- 5/6/08
- 7,350
- 171
- 63
Last days i saw a lot of activity in the omega section, and thats good news! Keep it coming...
I think it's time to split the threads and spicy things up, i know some of you have some projects on they way, so i am sure this thread will get bigger in the coming weeks!
Let the game begin again...
Again as before,with the planet ocean, the parts can be sourced from CousinsUk and Ofrei
• Ofrei
• CousinsUK (You have to register here to have access)
Here you can find the numbers of the parts:
R2D4's 2531.80.00 Seamaster Parts List Reference Guide
The chrono diver reference for cousins is included also (second page).
Again many thanks to R2D4 for all this useful info!
Not that many seamaster frankens but a big variation, of watches and modifications, so i think you won't be disapointed!
Angkikee's Franken SMP Chrono
FiloViridae's Franken SMP
Francisco's Franken SMP
Idontknow's Franken Seamaster 300M chronometer quartz
mclarendude's Franken Seamaster 300M Chronometer
mclarendude's Franken SMP Franken SMP Chrono
Mr Pap's Franken SMP Chrono
Mr Pap's Franken Seamaster 300M Chronometer
Om3ga_guy's Franken SMP
Om3ga_guy's Franken SMP (2254.50.00)
Sunnydale's modded SMP Chrono
I know more are coming, stay tuned!
If i have missed anyone please do contact me as to add you.
In case you haven't read the planet ocean and you still wondering if you shoud build a franken seamaster professional, happy reading below
Is "Frankening" worth it...???
Would I buy a franken for $1000....
Why build a franken?
How do all you "UPO franken nuts" reconcile
And remember, if you still ask about making one, then its not for you
Well let's begin with the non chrono model.
Here’s a brief breakdown of the various genuine parts that will slip right into a rep case. Please note that there were never specific SMP “generations†or “classifications†like there were with the PO. Your best bet (if your looking to franken) is to find a case that already houses a 2824 or 2836 (many which have been know as “closed factory†cases in the past). 21j budget cases are dimensionally wrong and normally don’t accept gen parts properly, but I’ve seen it done for those who would like to try… ?
• Dial and Hands
The dial and hands are a straight swap as long as you’re working with some form of 2824 or 2836. Swiss or Asian clone, its all good. The dial can be installed no problem, but similar to the PO the gen dial is usually thicker than the rep part, so the dial feet will be too short. Consult a watch smith about how you can sand/flare the feet for better fitment. Everyone hates a loose dial… Hands are a straight swap, no hassle…
• Crown and Tube
The rep crown and tubes are never aesthetically accurate on the SMP, but the threads and quality are generally good. Any crown will strip if not operated properly, but with the rep SMP you wont run into the stripping problem like you do with the PO rep. Gen parts are relatively cheap through Ofrei or Cousins and the install is generally straightforward. You wont have to tap or shave your case like the rep PO. Again, it really depends on what kind of case you use as a platform for your franken project.
• Crystal
If you have installed a gen dial and gen hands you have to buy a gen Crystal, the difference is quite noticeable. The clarity is the first thing you notice, you won't stop looking at your watch. Again if you want to save some money you can just do an AR job to the existing one, it will still look much better than the stock part. Note: the gen SMP either came with single AR or no AR so when sourcing a new crystal or applying an AR coating to your current piece don’t apply a double coat. You don’t want the blue hue. Crystal should be totally clear and transparent.
• Bezel
You can buy the gen bezel, it's a little expensive but you will have the perfect colour and pearl. On the closed factory case, the bezel assembly is supposed to be a straight swap. On many other ETA cases the full assembly doesn’t always fit. Don’t worry! The insert dimensions are generally the same so you can remove the gen insert from the gen bezel ring and install it on the rep bezel ring. The finished product still looks 100% gen (some sanding of the insert may be required for optimal fitment). Click spring construction and quality varies by case. Many of the rep SMP’s have decent rotating/clicking action. If yours slips or is loose, one option is to try removing the bezel and tweaking the click spring wire configuration. I did it with my own franken and it now clicks like the gen! Another options is to attempt the floss mod. The floss mod only helps tighten the bezel, it won’t fix the consistency of the clicking…this is one area where the PO reps got it right ?
