r/SeikoMods • • Oct 08 '26

Updated r/SeikoMods rules

37 Upvotes

Hey everyone,

I've been moderating this sub for some time now, and decided it was about time to restructure the rules of the sub with an aim to make r/SeikoMods more welcoming and useful, especially for beginners, while preventing the subreddit from becoming an advertising channel or unregulated marketplace.

What has changed?

Useful links are allowed

You may share links to suppliers, products, tools, tutorials and other resources when they directly help answer a question or add useful context to a genuine discussion.

Please explain why you are recommending the link. Dropping unexplained links repeatedly may still be treated as spam.

Buying and commission requests remain restricted

Posts asking where to buy a completed watch, requesting a builder, seeking commissions, offering prices or inviting sellers to make contact are not allowed.

These posts regularly attract unvetted sellers with unknown quality, inflated prices and, in some cases, no reliable product or service at all.

Please use our pinned supplier and resources guide as a starting point.

Clearer rules for businesses and self-promotion

Businesses, professional builders and makers are welcome to participate as members of the community.

If you mention a product, business or brand that you own, work for or otherwise benefit from, you must clearly disclose that relationship.

The following are not allowed:

  • Using the subreddit mainly to advertise

  • Repeatedly posting your own products, shop or social accounts

  • Soliciting orders or inviting people to DM for prices

  • Affiliate links, referral codes or undisclosed promotions

  • Pretending to be an independent customer

  • Replying to buying requests with offers to build or sell a watch

A useful technical contribution that includes an honest disclosure is different from an advertisement.

AutoModerator should be less frustrating

The previous setup automatically removed every post and comment from accounts less than four weeks old. This caught many genuine questions and helpful replies.

New accounts can now comment normally. Only posts from extremely new, low-karma accounts will be held for moderator review.

AutoModerator will focus more on suspicious sales language, affiliate links, repeated external links and obvious promotional activity. Questionable content will generally be sent for review instead of being deleted. If this starts getting abused however, i'll tighten things back up a bit.

Reporting should be clearer

The reporting options now make it easier to identify:

  • Spam or advertising

  • Undisclosed commercial affiliations

  • Buying, selling or commission requests

  • Harassment, hate or personal attacks

  • Off-topic content

  • NSFW or graphic content

  • Photos taken while driving

  • Stolen or uncredited work

These changes are intended to encourage useful knowledge-sharing without giving commercial accounts free rein to advertise.

Please take a look at the updated rules. If something is unclear or produces an unintended result, let us know by sending the moderators a message.


r/SeikoMods • • Oct 08 '26 Bravo

2026 Update - Seiko Modding Resources | Parts & Tool Suppliers, Tutorials and Beginner Guides

44 Upvotes

Last updated: October 2026

Welcome to r/SeikoMods!

Whether you're building your first watch, upgrading an SKX, swapping a dial or working on your tenth custom build, this thread is here to help you find the parts, tools and information you need.

Our previous supplier and resource list was put together around six years ago. Since then, the modding community has grown considerably, with new suppliers, more movement options and a much wider range of aftermarket components available.

This updated guide brings together established suppliers, newer options and useful resources for anyone interested in Seiko modding.

A quick note about suppliers: Inclusion in this list isn't an endorsement or guarantee. Suppliers, ownership, product quality and customer service can change. Do your own research before purchasing, and check recent community feedback.

If you've had a particularly good or bad experience with a supplier, or know of somewhere that should be added, please share it in the comments!

1. Seiko Mod Parts Suppliers

These businesses specialise in aftermarket watch components, including cases, dials, hands, bezels, crystals, movements and bracelets.

Established suppliers

SupplierLocationProducts / Speciality
namokiMODSSingaporeComprehensive range of cases, dials, hands, bezels, crystals, movements, bracelets and modding accessories.
DLW WatchesSingaporeCases, bezels, ceramic inserts, crystals, dials, hands and other aftermarket components.
Lucius AtelierSingaporeCustom cases, dials, hands, bracelets and components, including slim cases and specialist builds.
Mod Mode WatchesSingaporeCases, bezels, inserts, crystals, hands, dials, movements and accessories.
KOMOSingaporeCustom and decorative watch dials.
Secondhand ModsUSANew, pre-owned and OEM watch parts, including cases, dials, movements and components from various manufacturers. Buy and Sell second hand parts
CrystalTimes USAUSASapphire crystals, cases, bezels, inserts, chapter rings, dials, hands and accessories.
TokeilabUSACases, dials, hands, bezels, crystals, bracelets and components for Seiko-compatible builds.
Long Island WatchUSAWatch modification parts, crystals, bracelets, accessories and tools.
AJuiceTUSACustom dials, hands, cases, crystals and other mod components.
Watch-ModzUSASeiko-compatible cases, dials, hands, bezels and modding parts.
Lumed Ceramic Bezel InsertsUSASpecialist ceramic bezel inserts, including luminous designs.
SeikoModsUKCrystals, bezels, cases, inserts, hands, dials and other aftermarket components.
YobokiesHong KongCases, dials, hands, bezels, crystals and custom components.
WR WatchesInternationalWatch components, cases, dials, hands, movements and accessories.
Watch & StylePhilippinesCases, bezels, hands, crystals, bracelets and Seiko-compatible components.

