Hands on: DIY Watch Club Expedition
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A New Expedition into Watchmaking with the DIY Watch Club
Not so long ago, I took my first foray into building my own watch, and DIY Watch Club was the perfect starting point for this journey. My initial adventure with the DWC-D01 diver was just the beginning. Since then, I've personalized that watch, swapping out the case-back for a sapphire one and the rotor for a custom engraved piece, enhancing my appreciation for the craft. But the urge for a new project was strong, and DIY Watch Club's expanding range offered just what I needed. The Expedition model, echoing the elusive explorer style from Rolex, was an irresistible next challenge.
The DIY Watch Club Experience
Having previously invested in a complete deluxe kit for my diver build, I already had all the necessary tools, making my subsequent projects more cost-effective. This aspect of DIY Watch Club's approach is particularly appealing, as it not only makes watch building more accessible but also more affordable over time. For newcomers to watch building, the kits provide everything from tools to tutorials, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience from the start.
Unboxing the Expedition Kit
The unboxing of the Expedition kit mirrored the quality I had come to expect from DIY Watch Club. Opting for the black-dialed version, I was immediately struck by the depth and aesthetics of the sandwich dial. DIY Watch Club's attention to detail was evident in every component, from the finely finished 38mm 316L stainless steel case to the flat sapphire crystal. The engraved crown and the two sets of hands (a thoughtful inclusion considering the delicacy of hand setting) were also notable highlights.
The Expedition’s Heart: Seiko NH35 Movement
The NH35 movement, shared with the diver model, is a testament to simplicity and robustness, essential qualities for any budding watchmaker. Its ease of maintenance is a significant advantage. Viewing this movement through the display case-back adds a personal touch to the watch, allowing you to see the caliber you've assembled spring to life.
The Build Process: A Balance of Challenge and Reward
Building the Expedition was an experience marked by both familiarity and new challenges. While the steps were identical to my previous build, the knowledge I had gained made the process smoother. The most demanding and rewarding part remained setting the hands. This phase, requiring patience and precision, is where the true test of a watchmaker's mettle lies. My advice for anyone embarking on this journey is to allow sufficient time and a peaceful environment for this delicate task.
Wearing the Expedition
Upon completion, which took about an hour, the watch felt perfectly at home on my wrist. The superb legibility of the dial, combined with the case's polished and brushed finishes, made for an impressive look. The Seiko movement's performance over several weeks of wear was commendable, with minimal time deviation.
Specifications of the DIY Watch Club Expedition Watch
Case:
Material: 316L Stainless Steel
Diameter: 38mm
Crystal: Sapphire with mineral case-back
Water Resistance: Suitable for daily use, not suitable for diving
Movement:
Type: Seiko NH35 Automatic
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds
Dial:
Type: Matt black sandwich dial
Lume: BGW9 Super Lume on hands and markers
Strap:
Type: Classic NATO (20mm)
Color: Black with gold/Khaki centerline
Kit Contents of the DIY Watch Club Expedition
The Kit Includes:
Watch Case: High-quality 316L stainless steel case
Dial: Matt black sandwich dial with BGW9 Super Lume
Movement: Seiko NH35 automatic movement
Hands: Two sets of silver high polish hands with BGW9 Super Lume
Strap: Classic NATO strap, black with gold/Khaki centerline
Tools: Loupe, blower, finger cots, hand setting and removal tools, leather pad, plastic phone stand
Additional Components: Custom rotor option, multiple bezel and strap choices
Tutorial Access: Detailed instructional videos for step-by-step guidance
My Verdict on the DIY Watch Club Expedition
Would I recommend the Expedition? Absolutely. Whether it's your first build or you're an experienced builder with your tools, the Expedition kit is a winner. The 38mm case size is versatile for most wrists, and the combination of sapphire, 316L stainless steel construction, a robust movement, and a well-finished dial with excellent lume make it a reliable and attractive timepiece. The compatibility of its parts with the broader modding market adds to its appeal, offering numerous possibilities for future customization.
For anyone tempted to try assembling their watch but seeking guidance and a complete set, the Expedition from DIY Watch Club, or any of their kits, is an excellent choice. The journey of building your watch not only gives you a unique timepiece but also an invaluable experience and skill set in the fascinating world of watchmaking.
Are you interested in building your own watch from DIY Watch Club? You can find all their kits here and use code MTRWATCHES for 5% off any purchase!
