Mark, one thing I would like to mention as an owner of many divers. When changing the gasket, I highly suggest using a thin film of watch grease on the gasket before placing it back into the gate and resealing the watch. The grease creates less friction on the gasket as the case back presses against it therefore providing less warpage and a better seal. It is also a good idea to get into reversing screw down casebacks and watch crowns prior to tightening them. Unfortunately I've seen way too many newbies cross thread crowns and casebacks and depending on the watch, the entire case can be ruined but more often it’s just the crown or caseback as they tend to be made from softer materials. It would appear that the “Watch Gods” thought of such mistakes in advance. This procedure is especially important with non-stainless steel watches that use soft materials such as bronze and gold that damage easily. Thanks again for another insightful video.
Rob M Glad you made that point Rob ! I was thinking the exact same thing. In fact, I was about to order some watch grease, before watching this. A dry gasket will stretch and deform, even pulling out of it’s track.
I just thought I was weird for twisting the crowns of my watches in reverse before screwing them all the way down. I have plenty of tubes of silicone watch grease for when I take off a caseback to replace the gasket.
A few months ago, on an uncommonly hot and humid day in Ca., I experienced condensation when the temps plummeted after the sun went down. I put the watch in a tupperware of dry rice. Later, I checked and cleaned the case back and gasket. (Quartz chrystal, 4 screws) Nothing seemed to be amiss. This demonstration described and replicated the effects I experienced that day. Watched & Learned, thank you.
19:00 Are watches ever purged with dry, inert gas before sealing? I have a pair of quality binoculars, not insane high end though, which were purged and filled with dry, pure argon gas prior to sealing in order to prevent this exact fogging scenario.
lol, I never heard such a "i know better" narcissist comment in a while. Binoculars might need it because they magnify and a small amount of condesnsation could be a problem .When has a watch ever needed it. Also any "inert gases" will get contaminated the moment you pull out the crown to set the time. Watch isn't a sealed unit, case back needs to be popped for servicing/regulation. Above all else. IT DOESN'T NEED IT.
@@Professional_UA-cam_Commenter Not sure where you were getting the the impression that Ken thinks they "know better"; their question reads as pretty innocent to me, just inquiring about existing methods to manage sealed devices. And actually there are watches that are designed in a way that's a bit reminiscent of what they describe -- such as Sinn's "Hydro" which are filled with oil to improve underwater readability, increase pressure resistance, and yes: eliminate condensation.
Yes, Sinns were filled with Argon and used Viton seals to prevent gas exchange, later they switched to the dessicant capsule. Which makes sense since once the watch was serviced it's unlikely the servicing watchmaker would have argon on hand.
I'm just getting into watches. This series is the best. Direct explanations that are right to the point. I'm learning so much. Thanks for posting these videos.
What an amazing insight! Everytime I visit Hong Kong or Japan, it was troublesome to see my watch fog up. I thought it was a loose crystal or crown, but this video clearly explains why and how. Thank you for the insight!
Very interesting, and I had no idea about the inner condensation issue. The force created while swimming makes me think of the promo they showed for the new Apple Watch Series 2 when it looked like they had them mounted on a shaft spinning in water. This is a pretty good series of videos for anyone.
I remember, back in the days when Timex took a lickin' and kept on tickin', that John Cameron Swaize attached a Timex (sorry, don't know the reference) to an outboard motor's propeller, and let 'er rip. I don't think I'm remembering this wrong, but I'm old, so who knows? Anyway, it seems to me the watch band broke, but when they fished it out, naturally, it was still tickin'.
I'm watching all of your videos in sequence. Absolutely fascinating! You're a great teacher and I've learned SO much. Bought some tools and done all sorts of watch repairs/alterations that I'd previously have paid for. But the subject matter is so interesting that I can't stop watching. Downside...earache from spending money on classic wristwatches. Many thanks.Karl UK.
Hi Mark. I have a Seiko Samurai. The crown was locked in, but it was not screwed all the way. After going to the beach, I noticed that the crown popped after only +- a "turn and a half". Do you think water could have gone in? The crown gasket was in position, it was just not screwed all the way. Thanks in advance for you help.
If you were just swimming all should be ok . There is a certain amount of waterproofing without being screwed down. Always best to check first anytime you enter the water though.
Thanks Mark for doing this educational video, I've actually learned something. Note, divers do not use dive watches anymore. Divers use dive computers. Dive watches went out in the early 90's. With depth, an open water PADI diver can only dive to about 20 meters. An advanced open water PADI diver can only dive to 30 meters. You'll find that most people who use a dive watch are desk diver or dreamers who think they are James Bond. If you do own a dive watch ask yourself, when was the last time you went scuba diving? 10ATM is usually more than enough for most people who do water sports.
Great learning video! I had no idea about the temperature vs condensation factor. I felt like I was watching an old Mr. Wizard episode. I just bought a Seiko SKX013 from your store and am really digging it. Thanks.
