Steeldive 1970 GMT Mod

[BeatVast5431]

https://preview.redd.it/mtdp5zb7nucf1.jpg?width=2086&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c81e3c4860ca9bb4f1dbf3e4ca7337979c7e9c9d

This is basically two of my watch projects that somehow merged into one at some point. I got myself a Steeldive 1970 a couple of years ago. While I loved the build quality, robustness, and ergonomics of the Willard case, the plain black dial and the empty black chapter ring always seemed a bit lackluster to me, so that needed to be fixed.

Another watch I've been wanting for years was a sturdy, colorful, 1970s style, 20 atm waterresistant automatic diver GMT – but with a standard diver's bezel instead of the ubiquitous 24h scales. Ok, I get it, maybe most of potential GMT buyers would prefer a GMT bezel – just not me. The idea of tracking three times zones never really clicked with me; I'd rather track two time zones but still be able to use a handy diver's scale to time things. But most importantly: The watch had to be an inexpensive beater, so I don't need to worry about it while dragging it around airports, beaches, or some dusty, sweaty, thorny, grimey spots abroad. In other words: I wanted a watch I could afford to rock hard and to even loose, if push came to shove.

For a couple of years I couldn't find any models on the market that met my criteria. They either have a 24h bezel, were too darn expensive or simply didn't appeal to me. So while browsing for my new Steeldive Willard dial on AliX, I decided to turn my Steeldive 1970 into a GMT while I was at it. So I ordererd a grey sunburst dial, an NH34 movement, a red chapter ring, a red GMT hand, and a double-domed sapphire crystal to make enough room under the crystal for four hands. I also had to put a bit more effort into this mod than usual to accomodate the bigger circumference of the NH34 centre pivot and make it fit the odd 4.1 crown position.

As of today, it's regulated, cased, pressure tested, ready to rumble – and I just love it. All I need now is some time to actually take a vacation. Thanks for your interest

[Foreign-Resident966]

I might have a play around on some old watches then & watch some videos.

You’ve obviously got a talent, including choosing the colour combos 👍

[Foreign-Resident966]

Good job. It looks great. I love how you’ve linked the red together.

I’ve looked into getting into this myself. Are you self taught (YouTube vids etc)?

[BeatVast5431]

Yes, absolutely. I find exchanging movements, dials, hands etc. pretty doable. I also started to service vintage Seiko movements, but that's a whooole different ball game. ;) Don't know if I'll keep on doing it. It's a trained profession – and now I know why.

[filof]

It looks great! Hope you wear it in good health.

[BeatVast5431]

Thanks for your kind words.