The business of watch modding is not about creating parts, but replacing them. In other words, the watch was already completed and working before watch modder Nick Harris’s work started — just not to his specifications. By its very nature, modding relies on the modularity of lower-priced watches, usually Asian, especially the Japanese brand Seiko, which are affordable and equipped with hearty mechanical movements. Modders use preexisting watches, removing their dials, hands and bezels (and sometimes more) and replacing them with other parts to create new aesthetics atop the same base structure. The mod is based around the movement and the case, which are often the only constants in the exercise. To put it in auto terms, it’s the careful application of a custom body kit without altering the frame and drivetrain.
Harris modded this Seiko SNK809 — “one of the better automatics you can get” from Seiko at around $60 — in around an hour and a half, changing its look almost entirely thanks to a new “Cali” dial, hands and a domed crystal. The result is a custom watch that looks like it’s worth far more than it actually is.
Step 1: Clean the work area, the watch and your hands.
Harris lays out all the tools he needs, washes his hands and rolls small plastic “cots” over his fingers to ensure no oils get on the watch or its movement. “The smallest pieces of dust are generally a no-no. It’s really important to keep everything super clean”, he says. He even allows the watch’s power reserve to run out, and he sets the hands to noon and removes the strap.
Step 2: Remove the case back.
Secure the watch in a case holder, then use a use a case back remover tool to turn the case back and remove it. Sizing the case back remover is key here — a slip could damage the case.