Mark, could you please explain why, for watches that have internal bezels, the internal-bezel-crown usually is not screwed-down, while the (main) crown itself for obvious reasons is? Thanks.
Talk about "giving something back" - these quality videos are terrific. If I lived in the East USA instead of Scotland LIWatches would be my watch dealer for sure.
1. Can water resistance deteriorate after time? 2. Does it make any difference which water you dive in? (Fresh water, dirty lake, salty sea water, public swimming pool where they add chemicals to the water?
I had a Seiko like you were showing and after about 6 months it started leaking swimming. Luckily I was able to dry it out and replace the oring on the and was good to go after that. Great videos!
Excellent video, thanks a lo! I've been scuba-diving (not really deep... at around 12m or so) with a 50m Eurotime (Argentine brand) screew crown and it just keep resisting. I'm planning to keep going until the first thing happens... Water finally gets in or I need to replace the batteries... as I don't think I'll be requesting the change of seals. It has surprised me
Educational video thanks for the demonstration I learned a lot. Especially related to the gaskets. Question of curiosity, do the watch companies instruct repairmen to use a lubricant or silicone grease on the gaskets to help maintain the seal? Reason I’m asking is because I scuba dive and do underwater photography and we are meticulous about maintaining our seals and gaskets on our underwater cameras.
Just a quick question. I have a dive watch and took a hot shower for about 20 minutes. The watch was in a drawer which was cooler. So when I got out I decided to take it out of the drawer and place it on the sink counter. There was condensation on the crystal but not in the crystal. Is that ok? I am assuming yes and it did that because of the temp change. Also did not see any water inside the case. I just simply wiped the surface and it was gone.
I screw the back on under a stream of dry Nitrogen directed at the movement and the result is 0% humidity inside the case. Just did your 'ice test' on two that have N2 and no fog or condensation. None, not even a speck. An empty water test chamber can also be used to displace air with dry N2 by pulling the crown out. (p.s. nitrogen is *lighter* than air)
You could show us how it works helium valve to deepsea wach??? would be very interesting, nobody has done a demo with these watches with helium valve. Thank you.
Really great video. Having my skx779 and gshock take in water recently this educated me as to why that could be (old seal in the case of the gshock, botched service in the case of the skx). Also I did not know about the desiccant in the Sinn. Does that apply to all models? Don’t think I saw it in the 556i
I really found your video on condensation in watches very interesting and informative. One of the best I have seen. Needless to say, I am a subscriber to your channel. Regards, James
Hello mark. Thanks for your video. I recently changed the crystal on my Orient Ray II, and I'm concerned that the watch has lost its pressure. Is there a way i can test it at home without submerging it?
Big fan of you guys, just subbed and started collecting last year again...but I have a question...is it worth me attempting to open up my 90s Hamilton Ventura to clean out minor very minor layer of fog inside the crystal? or does it take more than just removing the stem to pop the dial out? I was also thinking of just opening the back and wrap a cloth around it and put it in a jar of rice sealed to get that moisture completely out of the case and hopefully crystal?
Hi Mark! I just got a SKX009J “Pepsi” I don’t really dive, only planing to swim maybe snorkel.. how often should I change the back and the screw down gaskets?
Hi Mark, kind of an unrelated question, but should I be concerned of a loose movement on my watch? When you pop the crown out you can see the dial moving, crown in and it's pretty stable.
My mom got her Gucci 3300l wet and it stopped, how would I diagnose how to fix it? Should I buy a board and new battery or a whole eta 978-002 movement.
Great video very thorough loved it but I do have a question.. What about the helium valve like the ones found in Tissot? How does it coop with water resistance?
What about watches that have liquid like oil sealed inside the case to diminish the underwater pressure ? I seem to recall seeing these watches somewhere.
Thank you for creating this excellent content. I have a question regarding the design of the case, gasket and caseback for compression seal cases. I have a Vostok Amphibian and from what I have read, it uses the increasing water pressure to achieve a stronger seal.
In actuality, any watch will achieve a stronger seal as the water pressure pushes harder on the caseback, further compressing the gasket and materials together. Just like putting the watch in a vise.
I have a question. Generally Seiko watches that have Diver's mark on the dial is an ISO standard watch, does Seiko do the ISO testing again when we service the watch?!
Shout-out from the Island! You think 🤔 these dive 🌊🤿 watch ⌚️ manufacturers would utilize Silicone gaskets instead of Rubber which dry-rots overtime. Silicon seems to be almost virtually indestructible regarding water 💦 impregnation, and heat ♨️ resistance.
I have a question, hope someone can help me answer it. If the screw down crown isn't screwed in all the way, can water enter the watch? I know you showed in the video that it is when the crown is pulled out it is, but what if it is in the winding position? I am especially interested in the Orient Kamsu, where the gasket is not attached to the crown.
Great vid, Marc! I'm new to dive watches, so plz forgive my nubile questions. In this vid. you took the time to remove the crown and adjustment spindle, and showed the spindle o-ring, but never showed the inside/bottom of the crown. Is there a gasket that, when the crown is screwed down, seals the crown against the top of the crown tube, when interfaced, adds to the water resistance on any of the divers you know about, or do they only rely on the internal crown tube seal for that water seal? Thanks.