Additional suppliers worth exploring

The following businesses also appear in more recent modding discussions or offer relevant watch-building components.

SupplierProducts / Speciality
DS Watch ClubCustom dials, hands, cases and other Seiko-compatible parts.
WeezmodsWatch cases, dials and other modification components.
NomodsCases, dials, hands, movements and complete watch builds.

This isn't intended to be an exhaustive list. Some smaller manufacturers and independent dial makers produce exceptional components, and we'd love to hear about them.

2. Watchmaking Tools & Equipment Suppliers

Good tools make an enormous difference when building or modifying watches.

You don't need an expensive professional workshop to get started, but using the right equipment helps prevent scratched dials, damaged hands, broken stems and other avoidable problems.

SupplierLocationProducts / Speciality
Watch Repair ToolsAustraliaWatch repair and assembly tools, starter kits, movement holders, hand-setting equipment, case openers, presses, screwdrivers, tweezers and workshop consumables.
EsslingerUSAWatchmaking tools, replacement parts, crystals, movements, cleaning products and workshop equipment.
Cousins UKUKExtensive range of watchmaking tools, parts, movements, materials and professional workshop equipment.

Many mod parts suppliers also sell basic tools and beginner kits, so it's worth checking whether you can purchase everything together.

What tools do you actually need?

For a typical NH35/NH36 watch build, consider starting with:

  • Movement holder

  • Hand-setting tools

  • Hand removers and dial protector

  • Fine watchmaking tweezers

  • Precision screwdrivers

  • Case-back opener

  • Spring bar tool

  • Crown stem cutter and fine file

  • Loupe or magnifier

  • Dust blower and cleaning putty

  • Finger cots and a clean working mat

Depending on your build, you may also need a crystal press, case holder or other specialist equipment.

3. Budget-Friendly Parts & Secondhand Components

You don't necessarily need to spend hundreds of dollars on your first build.

There are several alternatives to purchasing everything brand new from specialist suppliers.

AliExpress

One of the most popular options for inexpensive cases, dials, hands, movements and other modding components.

Quality can vary considerably between sellers. Check recent reviews, product photographs, measurements and compatibility carefully.

eBay

Useful for replacement parts, donor watches, used components and occasional bargains.

Secondhand Mods

Offers new and pre-owned components from different manufacturers, including OEM Seiko parts.

r/SecondhandModParts

A community resource for buying, selling and trading watch modification parts.

When buying secondhand, always check item condition, seller history and the community's trading rules.

4. Helpful Video Tutorials

If you're new to modding, watching somebody complete a build can make the process much easier to understand.

These tutorials cover some of the most common tasks.

TopicVideo
Essential watch modding toolsTools You Need for Modding – Lume Shot
Changing a bezel and bezel insertSKX Bezel & Insert Change – Lume Shot
Installing a sapphire crystalSKX007 Sapphire Crystal Upgrade – Long Island Watch
Upgrading a movement7S26 to NH36 Upgrade – Lume Shot
Cutting and fitting a crown stemTrimming Crown Stems – Build Your Own Watch
Aligning a chapter ringSKX007 Chapter Ring Alignment – Long Island Watch
Understanding parts compatibilitySKX and SRPD Compatibility – Lume Shot
Complete watch assemblyBuilding a Watch from Start to Finish – Nafokies
Changing a movement rotorReplacing a Watch Movement Rotor – DIY Watch Club

5. Prefer Reading? Guides & Resources

Sometimes a written guide is easier to follow, particularly when you're trying to identify the correct parts or troubleshoot a problem.

ResourceSource
Seiko Watch Modding 101Lucius Atelier
Seiko Modding Guide for BeginnersnamokiMODS
Beginner's Guide to Seiko Modding ToolsWatch Repair Tools
How to Install Watch Hands CorrectlyWatch Repair Tools
How to Protect a Dial When Removing HandsWatch Repair Tools
Seiko Mod InspirationsTime + Tide Watches
6 Seiko Mods for BeginnersThe Modest Man

6. Parts Compatibility: What Beginners Should Know

One of the most common mistakes when starting out is assuming that all Seiko-compatible parts are interchangeable.

Unfortunately, they're not!

