Daytona - Transparent Caseback Review/Install.. (part I)

[Tools]

The 4130 is a great looking movement.. It can be displayed with an aftermarket transparent Case-back.

Let's review one in this part.

this case back is from Mr. Thomas Preik, German Master Watchmaker.

Here is what it looks like:
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0234.jpg

Here is the candidate for the transplant... a modern 116520 SS Daytona..
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0232copy.jpg

The clear case back has a clear viewing area that is 1.100"/28mm in diameter. That is similar to the Dial which is 1.200"/30.48mm in diameter.
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0236copy.jpg

The Sapphire thickness is .038"/.96mm - this compares exactly to the thickness of the Daytona case back which is also .038"/.96mm at the center.
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0241.jpg

The machine work is excellent, threads are clean, and the inside diameter is nicely finished too.
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0240.jpg

I've polished up the glass, and set it aside until I get the old back off and things cleaned up and ready:
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0243copy.jpg

Maybe next time, we'll actually put it on......:dude:

[Tools]

If you have been following, we have taken a look at a transparent case-back for the Daytona in part 1, and are installing that case-back in part II

This is the candidate watch and clear case-back:
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0232copy.jpg

The first step is to take off the bracelet so we can work without any additional fuss or interference:
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0244copy.jpg

Once we have our parts accessible and our tools on hand, we need to remove the old case-back. Here I have mounted it in a case-back removal tool and will install and use the 29.5mm case-back socket:
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0245copy.jpg

With the case-back off, we can see that some build-up of grit, dirt, and residue is around where the original back was.. this will need to be cleaned up before installing the transparent back:
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0246copy.jpg
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0250.jpg

After a bit of clean-up, and fitting a good O-ring that has been lightly coated with silicone grease, we finger tighten our new transparent case-back into place:
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0251copy.jpg

Back into the case-back tool, and using a spanner set properly, we final tighten our case-back in place:
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0253copy.jpg

Not a bad look at all:
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0256copy.jpg

Let's shine a light on our movement:
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0256bcopy.jpg

With the proper tools, the whole operation is less than 5 minutes... then it's down to the local watchmaker for a pressure check..

...........Everything is OK................:cheers:
http://i484.photobucket.com/albums/rr202/WatchWorkshop/Clear%20Daytona%20Back/IMG_0256acopy.jpg

[the KING]

Awesome looking watch!!!

[Tony-GB]

Larry, stunning as usual. :thumbsup:

That caseback really suits the Daytona. :thumbsup:

Thanks for sharing

:rofl:

[hsung]

Thanks Larry for the step by step workshop pics :thumbsup:

Are the gold painted letters real or just normal paint?

[Lol-x]

Fantastic work Larry :thumbsup:
I think this looks great, and Rolex has helped out with that red printing on the rotor. Maybe Rolex knew this movement was destined for a clear caseback :chuckle: :thinking: :twit:

Does the clear caseback increase the thickness of the watch? If so did you have to do a bracelet adjustment?

:cheers:

[jmsrolls]

Looking good, Larry! :thumbsup:

How's the fit and feel on the wrist?

I finally gave up on the display back on my EXPII. I never got accustomed to the added size and extra weight on my round wrist. Now another forum member will give it a go.

On the other hand, I love the way Thomas's back wears on my Omega 2254.50 SMP. I plan to add one to my 2255.80 as soon as funds in the watch account permit.

Fr. John†

[Tools]

Fantastic work Larry :thumbsup:
I think this looks great, and Rolex has helped out with that red printing on the rotor. Maybe Rolex knew this movement was destined for a clear caseback :chuckle: :thinking: :twit:

Does the clear caseback increase the thickness of the watch? If so did you have to do a bracelet adjustment?

:cheers:


Looking good, Larry! :thumbsup:

How's the fit and feel on the wrist?

I finally gave up on the display back on my EXPII. I never got accustomed to the added size and extra weight on my round wrist. Now another forum member will give it a go.

On the other hand, I love the way Thomas's back wears on my Omega 2254.50 SMP. I plan to add one to my 2255.80 as soon as funds in the watch account permit.

Fr. John†

All of the casebacks seem to add about a half mm to the thickness. It is extremely slight.. Where you notice it is that the thickness of the clear case-back extends more broadly across the back... In other words, it doesn't taper as much near the edges, and as Fr. John mentions, he finds that extra width uncomfortable.. Personally, I do not and do use a clear caseback on one of my Exp II's..

Neither watch needed a bracelet adjustment for the same fit........:cheers:

[Bon Temps]

That is one gorgeous watch. I think the movement is beautiful. Very nice work Larry.