Hi, I just serviced my Seiko as above that had a stuck setting crown. Works fine now. I still have humidity in the crystal. Can it be baked with the back off to rid the moister. TKS !!!
Hi Mark, love your watch videos. I have a question.. I own a Seiko skx013 and I see a tiny gap between the case back and the case itself enough to fit a tiny paper. Is that normal? Some info will help.
With the skx007 is it advisable to screw down crown (gently) for day to day use when you're not setting the date or time? Also is there any benefit from unscrewing the back and placing the watch and case back onto say a fine wire mesh held over the dry air outlet of a desiccant dehumidifier and after 15mins screwing the case back on to ensure it's moisture free? Would that increase the lifespan of components inside?
If you are having trouble with screw down crown threads try this: when you are ready to close the crown push gently against the spring and turn the crown backwards, ie counter clockwise. Turn until you feel a definite click. Now the thread is correctly started and you can turn the crown clockwise to tighten. That's it. Do this every time and you will never cross thread your crown. This works on screw down case backs also.
You said "... that moisture will condense out" are you saying it'll leave via the crown when it unscrewed and opened? Or that it'll condense into the screen or gears and cause problems?
Mark, I have a very old Pulsar, Water Resistant 10 Bar Movement, VX32-X249 on the rear of the watch. The difficult part I’m finding is the correct size of the gasket (30mm OD x 1.5mm thickness). I’ve seen 12-30 mm OD, but the thickness is 2mm or 4mm; also, 1.5 thickness and but various OD sizes, (no 3mm at all). Do you think a 28mm x 1.5mm thickness is okay to use? (Or not?).
I currently own and love a second generation Seiko Monster. Anyway, the rotor was quite noisy and somehow came loose and no longer automatically wound the watch. I was able to fix it, but at the expense of taking off the caseback. The watch has since survived cleaning my fish tank and other minor instances of water exposure. I'm taking a vacation in a few months and was wondering if you had any advice as whether to trust it for swimming or if I should buy another watch for that vacation
Question not related to WR... I've read/been told NOT to replace the stem without depressing the stem release. Are stems designed to be able to just push back in? Or did you do that because these are parts-watches only?
Great video Mark. I am learning a lot from you. In videos like these, you use watches that are no longer working. What about doing a video on how these watches broke. I bet we could learn a lot from a video like that. Thanks again!!
Very informative! Have you ever seen a Vostok amphibia, how it is sealed, very interesting i.m.o.h.o.? BTW there are the compressor kind of water resistant cases too, to be discussed.
I thought it turned pink. Well, dark blue is OK too! I tried the ice trick on both of my Sinns and indeed, they did fog (posted a pic on Instagram). But, I would say nowhere near the amount the Seiko fogged.
Great, very informative video. I believe what will help everyone in reference to water RESISTANCE is that there IS a difference between water RESISTANCE and water PROOF. Resistance has its condition limitations while something that is water PROOF is more of an absolute condition. Just a thought...
Here’s a tip I have figured out how to get condensation out of a watch. It works pretty well but it needs to be open like pull out the stem. Get a small Pringle can full of cat litter bury the watch in it put a pice of tape over the stem hole to keep debris out. But it will get it dry.
Hi Marc, great Chanel you got here. Very informative! What I would like to know, is how do automatic movements get adjusted in different positions? Don't you mess up one adjustment in , let's say crown up, by adjusting to crown down position? I have tried to find information on the web,but never found any! could you please make a video on that? Greetings from Germany Frank Schroth
Thank you. That's more geared towards watchmaking, BUT, remember when I showed the balance wheel with screws in it? That's one trick the watchmaker uses, as well as special bends in the hairspring, and adjustments to the regulator. Adjustment is an art. A monkey can regulate.
Hi Marc, thanks for the great info. Now I've learned something new again!Thanks, wow! And,great chanel,awesome videos. Keep 'em coming! Greetings from Germany Frank Schroth
Great explanation; I own the SKX009 myself and its fantastic to see how it is assembled (without have to ruin it myself!) :-) Fantastic videos Marc; thanks again!!!!!!
Great vid! What are your thoughts on the Vostok Amphibia? They're not as refined as a lot of other dive watches, but the two piece case back design is rather clever. It would be interesting to see exactly how well it stacks up against a traditional dive watch like the SKX.
This was the first thing that came to my mind as well. The back and the crystal both are supposed to get more waterproof at greater atmospheres of pressure, an ingenious bit of engineering on a relatively austere budget.