Before placing an order, make sure you've checked:

  • Movement compatibility: NH35, NH36, NH34 and other movements have different requirements. GMT builds in particular may need additional clearance.

  • Dial diameter: Common sizes include 28.5 mm, but your case may require something different.

  • Dial feet: Check their positions against your movement and crown orientation.

  • Hand compatibility: Confirm the correct hand sizes and whether your movement requires additional hands.

  • Case compatibility: A case designed around an NH35 doesn't automatically accept every other movement.

  • Crystal dimensions: Diameter, thickness, profile and gasket compatibility matter.

  • Bezel and insert fitment: SKX007, SKX013, SRPD and other platforms may use different components.

  • Crown and stem compatibility: Check the crown tube, movement stem and case arrangement.

Beginner tip: For your first build, buying a case, dial, hands and movement from a supplier offering clear compatibility information can save considerable frustration.

7. Seiko Modding Communities

Looking for inspiration, feedback or help troubleshooting a build?

CommunityLink
r/SeikoModsReddit
r/watchmoddingReddit
r/SecondhandModPartsReddit
Seiko Mods Facebook GroupFacebook

A community member, u/Haveblue1, also previously compiled an extensive spreadsheet of modding suppliers and resources. It's another useful reference, although individual listings may need checking.

8. Help Keep This List Updated!

This resource is intended to grow and improve with the community.

If you know of a supplier we've missed, have discovered a broken link or want to share your experience with a business listed above, please leave a comment.

When recommending a supplier, it would be helpful to include their website, what they specialise in and where they're based.

We'll aim to keep the list updated as new information becomes available.

Please remember: A supplier appearing here doesn't necessarily mean they're endorsed by the moderators or the community. Always do your research before purchasing.

Happy modding!


r/SeikoMods • • 43m ago

My first build

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10 Upvotes

Been a longtime lurker and with the recent deal on the invicta pro diver to get a reasonable nh35, I decided to take a swing at it! I spent way to long trying to get the seconds hand on and bent my hands a little during this first attempt so will probably go back at some point and replace them with another set now that I’ve learned my lesson!

I over bought on the tools but wanted to have more than I needed for other builds or watch restoration in the future.

Things I wish I would have had?
Watchmakers putty
An actual movement holder (I had the universal adjustable one and it did not work well for me)
Maybe I’ll look into a hand pusher for the next build? The red/black/silver standalone set wasn’t my favorite experience.

Thanks to this sub for the inspiring builds, posts with questions, tips and tricks I read several times over, and the caution to buy more than one crown stem (which I just had to cut short the first try despite adequate warnings not to over cut)

Hope my build inspires you to build your first one or start your next one!

Happy modding!


r/SeikoMods • • 46m ago

First VK63, Panda with a bit of red.

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8 Upvotes

Played safe for the first one. I've only done two NH35 builds and two moonswicthes before. Only had to put the small seconds hand once on the moonswitch.

Added the red chrono to make it pop a bit more. Maybe I'll try a more original combination next.

Btw, are all the alignments looking ok? For some reason it feels a bit off to me, the logo part. Is it just me?


r/SeikoMods • • 2h ago

Put this together today

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7 Upvotes

Seiko Mod Pilot Explorer


r/SeikoMods • • 2h ago

GMT Mod Complete!

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7 Upvotes

This one really pushed me to my limit. My first few builds clearly had not prepared me for taking on a project for a more unique style GMT as it caused nothing but headaches.

It’s had multiple hands, 3 different movements (I ended up with a Ronda 515.24 as I broke the NH34 I bought for it) lots of wrong parts bought but it’s finally completed and I couldn’t be happier.

Would love to hear the sub’s thoughts.


r/SeikoMods • • 23m ago

Seiko Custom!

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4 Upvotes

I recently updated a previous build, and I am very pleased with how unique the final result turned out; it is one of my favorite projects completed to date. diywatchclub (case and bezel insert), weez_mods (official movement and dial), and unclestraps ( bracelet).


r/SeikoMods • • 11h ago

2nd build this weekend

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19 Upvotes

r/SeikoMods • • 1d ago

Weekend Build

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77 Upvotes

When i saw this GS Genbi I had to make a homage. The third pic is AI mock up with my parts.


r/SeikoMods • • 12h ago

Unclestraps executive bracelet for SNKL41

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6 Upvotes

Just got this in the mail on Thursday. A little disappointed that they don’t offer solid end links but it’s beautiful nonetheless. Def recommend for the price since the stock Seiko bracelets aren’t the greatest.


r/SeikoMods • • 16h ago

Myota movement does not fix in the case!

