I Built My Dream Titanium Watch On AliExpress

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  • Опубліковано 29 січ 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 113

  • @WatchmakerErik
    @WatchmakerErik 5 місяців тому +60

    I finished watching the video and I really liked your build. I would like to make a couple of pointers however.
    First is that reading glasses are not generally adequate for watchmaking, so I would suggest getting an optivisor or similar product, or a cheap set of eye loupes.
    The second is setting the hour hand... On a no date movement there is no need to align the hour hand with anything. Not taking the time to align the hour hand saves you a lot of frustration and a little bit of time and I highly recommend just plopping the hour hand wherever. You can wind the hour hand to 12 before putting the minute hand on, which will take some slack out of the motion works and make the hand alignment a little bit more accurate in the bargain.
    Also regarding the size of hand pushing tools, when seating the hour hand select a tool with a hole that fits around the minute pinion but not around the hour pinion. This allows the hour hand pinion to work as a stop, and you will get a perfect hour hand seating every time not too low not too high. No need to go by feel. Select a pusher with a hole just big enough for the seconds pinion to seat the minute hand. I also recommend once you've got the alignment of the hands good to pick up the movement and look at the hands from the side, after you push each one on, so you can adjust its vertical spacing as well. I hope these tips help! Wouldn't believe how long it took me to figure out the thing about the size of the holes of the hand pushers. 😅
    The type b pilots watch that you built is really cool and I think I'm going to build one of those at some point too. Also glad to see you use the nh38, I'm glad I'm not the only person who hates ghost date crown positions.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому +4

      Appreciate the pointers!
      I know, I know. I need to get some loupes. I have terrible short range vision too 😂 luckily, just assembling a watch doesn't require too many tiny parts.
      Regarding the hour hand, I have a genuine question... How do you remove the crown when you have the hands on the watch? Is it the special movement holder that does it or is there a trick?
      I thought as much with the hand pressers. It's just impossible to know which one is actually made for which. They all look so similar 😂
      Ghost date is a huge pet peeve of mine. I wouldn't be able to look myself in the mirror if I made a watch with one 😂
      Appreciate you taking the time to share your experience and knowledge 🙏

    • @WatchmakerErik
      @WatchmakerErik 5 місяців тому +7

      @@TopTierTicker Glad to help!
      I always have a crown and stem in when setting hands, to adjust zero positions and check function and clearance. Removing the crown before casing up is tricky…. I hold the movement by the outer dial rim and have a cotted finger beneath the stem release button for support, using two fingers that are on the dial rim to pull the stem as I press the release. Winding the hands clear of that side of course.
      As for the hand pushers, try fitting them with no hands. The smallest one that clears the minute hand pinion but stops on the hour pinion is correct for the hour hand. Once you get it right, LABEL IT 😁 Marker or colored tape or a dab of paint will do.
      Thanks for replying and for the great content. Ask me anything if you need help.

  • @_all_around_us
    @_all_around_us 5 місяців тому +40

    Hey, I think it would be pretty cool to build a watch using a Seiko VH31 Quartz mov (seeing as it has the sweep). Idk I would love to see that mov. used more often.

    • @garylangford6755
      @garylangford6755 5 місяців тому +4

      There are no dials or hands for those

    • @_all_around_us
      @_all_around_us 5 місяців тому

      @@garylangford6755 how come?

    • @_all_around_us
      @_all_around_us 5 місяців тому +1

      @garylangford6755 how come

    • @keqrou
      @keqrou 4 місяці тому

      ​@@_all_around_usnot common enough. No demand= no supply

    • @Unlucky1776
      @Unlucky1776 3 місяці тому

      ​@@garylangford6755really?

  • @WatchmakerErik
    @WatchmakerErik 5 місяців тому +11

    Probably aren't going to believe me, Kieron, but I clicked on your video while wearing a titanium military watch that I built less than an hour ago. The parts came today and I couldn't help myself. I'm a professional watchmaker and I'm doing watch mods/custom builds as part of my business. 😁. I think I'm using the same titanium 200m case that you are, but I went with a black wrist candy watch club NATO strap, an nh38 because my dial is a no date and I hate ghost date positions, and I'm using a field watch dial and hands inspired by the classic American a11 military watches.
    This one is either going up for sale or it's going to be a gift for my father-in-law for his birthday.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому +4

      You're kidding? What a coincidence that is 🤣
      That would make an excellent gift by the way! I'm going to gift the Pepsi diver to my grandad once it's made (hopefully it turns out good). I'm definitely keeping this titanium build for myself. I love how it turned out 💪

  • @rizalpambudi
    @rizalpambudi 5 місяців тому +2

    This is the first channel that i encounter that has watch builds, so I looking up to more of that!