[Pep04]

Can you do that clear back to any rolex?

[meshari]

That is Amazing Thanks For Sharing

[Nicko16]

Looks good! Love seeing that Bleu hairspring lol!

[Alsey]

I've often thought it would be great to see that beautiful movement inside..
Great job and thankyou for sharing this..:thumbsup:

Any chance we can see the EXP II you mentioned?

[Tools]

I've often thought it would be great to see that beautiful movement inside..
Great job and thankyou for sharing this..:thumbsup:

Any chance we can see the EXP II you mentioned?

The EXP II is showcased here in the Reference Library under the Amateur Watchmakers Corner..........:cheers:

[Alsey]

The EXP II is showcased here in the Reference Library under the Amateur Watchmakers Corner..........:cheers:

:cheers::cheers:

[TSW]

Looks awsome Larry!!! May i ask what the price is for the caseback??

[HunterST]

Wow - when I read the top of the post I really had my doubts about it, but it really does look great.

[p-hunter]

http://www.uhrarmbandonline.de/epages/mediaprodukte.sf/en_US/?ObjectPath=/Shops/mediaprodukte/Categories/Glasboden/Rolex

[R S]

Larry, the Daytona looks great. I ordered a transparent caseback from Mr. Preik for my speedmaster, but my local watchmaker says it sits 3-4mm above the case when screwed down and he wouldn't suggest leaving it like that. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. RS

[vitix]

que belleza Larry!!!

[MagedMS]

Great workshop detailed pics... Thanks Larry for sharing.

[tachif]

Does applying this caseback any warranty would be gone??????

[SubKing]

hey larry,
i was just wondering, what made you choose this caseback over swiss watch customs case, which looks closer to factory with the same kind of teeth the rolex casebacks have? i just ordered on from them, but now im thinking, is your better? i was wondering how much the caseback costs because swiss watch customs are going for 275, ouch.

looks amazing btw

[Tools]

hey larry,
i was just wondering, what made you choose this caseback over swiss watch customs case, which looks closer to factory with the same kind of teeth the rolex casebacks have? i just ordered on from them, but now im thinking, is your better? i was wondering how much the caseback costs because swiss watch customs are going for 275, ouch.

looks amazing btw

If I had a caseback from Swiss Watch Customs, I would do a review of theirs too.. I understand that the teeth are for looks only and so you cannot use a caseback tool to torque them down like you can with the Preik version ..

[SubKing]

i just went to the swiss watch customs site. it said in small small print,
"Our sapphire casebacks cannot be installed using the standard Rolex tool. A rubber tool or a ball opener should be used to install your caseback. Click here to learn more about the installation of our Sapphhire Casebacks for Rolex."

i hope it works bc i just bought one so i hope its not down the drain.

omg i just checked out the Preik cases, they cost a small fortune probably for a good reason.. i feel like mines cheap now. i hope it works out.

larry, do you think my LG case rench would work on it? it has different heads.

[Stipey]

Looks great Larry. Just a question... how much torque is necessary for tighten the caseback?

[bewithabob]

the movement is so beautiful, it is a shame not to be able to see, with the Rolex approved case back, it as you have demonstrated here. I guess you would have to change it back to the original case back in order to send it in for warranty service... I wish I could have this view of my Daytona every day....

[Andrew Bailey]

Hi Thomas, does this fit 16520 'E' series as well ?

[jenzo]

Larry,

i got the caseback installed but before i pressure tested my watch guy asked for the thickness of the crystal. do you happen to know? he didnt feel too confident testing for fear the crystal would break and damage the movement.

he said anything short of 1MM would be insufficient.

any idea?

-jenzo

[Tools]

Larry,

i got the caseback installed but before i pressure tested my watch guy asked for the thickness of the crystal. do you happen to know? he didnt feel too confident testing for fear the crystal would break and damage the movement.

he said anything short of 1MM would be insufficient.

any idea?

-jenzo

The crystal is Sapphire, the same as the front crystal.. It is 1mm thick....:cheers:

[Latrodectus]

That is beautiful. Great looking. I just love it. Thank you for the those fantastic pictures!

[jenzo]

The crystal is Sapphire, the same as the front crystal.. It is 1mm thick....:cheers:

thank you sir! and thanks for the caseback find :) i really love looking at that movement. such a beautiful thing to hide behind a dull stock case...

-jenzo

[orioner]

Does the clear caseback affect depth rating?

[Lol-x]

The depth rating is not affected with quality made casebacks, but in fitting such a caseback it is prudent to have it pressure tested (to ensure it has been fitted and operates correctly).