+Jim Rodriguez I thought the engineering behind the Amphibia was cool, so I bought one. They're cheap but interesting. Here's a primer For those that don't know a lot about them.. If I remember correctly at 200m, the crystal will compress .5-1mm which is cool. Replacement crystals are also dirt cheap. The crown is intentionally wobbly so that the stem won't break off in the movement. You can feel it grab when you start to wind it. The case back design really steals the show though. Big flat rubber seal sits in a groove, the indexed case back sits freely on top and can move up and down, then the outer ring screws down and presses the case back into the seal. Special rubber had to be developed so it rebounded properly after being compressed. Since there's no shearing action when you tighten the case back, you don't need to replace the seal after removing and replacing the case back. The case finishing is rough enough to file my fingernails but the watch as a whole is very neat.
I like the system Vostok uses, I bought mine a long time ago but after the USSR feel. I saw a test years ago wear the Vostok waterproofing failed before the Seiko. From memory the low quality metal used in the Vostok caused it to flex leading to the failure.
I would argue that Vostok Amphibia has the best screw down caseback system where the threaded outer ring pushes the stationary caseback straight down without rubbing against the gasket rubber when tightening. The gasket is also a fat wide thing, - more sealing surface. Vostoks have been reported to withstand the equivalent of 600-800 meters of pressure. That's how smart that solution is.
Marc, another great, informative video! The ice trick was neat, I liked it. On the watch with the screws, I take it you would cross hatch the screws to just some resistance at first, then cross hatch again to tight. That way you can get as even a seal and torque as possible. Could you please mention the ball again and where I might find one? Thanks.
Long Island Watch Marc, thanks for the reply. They are only 15 minutes away from me so I'm going to go down there and pick one up on my next day off. I really appreciate it so much!!!
So true Mark.. wearing the watch in the shower is not a good thing... only exception if you are traveling and don't want to risk forgetting to put it back on,... cheers ( ryan's uncle Reuben)
Very likely they test your watch as well. Testing to 100m isn't that difficult but if you have a watch that is tested to 200m or similar that gets expensive because most places cannot do it.
Thanks Mark. Very informative video Learned some useful things about my watches. Also just bought a couple of your islanders. I love them. Great watches.
I have wondered why watches after assembly and just before closing the backs are not purged with argon gas or nitrogen, etc as a general rule. There is one brand in germany I found that does this and has a screw in filter that wicks moisture that is replaced periodically but they are rather pricey
Mark, one thing I would like to mention as an owner of many divers. When changing the gasket, I highly suggest using a thin film of watch grease on the gasket before placing it back into the gate and resealing the watch. The grease creates less friction on the gasket as the case back presses against it therefore providing less warpage and a better seal. It is also a good idea to get into reversing screw down casebacks and watch crowns prior to tightening them. Unfortunately I've seen way too many newbies cross thread crowns and casebacks and depending on the watch, the entire case can be ruined but more often it’s just the crown or caseback as they tend to be made from softer materials. It would appear that the “Watch Gods” thought of such mistakes in advance. This procedure is especially important with non-stainless steel watches that use soft materials such as bronze and gold that damage easily. Thanks again for another insightful video.
Rob M Glad you made that point Rob ! I was thinking the exact same thing. In fact, I was about to order some watch grease, before watching this. A dry gasket will stretch and deform, even pulling out of it’s track.
@@randyporter3491 Hi Vacuum Grease Works Great In These Situations...
Thanks Alan, I wondered about that
Replay around the video 02:05. Great points though, thanks. 👍
I just thought I was weird for twisting the crowns of my watches in reverse before screwing them all the way down. I have plenty of tubes of silicone watch grease for when I take off a caseback to replace the gasket.
This is a pretty funny sentence, "Most watch companies will not cover damage due to water intrustion, *especially* dive watches."
Ha!
Agreed
How about those none Dive Watches ,I guess they just don't stand a chance.
I think my dog must be a secret watch repairer as he has loads of those ball things...
New watch enthusiast here, these are the best videos on UA-cam about watches HANDS DOWN
A few months ago, on an uncommonly hot and humid day in Ca., I experienced condensation when the temps plummeted after the sun went down. I put the watch in a tupperware of dry rice. Later, I checked and cleaned the case back and gasket. (Quartz chrystal, 4 screws) Nothing seemed to be amiss.
This demonstration described and replicated the effects I experienced that day. Watched & Learned, thank you.
Thanks for checking it out and sharing.
19:00 Are watches ever purged with dry, inert gas before sealing? I have a pair of quality binoculars, not insane high end though, which were purged and filled with dry, pure argon gas prior to sealing in order to prevent this exact fogging scenario.
lol, I never heard such a "i know better" narcissist comment in a while. Binoculars might need it because they magnify and a small amount of condesnsation could be a problem .When has a watch ever needed it. Also any "inert gases" will get contaminated the moment you pull out the crown to set the time. Watch isn't a sealed unit, case back needs to be popped for servicing/regulation.
Above all else. IT DOESN'T NEED IT.
@@Professional_UA-cam_Commenter Not sure where you were getting the the impression that Ken thinks they "know better"; their question reads as pretty innocent to me, just inquiring about existing methods to manage sealed devices. And actually there are watches that are designed in a way that's a bit reminiscent of what they describe -- such as Sinn's "Hydro" which are filled with oil to improve underwater readability, increase pressure resistance, and yes: eliminate condensation.
