How to Replace Your Seiko’s Dial and Hands

Seiko watches are well known for their quality, durability and repairability. But besides being dependable watches that last a long time, they also make for excellent platforms for modification, as they are designed to be easily disassembled and serviced. Coupled with their robust construction and parts availability, you can modify Seiko watches to your heart’s content.

If you’re a newcomer to watch mods, it’s best to consult a professional watchmaker for advice and guidance. However, you can modify any Seiko watch with the right tools and knowledge. Here is all you need to know about replacing your Seiko’s dial and hands.

1. Ensure that Your Parts are Compatible

To ensure that your dial and hands are compatible with your Seiko watch, identify your watch’s model number first. This can usually be found printed on the back of the case. Once you have the model number, you can look for compatible parts for your watch. 

You should also ensure that the dial and hands you have chosen have the same lug width as your watch, as this will determine how they fit onto the case. Finally, you should check your watch’s specifications to ensure that the hands and dial fit correctly and are compatible with your watch.

2. Prepare your Tools

Before replacing the dial and hands on your Seiko watch, it is crucial to make sure you have all the necessary tools. You will need a small screwdriver, a pair of tweezers, a case opener, and a soft cloth to protect the watch case. You will also need a case wrench if your watch has a screw-down crown. You will also need a case-back opener or watch case-back removal tool.

To complete your watch mods, you will need specialized tools such as a hand press, a dial protector, and a hand-remover tool. These tools are used to safely and securely remove, replace, and adjust parts of a watch.

3. Open the Case Back and Take Out the Movement

Start by carefully removing the case back from the watch. You can do this with a case-back opener or a watch case-back removal tool. Once the case back is removed, remove the movement (the part of the watch that tells time) from the case. 

Place the dial protector underneath the hands of the watch and be careful not to damage the numbers, logo, and other designs printed on the dial. The dial protector acts as a shield to ensure that the tools used to remove the hands don’t leave any scratches on the dial.

4. Remove the Old Hands and Dial and Replace Them with New Parts 

Take the hand removal tool and press it against the dial protector. Squeeze the sides of the tool to make the tip compress, and the teeth slip underneath the hour hand. This will help the hands detach from the post. Make sure to lift the hands straight up when ready to come off without any side-to-side movement. Secure the old parts in a parts dish or other container.

Remove the old hands and dial from the movement. Insert the new hands and dial, aligning the hands with the correct hour and minute markers. If the dial feet don’t coincide with the holes, gently remove them with a flathead screwdriver.

It’s crucial to remember that watch hands are made of extremely thin metal, so handle them carefully and take your time when attaching them to the movement to avoid damaging them.

5. Reassemble the Watch 

Secure the case back onto the watch with the small flathead screwdriver. You have successfully replaced the dial and hands of your Seiko watch.

Conclusion 

Installing watch mods on your Seiko watch is a great way to personalize your timepiece and make it unique. With the wide variety of options available for modification, you can easily find a combination that suits your tastes and your budget. Whether you’re looking for a classic style, a modern look, or something unique, modifying your Seiko watch is the perfect way to express your style and show off your personality.

If you’re looking to customize your Seiko watch, visit SeikoMods for the highest quality watch mod parts and the best customer service. With our wide selection of parts and accessories, you can easily create a unique look that expresses your style and personality. We are committed to providing you with the best parts and services so you can get the most out of your Seiko watch. Shop now and start creating the perfect watch for you.