[directioneng]

Hey Stevo,

Did you put your one on? If not can you wear the 1655?

[spuds]

I'm impressed!

[Shade]

I'm planning to purchase a transparent caseback for my YG Daytona, however, it looks like Thomas Preik is not offering the caseback in YG version... and putting a steel cover on a YG watch is like wearing a suit with hawaiian shorts... so...

What are my options here friends?

I already emailed Mr. Thomas asking about the YG version, or should I just purchase the ss version and have it chromed into YG? Would it wear off easily the gold? Since I sweat alot...

Thanks!

[conrail]

*bump*

Has anyone recently done this clear display back - thoughts on it? Seems as though it doesn't add any noticeable thickness?

[rxonmymind]

Just ran into this thread. I would love to have the Dj with a back like that looks great!

[Shade]

I completély forgot about this! Time to recheck where to buy one and install it on my daytona!

[conrail]

I completély forgot about this! Time to recheck where to buy one and install it on my daytona!

I ordered one last night for my Daytona and will be taking it to a local watchsmith when it arrives and will post some pics and thoughts. I love the slim Rolex caseback on the Daytona and I'm going to be paying attention to how much Preik's affects the wearability :cheers:

[sheldonsmith]

http://www.minus4plus6.com/images/preik_new/thumbnails/16710T_flush.jpg http://www.minus4plus6.com/images/preik_new/thumbnails/16710T_Done.jpg
I just received one of Thomas' new casebacks with the Rolex style indentations that utilizes a Rolex tool. The newer casebacks are cool. I installed it on a 16710. (FWIW, I have the DIY and more images on my sapphire casebacks page (http://www.minus4plus6.com/caseback.htm#preik_new).

-Sheldon

[directioneng]

Hi Sheldon,

I tried my 29.5 and it wouldn't fit the Daytona clear caseback.

[sleddog]

Hi Sheldon,

I couldn't find a Rolex tool to fit this caseback.

Must look for a 29.5.

I remember you mentioning this before Eddie on Al's thread....
TP does state in his (or did) that the new casebacks with the teeth design do use the 29.5mm Rolex key!!
So I'm curious as to why your tools wouldn't fit Martin's caseback?!?!
Was it a From Mr Preik??

[sheldonsmith]

Yes, I used a 29.5 tool on the new Preik caseback. Worked like a charm. The Swiss Watch Customs caseback like the one here (http://www.minus4plus6.com/caseback.htm#116710) has similar serrations that won't work with a Rolex caseback tool.
-Sheldon

[directioneng]

I rang Martin.

He confirmed that the clear caseback he has could not be screwed on with 29.5 and we tried both his and mine.
He eventually removed the original caseback from his Daytona with the 29.5 but screwed the clear caseback back on with a rubber ball.
He will advise me of the supplier of his clear back when he finds the details.

[sleddog]

Yes, I used a 29.5 tool on the new Preik caseback. Worked like a charm. The Swiss Watch Customs caseback like the one here (http://www.minus4plus6.com/caseback.htm#116710) has similar serrations that won't work with a Rolex caseback tool.
-Sheldon
Thanks for the reply Sheldon..:thumbsup:

I rang Martin.

He confirmed that the clear caseback he has could not be screwed on with 29.5 and we tried both his and mine.
He eventually removed the original caseback from his Daytona with the 29.5 but screwed the clear caseback back on with a rubber ball.
He will advise me of the supplier of his clear back when he finds the details.

Interested to know......I bet Sheldon's answer is the reason though..!
I can't imagine getting a good waterproof seal with the ball technique...He had it pressure tested after Eddie?

[directioneng]

Yes, Martin's was a Swiss Watch Customs.

I doubt he had it pressure tested but who in their right mind would get their Daytona wet?

:lol:

[sleddog]

Yes, Martin's was a Swiss Watch Customs.

I doubt he had it pressure tested but who in their right mind would get their Daytona wet?

:lol:

:rolleyes::rolleyes: Ummmmm.........Me!:twit:

Thanks for letting me know, as that had me wondering for a while now!

[sheldonsmith]

The Swiss Watch Customs caseback is entirely different from the Preik; the Preik caseback is completely flat sapphire crystal back whereas the SWI caseback is raised and beveled like the original caseback. I tried using the rubber ball on the SWI, but reverted to using 29.5 tool very gingerly on the caseback to insure waterproofness.

Nevertheless, both casebacks are cool!

-Sheldon

[bewithabob]

Larry- every time I look at this thread, I want a transparent caseback...

[drockadam]

Amazing! What a beautiful watch!

[leeye]

brings out the beauty of the Daytona movement!