Yes, Sinns were filled with Argon and used Viton seals to prevent gas exchange, later they switched to the dessicant capsule. Which makes sense since once the watch was serviced it's unlikely the servicing watchmaker would have argon on hand.
I'm kinda obsessed with Watch and Learn.. Super informative
That's a good thing. Thank you for watching.
They are nice videos.
I'm just getting into watches. This series is the best. Direct explanations that are right to the point. I'm learning so much. Thanks for posting these videos.
Thank you for checking them out.
Love this series. As a beginner watch enthusiast these are so informative and entertaining! Keep it up!
Thank you!
I've learned more watching your channel in two days than months of watching reviews and just general watch videos. subbed.
Thank you for checking it out.
What an amazing insight! Everytime I visit Hong Kong or Japan, it was troublesome to see my watch fog up. I thought it was a loose crystal or crown, but this video clearly explains why and how. Thank you for the insight!
I love finding older Watch and Learns I've never seen!
Very interesting, and I had no idea about the inner condensation issue. The force created while swimming makes me think of the promo they showed for the new Apple Watch Series 2 when it looked like they had them mounted on a shaft spinning in water. This is a pretty good series of videos for anyone.
Thank you!
I remember, back in the days when Timex took a lickin' and kept on tickin', that John Cameron Swaize attached a Timex (sorry, don't know the reference) to an outboard motor's propeller, and let 'er rip. I don't think I'm remembering this wrong, but I'm old, so who knows? Anyway, it seems to me the watch band broke, but when they fished it out, naturally, it was still tickin'.
I'm watching all of your videos in sequence. Absolutely fascinating! You're a great teacher and I've learned SO much. Bought some tools and done all sorts of watch repairs/alterations that I'd previously have paid for. But the subject matter is so interesting that I can't stop watching. Downside...earache from spending money on classic wristwatches. Many thanks.Karl UK.
Hi Mark. I have a Seiko Samurai. The crown was locked in, but it was not screwed all the way. After going to the beach, I noticed that the crown popped after only +- a "turn and a half". Do you think water could have gone in? The crown gasket was in position, it was just not screwed all the way. Thanks in advance for you help.
If you were just swimming all should be ok . There is a certain amount of waterproofing without being screwed down. Always best to check first anytime you enter the water though.
Thanks Mark for doing this educational video, I've actually learned something. Note, divers do not use dive watches anymore. Divers use dive computers. Dive watches went out in the early 90's. With depth, an open water PADI diver can only dive to about 20 meters. An advanced open water PADI diver can only dive to 30 meters. You'll find that most people who use a dive watch are desk diver or dreamers who think they are James Bond. If you do own a dive watch ask yourself, when was the last time you went scuba diving? 10ATM is usually more than enough for most people who do water sports.
Absolutely!
Great learning video! I had no idea about the temperature vs condensation factor. I felt like I was watching an old Mr. Wizard episode. I just bought a Seiko SKX013 from your store and am really digging it. Thanks.
Thank you. Don Herbert! I grew up watching that guy.
Once again another great video, learning so much , keep up the great work Marc.👍
Thank you!
Mark, could you please explain why, for watches that have internal bezels, the internal-bezel-crown usually is not screwed-down, while the (main) crown itself for obvious reasons is? Thanks.
Raymond Malone yes, like the Seiko Alpinist!!?!!
Awesome demonstration, you have cured my watch fog phobia, thank you very very very much!!!!
loving this series
Great to hear!
Marc these videos are a great series. Very informational. Much appreciated.
Thank you for watching them.
You are a master in your field. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Hi Marc, thanks for the Watch and Learn. But a side question, did they stop mass producing the SKXs yet? Do you know?
I'd like to say I wish I knew. We are getting 007's and 009's in regular supply now, and they have 2016 serial numbers.
Thanks man. That is more informative than anything else I have heard on the forums. Cheers.
Update: got my skx007 a few weeks ago (2018) and im pretty sure it has a serialnumber from 2018.
Good info here. Didn’t know about the condensation piece. Interesting.
Talk about "giving something back" - these quality videos are terrific. If I lived in the East USA instead of Scotland LIWatches would be my watch dealer for sure.
1. Can water resistance deteriorate after time?
2. Does it make any difference which water you dive in? (Fresh water, dirty lake, salty sea water, public swimming pool where they add chemicals to the water?
Yes rubber gaskets/o-rings eventually perish and need to be replaced. Salt water makes rubber deteriorate faster than normal fresh water and time
I had a Seiko like you were showing and after about 6 months it started leaking swimming. Luckily I was able to dry it out and replace the oring on the and was good to go after that. Great videos!
