ashleytee, Author at Ashley Tee

Vario Versa: A Budget-Friendly Alternative to JLC Reverso

Why the Vario Versa Stands Out for Watch Enthusiasts

As a watch enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by luxury timepieces like the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, but their price tags often feel out of reach.

For those of us with budget constraints, finding an affordable alternative that captures the essence of a high-end watch is a thrill.

Enter the Vario Versa, a $400 reversible watch from Singapore-based microbrand Vario that quenched my thirst for a Reverso-inspired timepiece. In this review, I’ll dive into why this watch is a compelling option for watch lovers seeking style, functionality, and value.

Unboxing the Vario Versa: Practical and Thoughtful Packaging

The watch arrives with a practical donut case, an extra strap, and a vibrant green batik pouch—perfect for travel. Unlike bulky watch boxes, this packaging is functional and aligns with the brand’s no-nonsense approach.

Vario Versa Packaging

My first impression? The 39mm case length and 26mm width make it a perfect fit for my 150mm wrist, though its 12mm thickness (plus a protruding case) gives it a bolder presence.

The protruding case gives it a bolder presence with its 12mm thickness.

The Reversible Magic: How the Vario Versa Works

The standout feature of the Vario Versa is its reversible design, housing two ultra-slim Ronda SlimTec 1062 quartz movements. These movements, with a six-year battery life, allow for dual time zone functionality—a practical feature for travelers or those who love versatility. The inner case is secured with a central screw and four pins, ensuring a smooth flip between the two dials.

Check out the action here in my video:

This reversible watch houses two ultra-slim Ronda SlimTec 1062 quartz movements thus, thus allowing for dual time zone functionality.

The two-tone sector dial is a classy highlight, exuding sophistication reminiscent of luxury watches. However, the plain green dial feels underwhelmed by comparison. A textured or patterned green dial could elevate this side’s appeal. Unlike the Reverso or Cartier Tank, the Vario Versa lacks a fixed back, so flipping requires a quick wipe to clear smudges—a minor quirk that doesn’t detract from its charm.

Vario Versa_Ashley Tee — *The Vario Versa’s two-tone sector dial exudes timeless elegance*.

Vario Varsa — *The plain green dial offers a simpler, yet understated contrast.*

Comfort and Style: The Vario Versa Strap Experience

Vario’s founders, Ivan and Judy, started as strap makers, and their expertise shines in the Versa’s green leather strap. Soft and comfortable from day one, it pairs beautifully with the deployant clasp, making it ideal for smaller wrists like mine. The strap’s quality rivals that of higher-end brands, adding significant value to this affordable watch.

Vario Versa styled with its included extra strap for added versatility.

Is the Vario Versa a True Alternative to Luxury Watches?

While the Vario Versa doesn’t have the heritage or mechanical intricacy of a Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, it captures the reversible watch’s spirit at a fraction of the cost. Its unique case design stands out, avoiding being a mere copy of its luxury counterparts. The dual movements, comfortable strap, and thoughtful sizing make it a practical and stylish choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts.

Vario Versa Wristshot — **US$ 428** Vario’s Versa

JLC Reverso Wristshot — **US$ 13,300** JLC’s Reverso Classic Duoface Small Seconds

The Microbrand Advantage: Human Connection with Vario

One unexpected perk of exploring microbrands like Vario is the personal connection. Unlike mainstream brands, Vario’s founders are accessible, fostering a sense of community. This human touch, combined with limited production runs, makes the Versa feel like a unique piece on your wrist.

My experience with Vario’s founder, Ivan, was refreshingly genuine—he encouraged an honest review, which I appreciated.

Should You Buy the Vario Versa?

If you’re a watch enthusiast dreaming of a reversible timepiece like the Reverso or Cartier Tank but constrained by budget, the Vario Versa is a fantastic alternative. Available in various colors, with additional models from Vario’s lineup, it offers versatility and value. While the green dial could use more flair, the watch’s overall design, comfort, and dual time zone functionality make it a worthy contender.

Interested in this? Check out Vario’s website for more details and color options.

Final Thoughts on the Vario Versa

The Vario Versa has shifted my perspective on microbrands, proving that affordable watches can deliver style, innovation, and connection. It’s not a Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, but it doesn’t need to be. For $400, it’s a unique, functional, and charming timepiece that satisfies my watch obsession— at least for now. What do you think of the Vario Versa? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Interested in another budget alternative to Cartier Tank? Check out Casio LTP V007 review here.

Vario Versa: A Budget-Friendly Alternative to JLC Reverso Read More »

Casio G-Shock GMA-S2100 Mini CasiOak Review

G-Shock Legacy & Mini CasiOak Overview

Since 1983, G-Shock has redefined durability with watches like Kikuo Ibe’s DW-5000C, built to survive a 10-meter drop. Known for ruggedness and affordability, G-Shocks suit everyone—military personnel, celebrities, firefighters, athletes, and everyday folks.

*First ever G-Shock: Casio DW5000c*
*Source: Casio UK*

Introduced in 2019, the GA-2100 series became a bestseller with its octagonal bezel and bold hour markers, earning the nickname CasiOak for its resemblance to the luxury Audemars Piguet Royal Oak.

3 CasiOak GA-2100 — *Released in 2019, the GA-2100 series became Casio’s BESTSELLER*

The GMA-S2100, a compact version, caters to smaller wrists, making it a hit for women seeking a tough, non-Baby-G option. Its unisex design—available in white, black, and steel variants—also appeals to men.

