I have yet to attempt a keyless on a DG usually by that point I am so annoyed with it I just toss it in the parts and buy another.
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1655 Explorer II : Ugly duckling or King of cool ?
- Thread starter 369mafia
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I did miss it...looks awesome in the gold caseahhh but you missed an episode while you were out sick
I do have a railmaster already
It might be time to get that thing back together now, You have had those parts for ever!! lol
You are right, I've had the case and dial for years. I just do not relish the thought of starting another project. I also have 25 or more (maybe 50) genuine watches of assorted brands that need work to get them running so I can sell them. Once I get started, I am Ok, it's just getting started that is the problem.
Besides that, I've had the Phong '1655' case for 12 or 14 years iirc and have done nothing to it.
You are right, I've had the case and dial for years. I just do not relish the thought of starting another project. I also have 25 or more (maybe 50) genuine watches of assorted brands that need work to get them running so I can sell them. Once I get started, I am Ok, it's just getting started that is the problem.
Besides that, I've had the Phong '1655' case for 12 or 14 years iirc and have done nothing to it.
sounds like you got your work cut out for you. make hay while the sun shines....
Would anyone be able to compare the raffles 1675 case and the milk v2 or genuine case? It might even be even better suited to build this cool king 
Rolex - 1655 vs 1675: how to tell the Real Mc Coy from the Frankenwatch
Watchprosite- As my contribution to this hot subject, let me present you some pictures of a genuine Explorer 1655 next to a Franken GMT Master 1675 fitted with Explo
www.watchprosite.com
It has been done on this thread... Sorry
forum.replica-watch.info
NEW! 1675 GMT case set offering from Raffles.
Thank you very much for your kind words. I am quite satisfied myself, still needs a tiny bit of refinement but is almost there. Mid 60s early rounded crown guards with a flat top was exactly my goal. especially since none of the available options out there offer this specific variation...
forum.replica-watch.info
Eunomians
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I think one of the biggest issues is the 1655 mid-case shape and thickness versus 1675. Back in the late 80s/early 90s, I saw quite a few frankens with 1675 cases. My daily has been a 1675 since back then, so the thin 1675 case for me is instantly noticeable from a mile away. Anyhow, nobody should use a 1675 case in their 1655 build.
The next big issue is the BPH with using 28.8 movements. Again, I've stared at my 1675 for more than 30 years daily and low-beat BPH is nothing like 28.8 smooth sweep. Instant giveaway.
The next big issue is the BPH with using 28.8 movements. Again, I've stared at my 1675 for more than 30 years daily and low-beat BPH is nothing like 28.8 smooth sweep. Instant giveaway.
Eunomians
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Here is my build. It was a pain in the you know what to put together. Lotta Vietnam parts. One day I'd like to get the years matching the parts. As-is I guess it appears like a service brat. If anyone has any critiques to offer, by all means let a brother know!
What's your opinion of this raffles case, which is considerably thicker?
After modifying the CG of course
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Eunomians
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It's hard to say. Part of the issue with 1655 frankens that I didn't mention earlier is that the 1655 caseback is also different than the 1675 caseback. The 1655 caseback is more pronounced with a larger or rather, taller dome structure than the slimmer 1675 caseback. The 1655 definitely sits much higher on the wrist due to the taller caseback. The 1655 thickness, overall shape and more propounded curved lugs also add to height in the overall manner in which it sits on the wrist. 1675 is svelte, elegant and thin, 1655 is sorta brutish, sports watch-like and more rugged (kinda like how 5513/1680 appear on the wrist).
A couple of comparison pics... Both watches have NOS OEM Tropic 116 crystals, so note the crystal height for both references.
First is a pic of my 1655:
And here's a profile pic of my 1675/8 - you can clearly see that the case and caseback are noticeably thinner than my 1655.
"Pinched" in the crown guards, probably by only half a millimetre, may do a little more, but researching gen cases they all seem different, so may leave it for now as my hands are tired from sanding and polishing.
9th before, 13th after
9th before, 13th after
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noticeable improvement. nice work. No short cuts in metal work ."Pinched" in the crown guards, probably by only half a millimetre, may do a little more, but researching gen cases they all seem different, so may leave it for now as my hands are tired from sanding and polishing.
9th before, 13th after
there are a few difference from the early mk1 compared to the later mk5s
Next step would be to clearance the crown a bit on the inside edge of the crown guards. its alot more involved with removing the crown at min .
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I’m a little embarrassed about that. I bought my dial movement and hand off eBay over many months and paid way too much. Then I got in a hurry to finish it and went cheap on the bracelet from raffles. It’s been a while since I built it so I might look for the proper bracelet.
I think I know the seller you speak of. Yes a bit high priced but it looks good overall . the orange hand is the proper length. in relation to the dial the hands need some aging
The case lugs can use some shaping
The 1655 is one of the few vintage Rolex that I’ve never built or owned, but I need to build one soon. Great write up!
Eunomians
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Has anyone around here slapped on a Jubilee on their 1655? I have a correct OEM folded Oyster but it is flimsy and has stretched over the years considerably. I am liking the Jubilee look on the 1655
Dear Vintage watch afficionados,
I'm offering my latest build up for sale.
The "Steve McQueen" Explorer 1655,
A must-have for the true watch enthusiast, this rugged style icon can be worn in any occasion.
Crown guards are opened, sharp edges removed, case softened, deep cleaning done, movement is spotless and keeps excellent time.
Cost breakdown:
BP F base watch €250
Case reshape and deep clean €110
Relume and age (no coffee was used lol) €190
Jubilee Bracelet €50
Total €600
Selling for €590 plus shipping
FAQ:
Do you ship to CONUS?
-Yes a lot of my frequent clients are conus based and with ups and the correct paperwork there is no issues.
Pics:
Disclaimer:
1)These are replica/homage watches, custom built / modified to represent vintage existing genuine models in many ways.
Don't expect anything else.
2) The pictures represent the actual watch you are buying and will receive. If any extras are listed in the sales post they will be added.
3) International shipping expenses/customs duty are paid for by the buyer.
4) All buyers agree to assume shipping/customs risk, I do my absolute best to ship stealthy and tamperproof.
5) I prefer Paypal or bank transfer as payment.
6) No notes in in any payment !!
7) All transaction fees are on the buyer. Factor this into your consideration.
8) All sales are final, no exceptions
9) I am a hard working individual and I try to ship within 1-5 business days. 5 is exceptional.
10) I choose the buyer, and the buyer will wait untill green light from a sales moderator to post "sold" or "funds sent", for your own protection.
Eunomians
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