  • @seanhughes9577
    @seanhughes9577 5 місяців тому +2

    Brilliant and timely video. I just ordered all my components from Ali Express this morning! I am a little unsure if the bezel and case back gaskets come with the case though. I’m going for a dive style GMT watch and have got a personalised dial logo coming. It did cost a lot for this but I know I will have a unique watch dial when the watch is together and working. I haven’t bought any tools just yet because I really didn’t know what to get - but this video helps. I admit to being a little nervous as it’s my first build it myself, and maybe I shouldn’t have gone for the expensive personalised logo for the first attempt. I’m also a little unsure if all the parts will fit. I’ll be in contact for advice if that’s ok??? Cheers - Sean

  • @tomhill4003
    @tomhill4003 Місяць тому

    Thank you! Very nice and basic build.

  • @ArgentinaManit
    @ArgentinaManit 5 місяців тому +1

    Elegant watch, awesome dial 😊

  • @TechFreakMB
    @TechFreakMB 28 днів тому

    This watch build much more precise and detailed

  • @Dave-H
    @Dave-H 3 місяці тому

    Great design, really like the matched dial, hands and strap.

  • @erichjess
    @erichjess 5 місяців тому

    Indeed a tasteful combination of parts that make up the watch. The finished product looks really sick. Kudos 👍

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому

      Much appreciated! Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment 🙏

  • @thetattedpharmacist3215
    @thetattedpharmacist3215 5 місяців тому

    One tip for hand setting. I always put the stem in so I can hack the movement. I find it easier to get good alignment, and also find that without the movement running, it’s easier to seat the seconds hand in the pinion.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому

      Appreciate the tip. Do you then use a special movement holder to remove the crown without damaging the hands?

  • @sweetcorn1968
    @sweetcorn1968 5 місяців тому

    Your videos always get a like as a minimum. I'm loving this series of watch builds and will be taking the plunge soon. I would have done sooner but saw a watch very similar at a ridiculously low price.

  • @rikdriscoll2160
    @rikdriscoll2160 5 місяців тому

    Absolutely fantastic Kieron! Seriously mate, you've done a great job.
    Nice choice of style, parts and the strap is spot on!
    I'm definitely going to have a go at my own build, you've inspired me!
    Looking forward to seeing your next build, thank you my friend 👍

  • @GlynDwr-d4h
    @GlynDwr-d4h 2 місяці тому

    That's a great looking watch. Ok, now I'm inspired to give this a try.

  • @johnvaldez852
    @johnvaldez852 2 місяці тому

    Great build! I have always wanted a great field watch I think, this convinced me to just build one. Thanks for the video.

  • @josefwitt9772
    @josefwitt9772 Місяць тому

    Great stuff! I've been curious about building a watch for a while and this would be a great way to start. Good choice on the Flieger B type dial. I have a Laco Paderborn and absolutely love it.

  • @johnkem2630
    @johnkem2630 5 місяців тому +1

    Titanium is great for a watch case. I like the Fleiger dial. 36 mm is also a good size for a daily wear. Nice build Kieron.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому +1

      Thanks 👍 super happy with this one. I can see it being a bit of a beater for me. appreciate you watching 🙏

  • @borislebeau524
    @borislebeau524 5 місяців тому

    You made exactly the watch that I’m looking after !

  • @Bob-il3tp
    @Bob-il3tp Місяць тому

    Aw man i can feel another Hobby coming

  • @deedahinkent
    @deedahinkent 5 місяців тому

    Well done sir 👍 I'm loving these watch builds , must say I think you have got the style and colour spot on 🎯

  • @MichaelMitchell-vk9lk
    @MichaelMitchell-vk9lk 5 місяців тому

    Really cool build,well done.Thanks for sharing

  • @John-P
    @John-P 5 місяців тому

    Just seen a good tip for placing the second hand.....use a hand pusher tool without the end hole, put a very small piece of rodico on the end, pick up the second hand at the fixing pin and lower into place...might be worth a try.

