Watch Mod: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

If you’re anything like me, despite the popularity of smartwatches, you still appreciate a gorgeous timepiece on your wrist.

Watch modding may be just the hobby for you!

In this guide for beginners, we will cover the main topics you need to know about watch modding, including the tools you’ll need, the different types of mods you can do, and some tips and tricks to get you started.

What is Watch Mod?

Watch mod is the process of customizing a watch to your personal taste.

This can include changing the dial, hands, or even the movement.

Modding a watch can make it more unique and can also improve its performance.

Modding can also be a fun and satisfying hobby for those interested in watches.

Tools You’ll Need for watch mod

Before you start modding, there are a few essential tools you’ll need. These include:

Spring Bar Tool

A spring bar tool is used to remove and replace spring bars, which hold the watch strap or bracelet in place. It typically costs around $10 to $15.

Case Back Opener (Three Prong)

A case back opener with three prongs is used to open screw-down case backs. It usually costs between $5 and $20.

Bezel Remover

A bezel remover is used to remove the bezel from a watch. It typically costs around $10 to $20.

Movement Holder

A movement holder is used to hold the watch movement securely in place while performing repairs or modifications. It usually costs between $10 and $30.

Leather Pad

A leather pad is used to protect the case from scratches and damage during repairs or modifications. It typically costs around $5 to $10.

Dust Puffer/Blower

A dust puffer or blower is used to blow dust and debris off the watch movement and other parts. It usually costs between $5 and $10.

Watch Holder

A holder is used to hold the watch securely in place while performing repairs or modifications. It typically costs around $5 to $20.

Hand Removers

Hand removers are used to remove watch hands without damaging the movement or dial. They usually cost between $10 and $30.

Hand Press

A hand press is used to press watch hands securely onto the movement. It typically costs around $20 to $50.

Crystal Press

A crystal press is used to press the watch crystal securely onto the watch case. It usually costs between $20 and $50.

Tweezers (Needlenose & Brass)

Tweezers are used to handle small parts during watch repairs or modifications. Needlenose and brass tweezers are both commonly used. They typically cost between $5 and $20.

Watchmaker Screwdrivers

Watchmaker screwdrivers are used to remove and install screws in the watch movement and other parts. They usually come in sets and cost between $10 and $50.

Sharpening Stone / Whetstone

A sharpening stone or whetstone is used to sharpen the tips of watchmaker screwdrivers and other tools. It typically costs around $10 to $30.

Masking Tape

Masking tape is used to protect the case, dial, and other parts during repairs or modifications. It usually costs between $5 and $10.

Finger Cots

Finger cots are used to protect the fingers from scratches, cuts, and other injuries during watch repairs or modifications. They typically cost around $5 to $10.

Jeweler Gloves

Jeweler gloves are used to protect the hands from scratches, cuts, and other injuries during repairs or modifications. They usually cost between $5 and $20.

Microfiber Cloth

A microfiber cloth is used to clean and polish the case, crystal, and other parts.

Rodico

Rodico is a type of cleaning putty that is used for cleaning watch movements and parts. It is soft and pliable, and can be molded to fit into small crevices and tight spaces to remove dirt, dust, and debris. The average price for Rodico is around $10 to $15 per pack.

Dial Protector

A dial protector is a tool used to protect the dial and hands during the modding process. It is made of plastic or rubber and is designed to fit over the dial and hands to prevent them from getting scratched or damaged. The average price for a dial protector is around $5 to $10

Watch mod Tool kit

Did you think there are too many tools? Don’t worry, there are kits available with the basic tools you can start with. You can search for watchmaking kit on Amazon. There are kits starting at US$ 100. But pay attention to the quality and reviews to make a good purchase.

Types of Watch Mods

There are many different types of watch mods that you can do, depending on your skill level and the tools you have available. Here are some of the most popular types of mods:

Dial Mods

Dial mods involve changing the design of the watch face.