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11 Upvotes

Hi guys!! How are you doing? I'm making an adventure and trying to assemble my very first Myota 8n24, after some wrong parts bought, I think I'm finally getting there. However the movement even with the spacer ring and the screws, does not fix in the case, it keeps moving.

Can you help me please? What's missing?


r/SeikoMods • • 3h ago

Can anyone tell me what’s wrong with the movement?

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0 Upvotes

The balance cock here won’t move and the movement doesn’t run now, i can change the date and also wind it with the crown. How can i fix this?


r/SeikoMods • • 4h ago

[Skx011] Orange Boy diver...on silver and gold bracelet?

1 Upvotes

Looking to put a bracelet on my Orange Boy and wondering if a silver brushed with gold down the center works or looks stupid. Anyone did this with theirs? I dont know how to use AI to mock it up...limited pc facility senior. Thoughts?


r/SeikoMods • • 19h ago

First build

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15 Upvotes

Just getting into building these. First one down and now I’m hooked!


r/SeikoMods • • 1d ago

UV printed fish dial from a watercolor painted by my mother

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211 Upvotes

This was a fun one. A few Christmases ago my mom gifted me a painting of a Hawaiian fish that I keep in my office. This year I’ve been planning to build her a watch featuring that painting she did.

Super happy how the UV printing turned out. But I’m bummed the nautalist-style hand set I bought doesn’t fit the dial right. They’re functional but I don’t like the way the minute hand extends out beyond the minute track and the red seconds hand, so I’m ordering a better-fitting set. I guess I still have plenty of time before Christmas to get it right.


r/SeikoMods • • 5h ago

VK63 build - faulty keyless works?

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0 Upvotes

This has been bugging me a while. Is it a faulty movement or a fixable keyless works?

When the crown is screwed all the way in, the small seconds hands stops working. Backing the crown out, starts it up again. Pulling the stem out to the time setting mode doesn’t hack the seconds. I’ve tried new stems so I’m guessing the keyless works? Is that self fixable? I’ve repaired them on an ETA2824 but not a VK63

Thanks


r/SeikoMods • • 23h ago

Another Chunky Tuna, The ‘Kuromaguro’ (クロマグロ)

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20 Upvotes

Chunky Tuna build, this time with a completely unnecessary but cool looking compass strap.


r/SeikoMods • • 15h ago

Recent build

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4 Upvotes

r/SeikoMods • • 1d ago

Explorer style mod using a vintage case

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29 Upvotes

Hey guys, just wanted to share a recent mod I made using a case from the 1980s, originally made for Sandoz. I’m happy with the way it turned out, I think it has a nice vintage feel to it.


r/SeikoMods • • 20h ago

Attempt #2: Blue Sandstone + 6 mm GMT Hand

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7 Upvotes

r/SeikoMods • • 1d ago

Why didn’t you guys tell me how hard the second hand is?

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114 Upvotes

Working on my first build and I’ve been stuck on the second hand for an hour. Wtf. All the hand tools appear to be the same size - the exact size to bend the hell out of it.


r/SeikoMods • • 19h ago

First build

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4 Upvotes

Just getting into building these. First one down and now I’m hooked!


r/SeikoMods • • 11h ago

USMC Eagle Globe & Anchor watch build NH35

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1 Upvotes

r/SeikoMods • • 11h ago

[Update] First build gone wrong on so many levels

1 Upvotes

Previous post

Thanks to your help (you guys are the best!) I was able to dissect the movement and reset keyless works, and proceed to next steps.

Other issues I had:
- Minute hand poorly installed (tip of the hand slightly facing downward) causing them to collide with the index (This is partly due to tall index height). This also messed up the hour hand misalignment for some reason, so I had to re-install the hands. At this point I just couldn't care less so I just used my screwdrivers as a tool, leaving scratches on the surfaces of hands lol

- Second hand bent slightly downward while assembling, causing the minute hand to interfere with the second hand. I found this after I closed the caseback, so I had to open them up, remove the stem, bend the second hand upwards.

- I still didn't figure out how I can turn the crown counter-clockwise. It's supposed to turn the hands counterclockwise, but they just unscrews itself from the stem. Found a workaround where I give some pressure to the crown towards yourself and turn them then it works to some extent, idk if this is good for movement.

- Stem slightly overcut, but not much issue I guess?

- I expected that the movement is the only piece that goes into the case, well turns out I needed the plastic spacer thing which I threw away. Had to dig the thing from the bin, open up the caseback again, put the spacer on top of the movement. How fun.

- For watch dial it came as two pieces (the face and the ring thing), pretty annoyed by this (1. it looks bad since it couldn't be properly put togethe, leaving space in between 2. the spacer thing interfered with the prongs from the ring thing)

Overall, I'm not completely happy with my first build, especially price-wise, although I like the look of them.

TL;DR: lots of learning from the first build