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Introduction

Hey watch enthusiasts! Welcome to the first edition of our Monthly Watch Build with Namokimods! Each month, I'll receive a curated package of watch parts from Namokimods, and together, we'll dive into the exciting world of custom watchmaking. Whether you're a seasoned modder or just starting out, this series is designed to inspire and guide you through creating your own unique timepiece.

If you're new to modding, check out my Beginner's Guide to Modding Your Seiko Watch to get started.

Who are Namokimods?

Namokimods is a leading supplier of high-quality watch modification parts. They offer a wide range of components, from cases and dials to hands and movements, making it easy for enthusiasts to create custom watches. Based in Singapore, Namokimods is renowned for its precision and attention to detail. Spend just 10 minutes on their website, and you'll be showered with an endless array of parts that fire up your imagination. Don't forget to use my discount code MTR10 at checkout for a 10% discount on your purchases. Visit their website here.

Unboxing and Initial Thoughts

I've spent a few years now tinkering and modifying watches, from swapping out bezels and inserts to complete builds. While I wouldn't call myself an expert, the fun of building your own watch to get that look just right for you is incredibly rewarding—and quite addictive! When Namokimods offered to send out these watch bundles, I thought it would be a great opportunity to explore new builds and give family members a chance to try their hand at building watches.

The anticipation of unboxing this month's package was palpable. As I peeled back the layers of packaging, I was greeted with a stunning array of parts: a sleek stainless steel case, a sapphire crystal, a vibrant dial, and more. The quality of these components is immediately apparent, and I'm eager to see how they come together.

The Build Process

Building this watch was a rewarding experience, though not without its challenges. The most intricate part was aligning the hands perfectly. My top tip here is to use a loupe for precision. The satisfaction of seeing the movement start ticking for the first time is unbeatable. The process is generally straightforward but requires a steady hand, patience, and practice. Fitting hands to a watch dial is probably the single most delicate part of the process, but as they say, practice makes perfect!

Showcasing the Finished Watch

This month's watch has a very vintage style with a bezel and that California-style dial. The California dial, a design combining Roman and Arabic numerals, originated in the 1930s and gained popularity with divers and military personnel for its easy readability. I have always been a fan of this dial style, and the faux patina on it really does give it that neo-vintage style. The classic Mercedes-style hands are a timeless choice and complement the dial beautifully. If you're looking for vintage inspiration, this is a great build to start with.

The bracelet is very sturdy and high-quality, though it might not be everyone's cup of tea. Personally, I think this build would also look fantastic on a quality leather strap. One of the joys of building your own watch is the freedom to adjust and personalize it to your taste. The case finish and the quality of the sapphire crystal are excellent, and the finished watch looks fantastic on the wrist.

Shopping List

Want to recreate this beauty? Here’s everything you’ll need:

• Case: NMK931 Field Watch Case Bundle: Steel Finish

• Dial: Vintage California Dial

• Hands: Mercedes Vintage Patina Lume Hands

• Bracelet: Straight End Watch Bracelet 5 Links - Brushed Finish

• Movement: Seiko SII NH35A Automatic Movement

• Caseback: SKX Slim Caseback - Brushed Finish

Final Thoughts

This month’s build was a fantastic start to our series. The final watch is not only a joy to wear but also a testament to the fun and creativity of watch modding. I can’t wait to see what next month brings. Feel free to share your thoughts or ask questions in the comments below. If you build something and find this new series of articles helpful or have questions, then please drop me a comment or follow me on Instagram and share your work! Have fun! Get modding!

For more on Namokimods watches, check out these articles:

• Hands-On Review: Namoki 62MAS Diver's Watch

• Getting Up Close with the Namoki Mods NMK20

• Namoki Mods NMK15: A Baby Grand Seiko for the Masses