Excellent video, thanks a lo! I've been scuba-diving (not really deep... at around 12m or so) with a 50m Eurotime (Argentine brand) screew crown and it just keep resisting. I'm planning to keep going until the first thing happens... Water finally gets in or I need to replace the batteries... as I don't think I'll be requesting the change of seals. It has surprised me
Educational video thanks for the demonstration I learned a lot. Especially related to the gaskets. Question of curiosity, do the watch companies instruct repairmen to use a lubricant or silicone grease on the gaskets to help maintain the seal? Reason I’m asking is because I scuba dive and do underwater photography and we are meticulous about maintaining our seals and gaskets on our underwater cameras.
Another home run Mark! Keep them coming!
thank you.
Another good one! Really looking forward to Part II !!!
thanks!
Just a quick question. I have a dive watch and took a hot shower for about 20 minutes. The watch was in a drawer which was cooler. So when I got out I decided to take it out of the drawer and place it on the sink counter. There was condensation on the crystal but not in the crystal. Is that ok? I am assuming yes and it did that because of the temp change. Also did not see any water inside the case. I just simply wiped the surface and it was gone.
Wow. I was hooked on to this lesson, subbed.
I screw the back on under a stream of dry Nitrogen directed at the movement and the result is 0% humidity inside the case.
Just did your 'ice test' on two that have N2 and no fog or condensation. None, not even a speck.
An empty water test chamber can also be used to displace air with dry N2 by pulling the crown out.
(p.s. nitrogen is *lighter* than air)
You could show us how it works helium valve to deepsea wach??? would be very interesting, nobody has done a demo with these watches with helium valve. Thank you.
Thank you, good idea!
Really great video. Having my skx779 and gshock take in water recently this educated me as to why that could be (old seal in the case of the gshock, botched service in the case of the skx). Also I did not know about the desiccant in the Sinn. Does that apply to all models? Don’t think I saw it in the 556i
I really found your video on condensation in watches very interesting and informative. One of the best I have seen. Needless to say, I am a subscriber to your channel.
Regards,
James
Is there a specification for the amount of slippage the cannon pinion should have and would there be a tool to measure it?
Hello mark. Thanks for your video. I recently changed the crystal on my Orient Ray II, and I'm concerned that the watch has lost its pressure. Is there a way i can test it at home without submerging it?
Big fan of you guys, just subbed and started collecting last year again...but I have a question...is it worth me attempting to open up my 90s Hamilton Ventura to clean out minor very minor layer of fog inside the crystal? or does it take more than just removing the stem to pop the dial out? I was also thinking of just opening the back and wrap a cloth around it and put it in a jar of rice sealed to get that moisture completely out of the case and hopefully crystal?
Hi Mark! I just got a SKX009J “Pepsi” I don’t really dive, only planing to swim maybe snorkel.. how often should I change the back and the screw down gaskets?
Hi Mark, kind of an unrelated question, but should I be concerned of a loose movement on my watch? When you pop the crown out you can see the dial moving, crown in and it's pretty stable.
My mom got her Gucci 3300l wet and it stopped, how would I diagnose how to fix it? Should I buy a board and new battery or a whole eta 978-002 movement.
Can I ask some think... How much tight should be the crown? Thenks you!
Great video very thorough loved it but I do have a question.. What about the helium valve like the ones found in Tissot? How does it coop with water resistance?
What about watches that have liquid like oil sealed inside the case to diminish the underwater pressure ?
I seem to recall seeing these watches somewhere.
So if i go dive with that watch with the descicant i can stop the sea levels from rising??
Your gloves don't you get micro fabric into the watch? 🇬🇧🤔
It does
And make me angry every time i see open case back for demonstration in non control environment!!!!!
And put back in with no lubrication 🤪🤪🤪🤪
Thank you for creating this excellent content. I have a question regarding the design of the case, gasket and caseback for compression seal cases. I have a Vostok Amphibian and from what I have read, it uses the increasing water pressure to achieve a stronger seal.
In actuality, any watch will achieve a stronger seal as the water pressure pushes harder on the caseback, further compressing the gasket and materials together. Just like putting the watch in a vise.
I have a question. Generally Seiko watches that have Diver's mark on the dial is an ISO standard watch, does Seiko do the ISO testing again when we service the watch?!
Shout-out from the Island! You think 🤔 these dive 🌊🤿 watch ⌚️ manufacturers would utilize Silicone gaskets instead of Rubber which dry-rots overtime. Silicon seems to be almost virtually indestructible regarding water 💦 impregnation, and heat ♨️ resistance.
I have a question, hope someone can help me answer it. If the screw down crown isn't screwed in all the way, can water enter the watch? I know you showed in the video that it is when the crown is pulled out it is, but what if it is in the winding position? I am especially interested in the Orient Kamsu, where the gasket is not attached to the crown.
Great video...what if you bring it in to have it tested for being waterproof and water comes into the watch? Who will pay for the damage?
Very informative video, thanks. How about the Bulova Marine Star for men. Can it go in the water without getting damage?
Mine was fine, after replacing the battery and regreasing the case's gasket.
Great vlog - really enjoyed this one. Loved the ice cube demo, especially!
Thanks!
Excellent information Marc.
Excellent and informative as ever Marc, thsnks for spending time explaining in an informal non engineering manner.....