  • @Edyth_Hedd
    @Edyth_Hedd 5 місяців тому

    Nice work, Kieran! I really like your choices!

  • @makermark67
    @makermark67 5 місяців тому

    That's an awesome build! Congrats on getting better and great taste on the design. This one looks like it's from a major brand. Well done!! Now I gotta build one myself!!!

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому +1

      Thank you! I'm delighted with how this one has turned out! I highly recommend you try your own, it's exceptionally fun!

    • @makermark67
      @makermark67 5 місяців тому

      @@TopTierTicker you'll have to start a separate collection for watches you've built so you don't disturb your 'top 8' 😁

  • @besaina77
    @besaina77 3 місяці тому

    I love this video so much I want to build one myself! But in 39mm. Do you have a parts list for that size?

  • @maxinahunt8652
    @maxinahunt8652 5 місяців тому

    Wicked video! How inspiring! Lovely watch too.

  • @t1n670
    @t1n670 5 місяців тому

    I've been wondering if a titanium build would be viable and you dropped this vid, perfect timing and great vid as always!

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому

      It is indeed. And for under $100 too! Great value all things considered

  • @UGA.D
    @UGA.D 5 місяців тому

    Excellent job! I'm wearing a Titanium Maratac Field Watch as I watched.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому

      Nice! I had to search that watch as I wasn't familiar. Enjoy!

  • @HackTheWrist
    @HackTheWrist 5 місяців тому

    Well done mate, it looks great.
    Been thinking to do myself one as a beater watch.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому +1

      I'll be treating mine as a bit of a beater! The case is actually supposed to have 200m of water resistance too! So it will definitely make a great beater 💪

  • @D3ZG1978
    @D3ZG1978 5 місяців тому

    REALLY nice watch you’ve put together there buddy, might make the same for myself!

  • @carlosmagalhaes1976
    @carlosmagalhaes1976 4 місяці тому

    Woooow! Better than a Hamilton!

  • @mannye
    @mannye 3 місяці тому

    LOVE this. This is a great video for the aspiring hobby watchmaker! I would love to know if there is a way to add a "brand" to a dial. I want to make a watch for my wife and put her name on the dial. I have read they are silk screened, but that's impractical for a one-off. What about ordering a rubber stamp? I dunno... just throwing ideas. I can't believe that will all the blank dials out there, there isn't a way to put a personal mark on one without having to order 5000 of them.

    • @Crushanator1
      @Crushanator1 2 місяці тому

      I bet you could do a heat emboss. Either get a stamp or use a fountain pen to get her name on the face. Then you gently sprinkle a colored thermoplastic, turn it sideways and tap off the excess that didn't stick to the ink. Then use a heat gun to melt the plastic powder into what'll look like a single printed piece. It'll have some gloss and a little bit of raised height.
      There's a ton of tutorials, and you don't really need that much in terms of additional costs or tools.

  • @KillingTimeWithNorman
    @KillingTimeWithNorman 5 місяців тому

    That build is SOOO cool! I never thought of sourcing parts on Aliexpress. I'm totally gonna have to see if I could build a 36mm Bauhausy dress watch :)

  • @rentresna440
    @rentresna440 4 місяці тому

    Wow, good job bro, that nice build

  • @thomasevans5367
    @thomasevans5367 5 місяців тому

    Would love to try something similar - but what about the accuracy?

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому +2

      It's a lucky dip, mine is currently running at +2. But they will all be different (within Seiko's stated tolerances). But you can regulate yourself during the build process. (I'll try and show this in my next build).

    • @Crushanator1
      @Crushanator1 2 місяці тому

      ​@@TopTierTickerweirdly my Ali Express white custom Seiko I wear in the summer is much more accurate than my factory black one. It's like +1s instead of +10

  • @Lucky.123
    @Lucky.123 5 місяців тому +2

    Could you please make a list of watches with exhibition case back for someone to buy as their first Automatic watch.