• HE Valve
Some say it’s an unnecessary modification, because the moneys a lot and the difference is minimal. The rep valve are pretty darn good… In the case that you do get one you will need to use epoxy there from the inside to waterproof it. Not a bad modification for sure…
• Datewheel
If your working with an ETA or Asian clone than the mod may not be necessary. If for some reason your datewheel is wrong, Ofrei and Cousins carries the ETA datewheel for about $10…a must if you’re swapping the dial out.
• Caseback
Who will see the caseback? No one... How much does it cost? A lot! If you want to make the difference then buy one. There is no anti counterfeit globe logo on the old SMP’s so don’t worry about it… just make sure the Sea horse is intact and that the correct “Seamaster†spelling is there. If you have to cut something from the budget, this would have to be one of the first items...
• Strap and Bracelet
The steel bracelet is damn expensive! If you want to buy one then get one. The rep bracelets generally suck and nothing beats the gen piece. The reps have terrible clasps, the branding is totally wrong and the end links are typically cheap one piece links as oppose to the gen which are made up of 9 pieces… You can usually find a decent used one on eBay or in the sales area. A reasonable alternative to the steel bracelet iif you want “gen†is the gen rubber strap. It’s a fraction of the gen steel price and it looks bad ass on the SMP. I did it with mine.
Many thanks to Omega_guy for all the above information! Thank you Kevin!!!
Let's see now some details about the chrono diver model:
• Dial and Hands
Well if you want to install a gen dial, most likely you will go with the old model. The new one is really expensive at the moment, if you manage to find one. If you like the new style, you can keep the rep one, it's very good and close to the real deal, as the hour and minute hads.
The small hands though are short. They are supposed to reach at the end of the subdials. If you want to fix that buy the gen ones, but be carefull, for the new model (case ref:178.0522) cause if you buy the old style ones they will still appear short.
• Crown and Tube
The rep crown is really close. It screws done very smooth. But if you want to install a gen one remember to buy the gen tube also cause gen crown won't fit rep tube.
• Chrono Pushers
Well if you are lucky enough to find a pair, prepare for pain. The gens are screw in while the rep ones are just pressed in. Yes, you will have to create threads in the case as to fit the gens!
• Crystal
One of the things i didn't like. Too blurry. As usual best choice is the gen crystal, next one is an ar treatment by our specialists.
• Bezel
Worst part in my opinion. Kind of loose, pearl is bad, as in all seamasters, color is different and font of numbers a little bit off too. Priority number one if you ask me.
• HE Valve
Damn close. If you are a maniac, like me, you can do the change, but its really good with correct position as well...
• Datewheel
Always a good and cheap update. The font is thicker and kind of makes the difference. Put it on your list if you are keeping the clone movement.
• Caseback
Again, who will see the case back? None... Quality is good, counterfeit globe is there as well, so again if you want to cut money, skip this one. I also haven't seen anyone done it, so i don't know the rate of success for that one.
• Strap and Bracelet
Strap? Ok i can accept the rubber, but this watch was born with a bracelet, and i was kind of surprised with the quality of the rep one. Great bracelet, better than the planet ocean i think. One major issue are the end links. The links next to them need trimming, they stuck all the time. Besides that maybe one the best parts the watch came with.
I will be back with more info when i finish mine and answer all questions to the end.
Please check the above threads. There are a loooot more of info there and details about each specific watch and how it was build...
Seamaster Pro Comparison (Many Pictures)
Review of genuine OMEGA Seamaster "Bond" + general thoughts
Tribute to my favorite rep: OMEGA Seamaster Chronograph
Omega Seamaster Chrono 300 Review (Black Ver)
Pictorial comparison of the gen & rep Omega SMP Chrono
A great reference guide also to find the omega you are looking for!
Omega Seamaster Professional Reference Guide (Photos + models)
And last but not least, this is a link to the a7750 user guide. Read it please and save yourself from some troubles in the future
Enjoy and updates as usual will come from time time!
I think it's time to split the threads and spicy things up, i know some of you have some projects on they way, so i am sure this thread will get bigger in the coming weeks!
