Edit: fixed thread title.
The latest completed mod:
I had an SNK809 case sitting around for ages. To me, it was always missing a certain "something" so I set out to remedy what I found lacking.
I've always felt that the 18mm lugs were anemic. The first thing to do was to open them up to 20mm.
It was a LOT of work. Though it turned out reasonably well, I don't think I'd do it again.
I also ended up custom fitting each end link to one side of the case. They're not quite mirror images of one another and I wanted the finished product look to be tight.
The stock crown tube was removed, the case drilled, and a 6mm, screw-down, diver's crown and tube was installed - after opening up a notch on the side of the case to accommodate the larger crown.
The case was originally a bead blasted, dark, military finish. It was completely disassembled and brush finished, top and bottom. Ditto for the bezel and crown.
For the crystal, a thick, Yobokies-supplied, AR coated sapphire tops off the build, and one of his bug numbers dials sits beneath, accompanied by a set of his VX hands.
Because I wanted the mod to be special, the 7s26 was replaced with an NE15 (same as the 6r15, but produced for non-Seiko brands).
I planned to use a see-through case back to show off the nicely finished movement, but it turns out that it will require additional work for proper fitment. For now, an SKX diver's caseback fits the bill.
It took ~20 hrs, the movement hacks, and the fit and finish is ~ TZ 93-95. I may or may not work a bit more on the fit and finish at some point.
I already own a Sinn 556, and at about 20-25% of the cost of a Sinn 656, I've got a similar, and still somewhat unique piece. All in all, I'm quite happy with the build.
Hope you like.
