the jewel due to the shock as the post is cut off, it's quite hard metal.

Dremel works fine, but before you do this, tape over the whole top of the movement, even over the post (just push it up through the tape). Once the movement is completely covered in tape (to keep contaminants out after you grind it) grind away and your all set. You should use a piece of rodico on the remaining post stub and the jewel it sits in to remove the remainder of the grinding stuff...otherwise it could cause problems if metal pieces get to where they shouldn't...

RG

[chris5264]

I can't believe how often it comes down to using the Dremel. That worked out great. No problems and no more pin for the seconds hand.