Let the game begin again...
Chapter 1: Sourcing the Parts According to their Serial Number
Again as before,with the planet ocean, the parts can be sourced from CousinsUk and Ofrei
• Ofrei
• CousinsUK (You have to register here to have access)
Here you can find the numbers of the parts:
R2D4's 2531.80.00 Seamaster Parts List Reference Guide
The chrono diver reference for cousins is included also (second page).
Again many thanks to R2D4 for all this useful info!
Chapter 2: The Proud Owners
Not that many seamaster frankens but a big variation, of watches and modifications, so i think you won't be disapointed!
Angkikee's Franken SMP Chrono
FiloViridae's Franken SMP
Francisco's Franken SMP
Idontknow's Franken Seamaster 300M chronometer quartz
mclarendude's Franken Seamaster 300M Chronometer
mclarendude's Franken SMP Franken SMP Chrono
Mr Pap's Franken SMP Chrono
Mr Pap's Franken Seamaster 300M Chronometer
Om3ga_guy's Franken SMP
Om3ga_guy's Franken SMP (2254.50.00)
Sunnydale's modded SMP Chrono
I know more are coming, stay tuned!
If i have missed anyone please do contact me as to add you.
Chapter 3: The Big Question: To Built or not to Built..?
In case you haven't read the planet ocean and you still wondering if you shoud build a franken seamaster professional, happy reading below
Is "Frankening" worth it...???
Would I buy a franken for $1000....
Why build a franken?
How do all you "UPO franken nuts" reconcile
And remember, if you still ask about making one, then its not for you
Chapter 4: Some Quick Tips About the Parts and Modifications
Well let's begin with the non chrono model.
Here’s a brief breakdown of the various genuine parts that will slip right into a rep case. Please note that there were never specific SMP “generations†or “classifications†like there were with the PO. Your best bet (if your looking to franken) is to find a case that already houses a 2824 or 2836 (many which have been know as “closed factory†cases in the past). 21j budget cases are dimensionally wrong and normally don’t accept gen parts properly, but I’ve seen it done for those who would like to try… ?
• Dial and Hands
The dial and hands are a straight swap as long as you’re working with some form of 2824 or 2836. Swiss or Asian clone, its all good. The dial can be installed no problem, but similar to the PO the gen dial is usually thicker than the rep part, so the dial feet will be too short. Consult a watch smith about how you can sand/flare the feet for better fitment. Everyone hates a loose dial… Hands are a straight swap, no hassle…
• Crown and Tube
The rep crown and tubes are never aesthetically accurate on the SMP, but the threads and quality are generally good. Any crown will strip if not operated properly, but with the rep SMP you wont run into the stripping problem like you do with the PO rep. Gen parts are relatively cheap through Ofrei or Cousins and the install is generally straightforward. You wont have to tap or shave your case like the rep PO. Again, it really depends on what kind of case you use as a platform for your franken project.
• Crystal
If you have installed a gen dial and gen hands you have to buy a gen Crystal, the difference is quite noticeable. The clarity is the first thing you notice, you won't stop looking at your watch. Again if you want to save some money you can just do an AR job to the existing one, it will still look much better than the stock part. Note: the gen SMP either came with single AR or no AR so when sourcing a new crystal or applying an AR coating to your current piece don’t apply a double coat. You don’t want the blue hue. Crystal should be totally clear and transparent.
• Bezel
You can buy the gen bezel, it's a little expensive but you will have the perfect colour and pearl. On the closed factory case, the bezel assembly is supposed to be a straight swap. On many other ETA cases the full assembly doesn’t always fit. Don’t worry! The insert dimensions are generally the same so you can remove the gen insert from the gen bezel ring and install it on the rep bezel ring. The finished product still looks 100% gen (some sanding of the insert may be required for optimal fitment). Click spring construction and quality varies by case. Many of the rep SMP’s have decent rotating/clicking action. If yours slips or is loose, one option is to try removing the bezel and tweaking the click spring wire configuration. I did it with my own franken and it now clicks like the gen! Another options is to attempt the floss mod. The floss mod only helps tighten the bezel, it won’t fix the consistency of the clicking…this is one area where the PO reps got it right ?
