Okay to replace a 5500 with a 1002 midcase?

[brand_c]

Asked this before but got no replies.

Just a reassurance before I drop some change on a ref.1002 case.

So i'm in the process of restoring a 1970s Air King 5500 that has a really tired looking case.

Found a really nice looking 1002 case from the early 1960s online. Anything I should be wary off before I pull the trigger?

From my research they should fit cause most 5500 air kings use 1002 casebacks?....but considering the age diff of the replacement case and my existing watch, I just want to make sure.

[MorningTundra]

I wouldn’t do it. Have the original case refinished at Rolliworks. Probably cheaper too.


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[Tools]

That's the definition of a Frankenwatch.

Do what you like, but if the inner and outer serials are from different references, it will reflect on it's desirability and value.

[Nickn]

Why not you can keep looking for a 5500 case and swap back when you find one

[brand_c]

Thanks all! Haha, it was a really nice and thick 1002 case, which was why I was considering it in the first place.

It's been kind of hard to find a nice/thick 5500 case.

I did think about Rolliworks but not sure how much it would cost since the area that needs work/thickness is near the lug holes.

[Nickn]

Fit the 1002 case and keep looking for a nice 5500 case easy and quick swop
I first reply didn’t make much sense

[brand_c]

Thanks all! I finally found a 5500 case from the late 1950s.

Given that air Kings from that period were fitted with cal 1530s, will my slightly newer (1970s) parts (cal 1520) transfer over without any complications?




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