Great vid, Marc! I'm new to dive watches, so plz forgive my nubile questions. In this vid. you took the time to remove the crown and adjustment spindle, and showed the spindle o-ring, but never showed the inside/bottom of the crown. Is there a gasket that, when the crown is screwed down, seals the crown against the top of the crown tube, when interfaced, adds to the water resistance on any of the divers you know about, or do they only rely on the internal crown tube seal for that water seal? Thanks.
I do not believe Seiko has a gasket at the top of the crown.
Hi,
I just serviced my Seiko as above that had a stuck setting crown. Works fine now. I still have humidity in the crystal. Can it be baked with the back off to rid the moister. TKS !!!
yes. That would be a good plan. But be careful with the baking. Its not a cookie! You only need 100°F or so. Nothing more.
Thanks ! I was going to use a heat lamp for a few minuets with the case back lying loose on the case and then secure the back.
yataeeh you can use silica gel packets to absorb moisture.
Thanks for the series, very informative!
BTW what model Sinn did you have in that video, nice piece I wouldn't mind getting one.
I was wondering what crystal mod that was in the thumbnail
Hi Mark, love your watch videos. I have a question.. I own a Seiko skx013 and I see a tiny gap between the case back and the case itself enough to fit a tiny paper. Is that normal? Some info will help.
Christopher ward c60 elite 1000 has a display case?
Is there a see through back option for the SKX013?
Great series. We really learn from you man. Keep them coming. :)
will do!
With the skx007 is it advisable to screw down crown (gently) for day to day use when you're not setting the date or time?
Also is there any benefit from unscrewing the back and placing the watch and case back onto say a fine wire mesh held over the dry air outlet of a desiccant dehumidifier and after 15mins screwing the case back on to ensure it's moisture free? Would that increase the lifespan of components inside?
If you are having trouble with screw down crown threads try this: when you are ready to close the crown push gently against the spring and turn the crown backwards, ie counter clockwise. Turn until you feel a definite click. Now the thread is correctly started and you can turn the crown clockwise to tighten. That's it. Do this every time and you will never cross thread your crown. This works on screw down case backs also.
Works on anything with a screw thread!
You said "... that moisture will condense out" are you saying it'll leave via the crown when it unscrewed and opened? Or that it'll condense into the screen or gears and cause problems?
Thanks didn't know about the fogging effect.interesting video.carl from England.
So glad to have found this channel! Keep it up!
another brilliant video, thanks for taking the time to upload them.
3:32 ) The inscription below: "Japan mov't" and the letter "t" is higher than the others) Quality is super!)
tnx marc for the info I`ve already bought a seiko divers unisex size last week
Thank you.
Mark, I have a very old Pulsar, Water Resistant 10 Bar Movement, VX32-X249 on the rear of the watch. The difficult part I’m finding is the correct size of the gasket (30mm OD x 1.5mm thickness). I’ve seen 12-30 mm OD, but the thickness is 2mm or 4mm; also, 1.5 thickness and but various OD sizes, (no 3mm at all). Do you think a 28mm x 1.5mm thickness is okay to use? (Or not?).
I currently own and love a second generation Seiko Monster. Anyway, the rotor was quite noisy and somehow came loose and no longer automatically wound the watch. I was able to fix it, but at the expense of taking off the caseback. The watch has since survived cleaning my fish tank and other minor instances of water exposure. I'm taking a vacation in a few months and was wondering if you had any advice as whether to trust it for swimming or if I should buy another watch for that vacation
You can have it tested by a watchmaker for cheap. I would do that.
Great to learn something new everyday :) Love my SKX007 even more now!
Hi Mark.
Could a cheap Chinese watch be regulated to keep a good time, as good as an expensive watch?
Great viewing and informative to boot. Thanks. Now to Pt.2.😊
Question not related to WR... I've read/been told NOT to replace the stem without depressing the stem release. Are stems designed to be able to just push back in? Or did you do that because these are parts-watches only?
*Not a watchmaker. Yes, you should depress the lever. Not totally necessary though.
Great video Mark. I am learning a lot from you. In videos like these, you use watches that are no longer working. What about doing a video on how these watches broke. I bet we could learn a lot from a video like that. Thanks again!!
LOL! Most of them are from customers that damaged them : )
Hi Sir, Could you share some light that how can you open the back cover by a stress ball?
I will do a video on it :)
It's pretty simple mate.
Very informative! Have you ever seen a Vostok amphibia, how it is sealed, very interesting i.m.o.h.o.? BTW there are the compressor kind of water resistant cases too, to be discussed.
Does Sea Gull Ocean Star has the fog if you put ice on the crystal?
Great video Mark, very informative. I believe the Sinn capsule turns dark blue as it absorbs moisture. At least that's what my 857UTC manual states.
I thought it turned pink. Well, dark blue is OK too! I tried the ice trick on both of my Sinns and indeed, they did fog (posted a pic on Instagram). But, I would say nowhere near the amount the Seiko fogged.