This can include changing the color, adding text or logos, or even creating a custom design from scratch.

Dial mods can be done by hand or with the help of a computer program.

Hand Mods

Hand mods involve changing the style or color of the watch hands. This can be a simple way to give your watch a unique look.

Bezel Mods

Bezel mods involve changing the design of the bezel, which is the ring around the outside of the watch face.

This can include changing the color, adding text or logos, or even creating a custom design from scratch.

Movement Mods

Movement mods involve changing the movement of the watch.

This can include upgrading to a higher-quality movement, changing the type of movement, or even adding complications such as a chronograph or moon phase.

Tips for Beginners

If you are new to watch modding, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Start with simple mods: If you are new to watch modding, start with simple mods, such as dial and hand swaps, before moving on to more complex mods.
• Take your time: Watch modding can be a time-consuming process, so take your time and be patient.
• Practice good technique: Use the proper tools and techniques to ensure that you do not damage any parts.
• Join a community: Join a modding community to learn from experienced modders and get advice and feedback on your mods.

Most popular brands modders use

There are many watch brands that modders use to transform, but some of the most popular ones are:

1. Seiko: Seiko is a Japanese brand that is known for producing affordable and reliable timepieces. Seiko watches are popular among modders because they have a wide range of models with easily customizable parts, such as bezels, dials, and hands.
2. Rolex: Rolex is a Swiss luxury brand that is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Rolex watches are popular among modders because they have a timeless design and high-quality construction, and the aftermarket parts available for Rolex watches are of excellent quality.
3. Omega: Omega is another Swiss luxury brand that is popular among modders. Omega watches are known for their precision and durability, and they offer a variety of models that can be easily modified with aftermarket parts.
4. Citizen: Citizen is a Japanese brand that is known for producing high-quality, affordable watches. Citizen watches are popular among modders because they offer a wide range of models with interchangeable parts, and the movements used in Citizen watches are known for their reliability and accuracy.
5. Timex: Timex is an American brand that is known for producing affordable, durable watches. Timex watches are popular among modders because they offer a wide range of models with simple designs that can be easily modified with aftermarket parts.

Modders choose these brands because they offer a wide range of models with easily customizable parts, and they are known for their quality and durability. Additionally, these brands have a loyal following, which makes it easier for modders to find and share information and resources about customizing these watches.

Popular Watch Mod Brands

• Dagaz Watch Ltd. – Dagaz is a modding brand that specializes in aftermarket parts and accessories for Seiko watches. They offer a wide range of products including hands, dials, bezels, crystals, and more. Their products are known for their high quality and unique designs.
• Yobokies – Yobokies is another popular watch modding brand that offers a range of aftermarket parts and accessories for Seiko watches. They are known for their unique designs and high-quality products. Yobokies offers parts such as hands, dials, bezels, and crystals that can be used to modify and customize Seiko watches.
• DLW Watches – DLW Watches is a watch modding brand that offers a range of aftermarket parts and accessories for various watch brands including Seiko, Citizen, and Orient. They offer parts such as dials, hands, bezels, crystals, and more. Their products are known for their high quality and reasonable prices.
• NamokiMODS – NamokiMODS is a watch modding brand that specializes in aftermarket parts and accessories for Seiko watches. They offer a wide range of products including hands, dials, bezels, crystals, and more. Their products are known for their high quality and unique designs.
• Strapcode – Strapcode is a watch accessory brand that offers a range of straps, bracelets, and watch accessories. They are known for their high-quality products and wide range of designs. Strapcode offers a variety of straps and bracelets that can be used to customize and modify watches, as well as accessories such as spring bars, buckles, and tools.

Popular Watch Modders on internet

Watch modding is a fun and rewarding hobby that allows you to create a one-of-a-kind timepiece that reflects your personality and style.

With the right tools, techniques, and inspiration, anyone can learn to do it.

Whether you are a seasoned watch enthusiast or a beginner, watch modding offers endless possibilities for creativity and customization.