The Vintage DateJust Thread

[GenuineFool]

Also, I purchased a Gen ETB from eBay. I tried to fit it over a Gen crystal and it seems fine.
I tried to put it on a Clark’s 25-135 acrylic and I don’t think it will fit.
Do you know if that’s the wrong acrylic crystal? I think the outside diameter of the crystal is 30.5 if I’m not mistaken
Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.

One of the best posts in this thread by @1016_idiot_savant

In addition, be aware there is a difference in the date position in 4-digit dials (use Rolex Cyclop 118 #25-118, Sternkreuz XS 306.133) and 5-digit dials (use Rolex Cyclop 135 #25-135, Sternkreuz XS 307.457). Also - the 5-digit bezel fits the Cyclop 135, so make sure you pair the dial, crystal, and bezel. With this being said, everything just fits together like Lego blocks...

It would seem your gen ETB might be from a 4-digit model if it doesn't fit a Clark's 25-135.

I am not sure of the outer diameter of the Clark's crystal, but the 25-135 replacements from Otto Frei (ofrei.com) are 30.7 mm.

 

[Rolexmike69]

One of the best posts in this thread by @1016_idiot_savant


It would seem your gen ETB might be from a 4-digit model if it doesn't fit a Clark's 25-135.

I am not sure of the outer diameter of the Clark's crystal, but the 25-135 replacements from Otto Frei (ofrei.com) are 30.7 mm.

The ETB I have is 30.5 mm ID
THE Clark’s acrylic is 30.65.
So do you think the ETB IS for a 4 digit DJ? Or did I order wrong Clark’s
Just for reference, it is the 25–135. Acrylic.

 

[GenuineFool]

The ETB I have is 30.5 mm ID
THE Clark’s acrylic is 30.65.
So do you think the ETB IS for a 4 digit DJ? Or did I order wrong Clark’s
Just for reference, it is the 25–135. Acrylic.

That should be the correct crystal. I can't say more than that, but hopefully someone here with several vintage DJ builds under their belt can chime in.

 

[Rolexmike69]

That should be the correct crystal. I can't say more than that, but hopefully someone here with several vintage DJ builds under their belt can chime in.

OK, so in your opinion, you think that Bezel should be correct for that acrylic crystal? I’m gonna try to press it on and see what happens… Worst case scenario is I crack it.

 

[GenuineFool]

OK, so in your opinion, you think that Bezel should be correct for that acrylic crystal? I’m gonna try to press it on and see what happens… Worst case scenario is I crack it.

It could be correct. I believe that acrylic crystals and bezels fit snugly because the outer diameter of the crystal is either the exact inner diameter of the bezel, or slightly larger to take advantage of flexibility of plastic. I have not measure many and am not certain, but a 0.15 mm difference seems reasonable to get a tight waterproof seal.

Personally, I would try although I would be prepared to buy another crystal. (I've cracked more than one without even measuring inner diameters and outer diameters.)

 

[Iksander]

OK, so in your opinion, you think that Bezel should be correct for that acrylic crystal? I’m gonna try to press it on and see what happens… Worst case scenario is I crack it.

Hope it fits, I’m gonna replace my crystal with a Clark too. Also have the ETB and both the plexi and sapphire version off Clark. Let me know if it fits

 

[Rolexmike69]

It could be correct. I believe that acrylic crystals and bezels fit snugly because the outer diameter of the crystal is either the exact inner diameter of the bezel, or slightly larger to take advantage of flexibility of plastic. I have not measure many and am not certain, but a 0.15 mm difference seems reasonable to get a tight waterproof seal.

Personally, I would try although I would be prepared to buy another crystal. (I've cracked more than one without even measuring inner diameters and outer diameters.)

I have two of those exact crystals just for that reason lol

 

[Rolexmike69]

Hope it fits, I’m gonna replace my crystal with a Clark too. Also have the ETB and both the plexi and sapphire version off Clark. Let me know if it fits

Will do… I know the ETB fits perfectly with the sapphire crystal… I would really just like to use a Clarks acrylic to see and get that look.

 

[Iksander]

Will do… I know the ETB fits perfectly with the sapphire crystal… I would really just like to use a Clarks acrylic to see and get that look.

I know what you mean. Acrylic is what it was back in the days

 

[edwardd]

hi ! where can i find a nice and not to expensive bracelet like the "plié" 7836 ? thanks

 

[Iksander]

hi ! where can i find a nice and not to expensive bracelet like the "plié" 7836 ? thanks

Mail her.

[email protected]

 

[Iksander]

Well the sapphire crystal fits like a glove and I like it! I’ll keep it like this.

 

[Iksander]

Does anyone knows if a gen datewheel will fit?

 

[Rolexmike69]

Does anyone knows if a gen datewheel will fit?

On 3135 clone? Mine did yes

 

[Pyter2]

Hello community,

After reading many great posts on Datejust builds, I’ve decided to dive into my first project using a 1601 case, a 2824-2 clone movement, an H4 cannon pinion kit, and a pie pan dial, among other parts.

I’m seeking advice on the best way to fit a genuine dial to the 2824-2 movement. I’ve seen some people cut the dial feet, while others rebuild new ones. I’ve also heard of people modifying the movement by drilling holes, but I’m unsure how common or recommended that approach is.

What would you say is the easiest method, ideally one that minimizes damage to the dial?

Any tips or suggestions for this build would be greatly appreciated, as I’m still fairly new to the modding world.

I’m sharing a few photos of the parts for reference as well.

Thanks in advance for your help!

 

[Pedruino]

Just finished mine!

 

[rmbsym]

I wonder if anyone can assist. To my eyes one of the biggest tells with the Raffles Datejust case is how shiny and sharp the bezel is - genuine 40 year old white gold bezels have inevitably gone a bit smooth and lost their definition over the years. One option is obviously a gen bezel, but I wonder has anyone aged their Raffles bezel to take some of the shine and sharpness off, and how did you do it? Many thanks

 

[Replicated]

Just went from crystal to plexi, and I love it!

 

[Rolexmike69]

Just went from crystal to plexi, and I love it!

Can I ask you a question?
Nice build!!!

What’s the size diameter of your bezel?
What size crystal did you get and where did you get it from?

I’m about to pop engine turned bezel on a Clarks acrylic crystal.
My outside diameter of the crystals is 30.6

The inside diameter of my ETB is 30.5

I wonder if I have to widen the inside diameter of the bezel a little bit before attempting to pop that on?

Any help would be appreciated.
Thank you

 

[goodpm]

I'm excited to join this crowd! Just placed orders for a RD case and dial from eBay. Still need to order a movement and hands, which I'd like some input on.

Do y'all order just any VS3135 off of AliExpress or are some better than others? I ask because the prices seem to be all over the place. ($30-$110)

Same goes for hands. I've gathered that Clarks and CousinsUK are good value for the cost, but are the hands you find on AliExpress noticeably worse? Is there a noticeable difference between any of these aftermarket options and gen hands?

Case, crystal, crown: Raffles 2824 (for 3135 movement)
Dial: firstclassdials on eBay
Hands: ???
Movement: 3135 clone (VS/VR?)

https://clickpix.org/image/hIQkfX