    • @Crushanator1
      @Crushanator1 2 місяці тому

      Virtually all of them. Essentially every case for a Seiko movement I've seen comes with them

  • @kombotmarine1304
    @kombotmarine1304 Місяць тому

    On the last video I added everything on the lost to my aliexpress cart to buy next saturday after I get paid will probably build this watch as well I select each part for the list on your video in case you get anything for me doing that then I search for same parts but to my own personal style this is exciting and my own Christmas present to myself love the videos

  • @Spurs24601
    @Spurs24601 4 місяці тому

    This was so much fun. Unfortunately for me, 36mm is too small for my fat wrists, but I'd love to wear it. Well done, Mate.

  • @johanvandersandt8904
    @johanvandersandt8904 5 місяців тому

    This looks super classy Kieran! Now you are semi pro haha! This one went much smoother! Well done man!

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому +1

      Haha thanks bud. Definitely much smoother. You should've seen my face when the seconds hand started ticking! 😁😁😁😁 Brilliant feeling... Relief 😂
      Hope all is well mate!

    • @johanvandersandt8904
      @johanvandersandt8904 5 місяців тому

      @@TopTierTicker Its all good in the hood man! I bet! Doing stuff for yourself is a great feeling! We are nearly 40% to your next one haha!

  • @John-P
    @John-P 5 місяців тому

    Nice job Keiron, I'm just about to start my second build also a military style (guess I'm hooked now) not to keen on nato straps so I found a army green with brown leather strap on ebay should look pretty good, can't wait for number three

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому +1

      Glad you're enjoying it as much as me! I'm very tempted to look into some custom parts too. A custom dial would elevate things massively!

  • @HPwns
    @HPwns 2 місяці тому

    Damn, that watch looks pretty good bruh - great job!

  • @AndreasKrause-x6b
    @AndreasKrause-x6b 3 місяці тому

    Nice Watch, but does golden Hands fit to a field Watch?

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  3 місяці тому

      I don't see why not? I'm not the first one to do it 🤣

  • @danielressell6893
    @danielressell6893 5 місяців тому +2

    Whats the problem with a ghost date position? Im a complete newbie so idk much

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому +2

      Nothing inherently wrong with it, it's just unnecessary.
      A ghost date means you have an extra click with the crown that doesn't do anything. It's just sloppy and annoying to some collectors. I for one don't like them!

    • @radoslavkasparec9345
      @radoslavkasparec9345 5 місяців тому

      I don't think there is any issue with that. It's maybe about the feeling of not utilizing the movement for it's full potential. But I wouldn't care at all. Every Aliexpress watch with no date window and NH35 movement (the most used movement so far) has a ghost date position.

  • @christianvalues777
    @christianvalues777 5 місяців тому +1

    Now we want to see you build a rolex from ali express parts ahah

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому +1

      I believe that one's already been done! I'm also not that interested in Rolex lookalikes! My Pepsi diver build is going to be super unique! 👌

  • @VJ-pedia
    @VJ-pedia 2 місяці тому

    Very rarely you see mother of pearl dial watches for men in 42 mm etc.
    I personally love the blue mother of pearl dial watch by Swarovski (only available for women).
    Swarovski Passage Moon Phase Blue Dial
    Something like this for men with that blue and mirror finish stainless steel combination would be awesome.

  • @АлескандрЯстержембский

    Cool! Guys, where to order a custom basel for g-shock 2100? Ty

  • @acegear
    @acegear 2 місяці тому

    hope you release the divers watch soon

  • @360MadMex
    @360MadMex 5 місяців тому

    Awesome. Hmmm can you Reverso or Tank style watch

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому +1

      That would be amazing. I'm unsure as to whether it's possible though! I'll have a look into it. Thanks for the suggestion 🙏

    • @360MadMex
      @360MadMex 5 місяців тому

      @@TopTierTicker I'm glad I can help with your videos. Now with your DIY projects , I will be purchasing the gear next week. Stay Awesome Triple T

  • @DieTabbi
    @DieTabbi Місяць тому

    Possible to build a 20bar waterproof watch?

  • @bagsjr1
    @bagsjr1 4 місяці тому

    Where can you get non-sterile dials?

