Watch building

Damn this year has gone by fast. My current watch is one I modded/customized 4 years ago as a beater watch for the hospital. However, I’ve ended up wearing it everyday it was so versatile. The one thing I’ve been worried about, though, is its water resistance so I don’t take it into the ocean or dunk it under too much watch other than when washing my hands. So I’m thinking about building a new beater watch.

For the case, I am thinking between 40-42mm. I want something with a bezel so I can use it as a timer sometimes. I think I want a coin edge with a black insert to go along with being a more functional tool watch. Since I want better water resistance, it has to have a screw down crown. Ideally, it will also have a display back so I can also find a movement with some nice finish.

The dial is a tough one because it has to fit the case. So far, I’ve found a few options, but I think a black dial will work best and can still be dressed up with a nice leather strap. My current dial is a little busy, so I think I’ll go the opposite and go really simple. I’ll get another black date ring too to keep things clean and stealthy.

I’ve been into pilot style hands that are white with black centers to continue the clean, stealth look. I found a cool set that looks like some of the Sinn or Damasko pilot hands. As far as second hands go, there is a trend to break up the monotony of a black and white watch with a colored second hand. Most go orange, but Damasko has a really nice ultraviolet yellow second hand that I’ve been liking.

This is what I’ve come up with so far: