Dial Down Sizing
Apr 17, 2018 8:17:24 GMT -8
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Post by buddhajones on Apr 17, 2018 8:17:24 GMT -8
In a previous post I did some mock-ups for mods that I have planned for my Sumos. In one of those mock-ups I discovered that one of the dials that I wanted to use was too big and would need to be sized down. Well I did that part today and I wanted to share with you all how I did it.
There are two ways to size a dial, a fast and furious way which using a dremmel that actually produces great results but has the ability to go too far too fast and a slower way using hand files. Since the tolerances are low between the dial size and the chapter ring I chose to use the hand file method.
The tools I used were hand files, large and small, a mini C-clamp and crystal press dies.
The crystal press dies are used to hold the front and back of the dial and allow enough overhang for me to file.
The raised numbers protected the lume plots nicely!
The C-clamp held everything in place. You don't want or need to apply a lot of pressure since you will have it all in your hand as well.
I actually had to flip the dies, the smaller part needs to be on the inside to allow room for the files.
The C-clamp allows you to hold the structure and turn as you file, the edges will be a little rough but you won't see them once put together. However you will want to run a diamond file over the edges to remove any burs. You don't want loose shavings in your watch.
Test fit, always stop and test for fitment, the more the better, take your time.
Close, but not there yet, still a little gap.
A few more passes with the files and we have a perfect fit!
View from the back. It's not pretty but it works. This was before I cleaned up the burs.
Movement in, no gaps.
Now I just need the hands, crown and bezel insert to show up and it's a wrap. (hopefully)
Thanks for reading.
There are two ways to size a dial, a fast and furious way which using a dremmel that actually produces great results but has the ability to go too far too fast and a slower way using hand files. Since the tolerances are low between the dial size and the chapter ring I chose to use the hand file method.
The tools I used were hand files, large and small, a mini C-clamp and crystal press dies.
The crystal press dies are used to hold the front and back of the dial and allow enough overhang for me to file.
The raised numbers protected the lume plots nicely!
The C-clamp held everything in place. You don't want or need to apply a lot of pressure since you will have it all in your hand as well.
I actually had to flip the dies, the smaller part needs to be on the inside to allow room for the files.
The C-clamp allows you to hold the structure and turn as you file, the edges will be a little rough but you won't see them once put together. However you will want to run a diamond file over the edges to remove any burs. You don't want loose shavings in your watch.
Test fit, always stop and test for fitment, the more the better, take your time.
Close, but not there yet, still a little gap.
A few more passes with the files and we have a perfect fit!
View from the back. It's not pretty but it works. This was before I cleaned up the burs.
Movement in, no gaps.
Now I just need the hands, crown and bezel insert to show up and it's a wrap. (hopefully)
Thanks for reading.
