On 2824-based Modding - Part 3

So, I was quite happy with my build that I described in 2824-based Modding - Part 2.

After that I took things slowly. I wanted to start with a really nice dial. After a bit of searching I found a 32mm dial from a now defunct "Rheinmeister" project/microbrand. (I heard that this was also something that came out of a forum collaboration, but the details are a bit fuzzy.) Anyhow, I really liked the dial, and it made the way from Germany in pristine condition. Given the quality of the dial I'm inclined to believe that it is NOS from the initial project, and not a reproduction.

I found a handset on AliExpress that was at least close enough of a match for the original. Now, the only watch case that seemed to match on AliExpress was something close to a BB clone, which would accommodate a 32mm dial. My previous experience with the ST2130 was positive, so I order that movement again.

I had some slight doubts, since the dial was originally made for an ETA 2892 movement, which had the same dial feet positions as the 2824, but shorter dial feet lengths. Hey, I was willing to give it a try.

The case arrived an I was taken aback, at least a little. Even by AliExpress standards it was low effort for the price, and it relied on a cheap plastic brace. Now, there are decent plastic spacers, but this was not one of them.

The spacer partially slides under the rotor, which gave the creeps, as I had negative experiences with these kinds of spacers in the past. The bezel action of this case would makes my Invicta Pro Diver look high-quality. But stubborn as I am, I continued.

I was able to fit the dial, but the positioning of the movement in the spacer and the spacer against the case was quite awkward, as once in place the spacer cannot be turned. (NH35 builds are so much easier in this regard. )

The handset was fairly low quality, with the minute hand being slightly twisted. But I made that work, also. The ST2130 was just as solid as the last run, running around 3 spd fast with a healthy amplitude and minimal beat error.

So far I'm fairly happy, but I'm pretty sure I'll switch cases soon enough.

But, should I continue this route, I would probably upgrade the case first, and then work my way backwards. In summary it's quite a different approach from NH35 modding, where there is a plethora of components available, that are largely interchangeable. Now, it may be worth spending $300+ on case alone, but that would be a very, very deliberate build, and I don't think I will take that one very soon.