Great educational video. So much more to learn. Pls keep posting them.
Of course!
Great, very informative video. I believe what will help everyone in reference to water RESISTANCE is that there IS a difference between water RESISTANCE and water PROOF. Resistance has its condition limitations while something that is water PROOF is more of an absolute condition. Just a thought...
You are correct.
Here’s a tip I have figured out how to get condensation out of a watch. It works pretty well but it needs to be open like pull out the stem. Get a small Pringle can full of cat litter bury the watch in it put a pice of tape over the stem hole to keep debris out. But it will get it dry.
Hi Marc,
great Chanel you got here. Very informative! What I would like to know, is how do automatic movements get adjusted in different positions? Don't you mess up one adjustment in , let's say crown up, by adjusting to crown down position? I have tried to find information on the web,but never found any! could you please make a video on that?
Greetings from Germany
Frank Schroth
Thank you. That's more geared towards watchmaking, BUT, remember when I showed the balance wheel with screws in it? That's one trick the watchmaker uses, as well as special bends in the hairspring, and adjustments to the regulator. Adjustment is an art. A monkey can regulate.
Hi Marc,
thanks for the great info. Now I've learned something new again!Thanks, wow!
And,great chanel,awesome videos. Keep 'em coming!
Greetings from Germany
Frank Schroth
Thank you very much. Never seen the condensation on the inside before.
yup!
Great explanation; I own the SKX009 myself and its fantastic to see how it is assembled (without have to ruin it myself!) :-)
Fantastic videos Marc; thanks again!!!!!!
Thanks! I have plenty of ruined watches :)
Great vid!
What are your thoughts on the Vostok Amphibia? They're not as refined as a lot of other dive watches, but the two piece case back design is rather clever. It would be interesting to see exactly how well it stacks up against a traditional dive watch like the SKX.
This was the first thing that came to my mind as well. The back and the crystal both are supposed to get more waterproof at greater atmospheres of pressure, an ingenious bit of engineering on a relatively austere budget.
+Jim Rodriguez I thought the engineering behind the Amphibia was cool, so I bought one. They're cheap but interesting. Here's a primer For those that don't know a lot about them.. If I remember correctly at 200m, the crystal will compress .5-1mm which is cool. Replacement crystals are also dirt cheap. The crown is intentionally wobbly so that the stem won't break off in the movement. You can feel it grab when you start to wind it. The case back design really steals the show though. Big flat rubber seal sits in a groove, the indexed case back sits freely on top and can move up and down, then the outer ring screws down and presses the case back into the seal. Special rubber had to be developed so it rebounded properly after being compressed. Since there's no shearing action when you tighten the case back, you don't need to replace the seal after removing and replacing the case back.
The case finishing is rough enough to file my fingernails but the watch as a whole is very neat.
I like the system Vostok uses, I bought mine a long time ago but after the USSR feel.
I saw a test years ago wear the Vostok waterproofing failed before the Seiko.
From memory the low quality metal used in the Vostok caused it to flex leading to the failure.
I would argue that Vostok Amphibia has the best screw down caseback system where the threaded outer ring pushes the stationary caseback straight down without rubbing against the gasket rubber when tightening. The gasket is also a fat wide thing, - more sealing surface.
Vostoks have been reported to withstand the equivalent of 600-800 meters of pressure. That's how smart that solution is.
Marc, another great, informative video! The ice trick was neat, I liked it. On the watch with the screws, I take it you would cross hatch the screws to just some resistance at first, then cross hatch again to tight. That way you can get as even a seal and torque as possible. Could you please mention the ball again and where I might find one? Thanks.
Absolutely, like a car tire. Here's the ball: www.ofrei.com/page1226.html
Long Island Watch Marc, thanks for the reply. They are only 15 minutes away from me so I'm going to go down there and pick one up on my next day off. I really appreciate it so much!!!
So true Mark.. wearing the watch in the shower is not a good thing... only exception if you are traveling and don't want to risk forgetting to put it back on,... cheers ( ryan's uncle Reuben)
Why does my jewler charge me so much for waterproofing? I looks like all you do is pop in an o-ring
Very likely they test your watch as well. Testing to 100m isn't that difficult but if you have a watch that is tested to 200m or similar that gets expensive because most places cannot do it.
@@xex2kok so, Im guessing my watch saying "300m" is most likely BS?
@@Winner3ty no
I have been loving this series. Keep it up, cant wait for the next one.
Thanks Mark. Very informative video Learned some useful things about my watches. Also just bought a couple of your islanders. I love them. Great watches.
Any opinion of the Sea Urchin? Is it better or the same compared to the SK?
I find my SKX007 gets arm hair trapped under the case back. Do you think that will compromise the water resistance?
No, not at all. The hair isn't under the gasket.
I have wondered why watches after assembly and just before closing the backs are not purged with argon gas or nitrogen, etc as a general rule. There is one brand in germany I found that does this and has a screw in filter that wicks moisture that is replaced periodically but they are rather pricey
How did you get the gloves on a Gorilla?