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new aftermarket Datejust 16000 case

drvintage

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Hey guys,


A while ago, I got into 3D modeling, just as a new creative outlet. Eventually, I bought a 3D scanner and for fun, scanned my gen DJ36. Not long after, I ended up selling the watch since I was mainly wearing larger pieces at the time. But the scan stayed with me.

Back then, I owned several original DJ36 midcases and about 6-7 months ago, I built a few Franken watches, since I had gen midcases lying around. I unfortunately sold everything, still convinced that I preferred larger watches, at least 40mm. But somehow, I couldn't let go of the classic DJ36.

Some time later, I built a few Raffles Franken projects for friends and myself. But as many of you know, there's a difference between the 16000 and the 16200 – the elegant, flat lines versus the bulkier successor. While the gen 16200 is may be not bad, I just couldn't enjoy the Raffles build as much. I really missed the classic DJ36 on my wrist.

Since there wasn't a good alternative to Raffles, especially in a low price range, I decided to create my own case to meet my needs. That led me to produce a small series for me and anyone else who appreciates the timeless elegance of the classic Datejust.

I can't say enough how much I enjoy being part of RWI, and I'd love to support our forum and community with special discounts. Send me a PM to get the RWI discount on the parts.


Now, about the midcase set itself:

The quality, as well as the price, falls between Raffles and Viet. I'm not skilled at engraving yet, but I'd rather leave the parts unengraved than do it poorly.


Midcase:
In my opinion, the midcase turned out really well! The gen parts with 3135 fit perfectly, and the shape is very accurate since I had a 3D scan of an original. The holes are 1mm, it seems gen has 0,8mm..

3d model:


Scan of gen midcase:


Real part vs gen:



Caseback
I'm less proud of this one, as the producer made some changes. It looks okay, but it will be revised in the next version (if there is one).




Bezels:

I made both bezels as refined as possible to look as close to gen as I could. I think they turned out well, but I haven't compared them with a gen yet, so I'd love to hear your opinions and get your eagle-eyed feedback.





PS: I'm pretty nervous, so don't grill me too hard. :)
 

heska

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Thanks for your work ! It looks great, love the slim profile. And it’s very nice to have a higher end option over the raffles one.
 
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drvintage

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Hey guys, today I’ve received the first parts so the 3135 build can begin.

VS3135
Gen 16013 dial
Swiss hands
Beige date disc
Gen flat case back gasket
Gen Tube

Still waiting for the other parts, but I can already share some insights into the assembly process with this mid case.


Everything is falling into place perfect just as planned.

As per the original design, the movement is secured with the mounting screws, and there is a 0.1mm gap between the dial and the rehaut to avoid damaging the dial when turning the movement.


One note: the case is missing the cutout for the second screw, even though it was shown in my drawing. However, the movement can still be installed without any issues.


 
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RDRoss

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Damn impressive Sir. Looking forward to seeing more of these.
 
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Singapore9

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Absolutely brilliant project and fantastic work! I'm surprised we haven't seen more projects like this on the forum since 3D scanners became available to the hobbyist! Following this with interest!

9411 next please :D
 
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drvintage

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Have you tried a Gen bezel yet?
No, but if the gen plexi fits, gen bezel will do it too :)

WOW, this looks so good!
I already love the Raffles cases, can't wait to see the final case.
This is the final case - a few users ordered already, I think they will post their feedback soon
 
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Nur-Uhr

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As an absolute fan of the older Datejust models, like the 160xx series with Plexi, it was always hard to build an accurate one.
A Datejust 162xx build is not so hard to start with a Raffles case and Franken this, but to make a Plexi DJ ... thats another story.

To build a 16030 Plexi Datejust, I am now happy to have a Midcase + Caseback from @drvintage
IMHO - these parts are great benefit for all who wants those older DJ models.

What can I say, a made a short review with my 16014 and at the end = the midcase is "JUST WOW" I am absolute amazed.

At first I want to show some pics from ONLY midcase and caseback with some measurements for all interested members.
I will start with these parts now the 16030 build

Just for information ... I need now some time for part sourcing again ;)

Pics will follow the next post ;)