Blogs: DIY Watches and More

Oct 18, 2025

Finding a quality automatic watch without breaking the bank used to be nearly impossible. Not anymore. The market has completely changed over the past few years. Today, you can get exceptional auto...

Oct 17, 2025

Key Takeaways Watch crystals protect movements and require replacement when scratched, cracked, or cloudy Three main crystal types exist: acrylic (easiest DIY), mineral, and sapphire (professio...

Oct 16, 2025

Key Takeaways DIY watch cost ranges from $140-$240 for complete kits with movements, tools, and lifetime warranty Individual watch assembly cost breaks down to $39-$47 for movements plus $50-$1...

Oct 13, 2025

Key Takeaways DIY watch kits use identical movements (Seiko NH36, Miyota 8215) found in $500 store-bought watches Movement quality determined by accuracy (±20-40 sec/day), jewel count (21-24), ...

Oct 9, 2025

Key Takeaways Swiss quartz movements deliver accuracy within ±15 seconds per year, far surpassing mechanical alternatives ETA Precidrive technology achieves ±10 seconds annually, making it the ...

Oct 8, 2025

Key Takeaways DIY watch kits create lasting memories through hands-on building experiences Complete kits include all tools, movements, and guides for successful assembly Difficulty levels range fr...

Oct 7, 2025

Key Takeaways New Seiko NH36 movements cost $35-$70 depending on seller and regulation Refurbished NH36 movements are rare and unreliable for modding projects Trusted retailers offer factory-regul...

Oct 6, 2025

Key Takeaways Watch gaskets create sealed barriers at the caseback, crown, and crystal to prevent water intrusion Water resistance ratings measure pressure tolerance, not submersion depth or sw...

Sep 18, 2025

Key Takeaways Rinse with fresh water after every swim and rotate the bezel under the stream. Dry with a microfiber cloth and avoid heat, hairdryers, and sunny dashboards. Keep the crown pushed, ne...

Sep 17, 2025

Key Takeaways Most watch running fast cases trace to regulation drift, positional variance, shock, or contamination. Baseline first. Log gains across 24 to 48 hours in several rest positions. Star...

Sep 15, 2025

Key Takeaways Fully wind first, then check hands and date clearances to rule out drag. Test in two positions for 6 hours each to isolate rate issues before adjusting. Nudge the regulator toward "+...

Sep 15, 2025

60-Second Key Takeaways How to regulate a watch movement tune rate only, not a full service. Target on-wrist average near 0 to +10 seconds per day for NH35 and NH36. Regulate an NH35 Movement and ...