  • @leonardgoffe7159
    @leonardgoffe7159 23 дні тому

    It would be great to build a “tank” style watch

  • @mikel6755
    @mikel6755 3 місяці тому +1

    A Captain Willard inspired watch would be nice to do. However I would say make it with a GMT NH34A Movement. I'm actually shopping around for parts myself on namoKiMODS for the case.

  • @ElderPinto254
    @ElderPinto254 4 місяці тому

    i see a new watchmaker in the works we need more watchmakers lol

  • @Isaac-jp2qe
    @Isaac-jp2qe 3 місяці тому

    Can you please make a video on finding the parts on ali express. Having trouble finding the right pieces that fit what i want.

  • @Furyy-gn7bl
    @Furyy-gn7bl 4 місяці тому

    Hello mate, nice video, i have some questions. How long do items take to arrive ? Haven't you had any problems with the sellers ? I've been wanting to build a watch for a long time

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  4 місяці тому +1

      I'm yet to have a single issue with an item from AliExpress. It of course happens don't get me wrong, but it's a rarity. At least in my experience.
      Items only tskr about 10 days to arrive
      Good luck with your build bud

    • @Furyy-gn7bl
      @Furyy-gn7bl 4 місяці тому

      @@TopTierTicker thanks mate

  • @tetocaloscojones8229
    @tetocaloscojones8229 2 місяці тому

    can you do a rolex explorer (36mm) with date window ? or a seiko alpinist ?

  • @monteverdiwatches
    @monteverdiwatches Місяць тому

    Just built a very similar one with red tip seconds hand.

  • @sultansamhan4928
    @sultansamhan4928 3 місяці тому

    is it waterproof?

  • @gugaporta26
    @gugaporta26 19 днів тому

    What’s the size of the strap?

  • @asennad
    @asennad Місяць тому

    Oh hell no! I don't need another hobby. And I don't even wear the Rolex I own. But so tempting. Looks like great fun. Might have to start building these for friends and family as gifts.

  • @joewhite6875
    @joewhite6875 5 місяців тому +1

    Oh shoot, now I have another rabbit hole to get lost in. Thanks a ton, mate!

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому +1

      This one's worth it, I promise. It brings you a ton of fulfilment (at least it has for me!)
      Thanks for watching! Hope all is good mt friend

  • @markblackhurst6925
    @markblackhurst6925 5 місяців тому

    Loved this..

  • @sweetcorn1968
    @sweetcorn1968 5 місяців тому

    C'mon everybody. Let's make him work for it.

  • @ahha6304
    @ahha6304 5 місяців тому

    so now I'm gonna hit a like so I can see you assemble more watches
    Kieron's watch avengers assembled

  • @WatchWiseUS
    @WatchWiseUS 5 місяців тому

    When there's no date complication, you don't need to line anything up.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  5 місяців тому

      You still need to align the hour and minutes!

  • @Discoworx
    @Discoworx 5 місяців тому +3

    I followed the video and added to my Alix cart things i didn't have like plastic tweezers, the cushion etc. Defo need the right tools for these jobs.
    Nice build. I think this is a good way to start before attempting a service. You can accomplish something in a short period of time. You can also get used to just how fiddly these things can be before committing to pulling something apart.
    Now, where to find a solar perpetual date movement mmmmm...

  • @EmilianoGuevara
    @EmilianoGuevara 5 місяців тому

    Was that a fake Loctite thread locker???? I would not use it... Nice build in any case!

  • @xianreiss
    @xianreiss 4 місяці тому

    Ok I just brought you to 980. Come on 20 more

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  4 місяці тому

      I best get my camera ready! Might be this weekend by the looks of it 📸

  • @kevseliga1364
    @kevseliga1364 5 місяців тому

    The only bad thing about feild watches 8s no date and or quartz as they are tougher

  • @HrveyDnt
    @HrveyDnt Місяць тому

    not that im adamant on holding them to it, but how do we know its titanium

  • @urbanus3546
    @urbanus3546 5 місяців тому +1

    Dial to busy. It looks like this watch can not make up it's mind about being a field or a pilot/navigator watch and golden hands make it looks cheap. But then again, beauty is in the eyes of a beholder.