• HE Valve
Some say it’s an unnecessary modification, because the moneys a lot and the difference is minimal. The rep valve are pretty darn good… In the case that you do get one you will need to use epoxy there from the inside to waterproof it. Not a bad modification for sure…
• Datewheel
If your working with an ETA or Asian clone than the mod may not be necessary. If for some reason your datewheel is wrong, Ofrei and Cousins carries the ETA datewheel for about $10…a must if you’re swapping the dial out.
• Caseback
Who will see the caseback? No one... How much does it cost? A lot! If you want to make the difference then buy one. There is no anti counterfeit globe logo on the old SMP’s so don’t worry about it… just make sure the Sea horse is intact and that the correct “Seamaster†spelling is there. If you have to cut something from the budget, this would have to be one of the first items...
• Strap and Bracelet
The steel bracelet is damn expensive! If you want to buy one then get one. The rep bracelets generally suck and nothing beats the gen piece. The reps have terrible clasps, the branding is totally wrong and the end links are typically cheap one piece links as oppose to the gen which are made up of 9 pieces… You can usually find a decent used one on eBay or in the sales area. A reasonable alternative to the steel bracelet iif you want “gen†is the gen rubber strap. It’s a fraction of the gen steel price and it looks bad ass on the SMP. I did it with mine.
Many thanks to Omega_guy for all the above information! Thank you Kevin!!!
Let's see now some details about the chrono diver model:
• Dial and Hands
Well if you want to install a gen dial, most likely you will go with the old model. The new one is really expensive at the moment, if you manage to find one. If you like the new style, you can keep the rep one, it's very good and close to the real deal, as the hour and minute hads.
The small hands though are short. They are supposed to reach at the end of the subdials. If you want to fix that buy the gen ones, but be carefull, for the new model (case ref:178.0522) cause if you buy the old style ones they will still appear short.
• Crown and Tube
The rep crown is really close. It screws done very smooth. But if you want to install a gen one remember to buy the gen tube also cause gen crown won't fit rep tube.
• Chrono Pushers
Well if you are lucky enough to find a pair, prepare for pain. The gens are screw in while the rep ones are just pressed in. Yes, you will have to create threads in the case as to fit the gens!
• Crystal
One of the things i didn't like. Too blurry. As usual best choice is the gen crystal, next one is an ar treatment by our specialists.
• Bezel
Worst part in my opinion. Kind of loose, pearl is bad, as in all seamasters, color is different and font of numbers a little bit off too. Priority number one if you ask me.
• HE Valve
Damn close. If you are a maniac, like me, you can do the change, but its really good with correct position as well...
• Datewheel
Always a good and cheap update. The font is thicker and kind of makes the difference. Put it on your list if you are keeping the clone movement.
• Caseback
Again, who will see the case back? None... Quality is good, counterfeit globe is there as well, so again if you want to cut money, skip this one. I also haven't seen anyone done it, so i don't know the rate of success for that one.
• Strap and Bracelet
Strap? Ok i can accept the rubber, but this watch was born with a bracelet, and i was kind of surprised with the quality of the rep one. Great bracelet, better than the planet ocean i think. One major issue are the end links. The links next to them need trimming, they stuck all the time. Besides that maybe one the best parts the watch came with.
I will be back with more info when i finish mine and answer all questions to the end.
Please check the above threads. There are a loooot more of info there and details about each specific watch and how it was build...
Chapter 5: Some Reviews and Comparisons Worth Viewing
Seamaster Pro Comparison (Many Pictures)
Review of genuine OMEGA Seamaster "Bond" + general thoughts
Tribute to my favorite rep: OMEGA Seamaster Chronograph
Omega Seamaster Chrono 300 Review (Black Ver)
Pictorial comparison of the gen & rep Omega SMP Chrono
A great reference guide also to find the omega you are looking for!
Omega Seamaster Professional Reference Guide (Photos + models)
And last but not least, this is a link to the a7750 user guide. Read it please and save yourself from some troubles in the future
Enjoy and updates as usual will come from time time!