GMA-S2100 a.k.a Mini CasiOak — *GMA-S2100 = compact version of the more famous GA-2100*

Key Takeaways:

G-Shock: Durable, affordable, and iconic since 1983
Mini CasiOak: Compact, unisex, perfect for smaller wrists

Design & Specs of the GMA-S2100

The unboxing of the GMA-S2100 is thrilling! Housed in a classic G-Shock tin, my white model felt lightweight at 41 grams, thanks to the Carbon Core Guard Structure. With a 46.2mm lug-to-lug, 42.9mm case, and 11.2mm thickness, it fits my 150mm wrist perfectly—finally, a G-Shock that’s snug and comfy!

Casio G-Shock GMA-S2100 Wristshot — *Casio G-Shock GMA-S2100 on my 150mm wrist*

The ana-digi display blends analog hands (hours, minutes) with a digital screen (seconds, date, etc.), ideal for traditional watch lovers dipping into G-Shock. The octagonal bezel, a nod to the Royal Oak, steals the show. Metallic hour indices add a striking 3D effect, elevating it from the GA-2100’s subtler design.

Closed up shot of GMA-S2100 — *I love the ana-digi display which blends analog hands (hours, minutes) with a digital screen (seconds, date, etc.)*

Available in black, salmon, pink, and white, I chose white for a fresh, unisex vibe—my husband could borrow it too! Resin models are affordable and durable, while partly steel options like the GMS2100B-8A suit men’s wrists.

Specs at a Glance:

Weight: 41 grams
Dimensions: 46.2mm lug-to-lug, 42.9mm case, 11.2mm thick
Display: Analog-digital hybrid
Materials: Resin strap and case, some steel variants

Key Features & How to Set the Mini CasiOak

Let’s unpack the features and setup:

Mode Button: Press to cycle through local time, world time, stopwatch, timer, and alarm.
Adjust Button: Press to view city time; hold 2 seconds to enter setting mode.
World Time: Covers 48 cities across 31 zones—scroll with upper/lower right buttons.
Setting Mode: Tweak time, date, year, or toggle Daylight Saving Time (DST) and Hand Shift (HND).
Hand Shift: Press mode and light buttons together; hands move to clear the digital screen.
Bottom Right Button: Toggles date and time on the display.
Light Button: Activates Double LED for analog and digital visibility (1 or 3 seconds).

Additional perks include 200-meter water resistance, a 3-year battery, stopwatch, and alarms. The lume glows briefly but fades fast, so the LED is a lifesaver. The digital screen’s small size may require squinting—YouTube tutorials help master the buttons!

Here is my video for ease of learning:

Feature Highlights:

200m water resistance
3-year battery life
Double LED illumination

Wearing GMA-S2100 — *Sported the watch during my Bali trip. Yes I’m eating one of my favourite instant noodles 🙂*

Wearing Experience: Style Meets Practicality

As a new mom, I’ve grown to love the Mini CasiOak. Its ana-digi display blends my analog preference with quartz convenience—no winding or frequent adjustments needed. At 41 grams, it’s my daily go-to, surviving baby handling and scratches flawlessly—a true beater watch.

The octagonal bezel adds bold style, while the fit outshines chunkier G-Shocks like the DW5600. Its affordability tempts me to collect more variants, revealing why G-Shock fans are so passionate!

Why I Love It:

Lightweight and comfy for small wrists
Durable for busy, rugged days
Stylish and practical

Pros, Cons, and Value

Pros

Affordable: Around $100, some variants as low as $80
Stylish Design: Octagonal bezel and ana-digi display
Unisex: Suits men and women, especially smaller wrists
Variety: Resin, partly steel, and full steel options

Cons

Setup: Buttons tricky at first—watch tutorials : https://youtu.be/DQJyjvTuqok

Value Verdict

For under $100, the Mini CasiOak delivers durability, style, and features. It’s a fantastic addition to any collection, perfect for casual wear over suits. A steal for watch lovers!

Final Thoughts on the Casio G-Shock GMA-S2100

The Mini CasiOak is a unisex standout—tough, stylish, and budget-friendly. It’s ideal for smaller wrists and a fun, practical pick for daily wear.

Grab it via my affiliate links below. Prices start around $80 (at the time of writing this) —check for discounts.

CHECK IT OUT ON AMAZON

GET IT FROM AMAZON

Read another Casio watch review here and explore my watch-inspired merch at ashleytee.com/store.

What’s your favorite everyday watch? Would you rock this one? Comment below!

Casio G-Shock GMA-S2100 Mini CasiOak Review Read More »

Seiko Prospex Monster SRPH75 Watch Review: A Dive into Style and Substance

Introduction to the Seiko Prospex Monster SRPH75

Today, we’re diving into another Seiko gem (no pun intended). We’re exploring the Seiko Prospex Monster SRPH75, a standout in Seiko’s iconic dive watch lineup. Known for its bold, aggressive design and marine conservation ties, this “big boy” is a special edition under the Save the Ocean initiative. In this review, we’ll cover the Monster’s heritage, design, wearability, and whether it’s worth its $525 price tag. Let’s jump in!

The Heritage of Seiko Monster Watches

The Seiko Monster earned its name from its fierce, monster-like aesthetic, featuring sharp, teeth-like hour markers and a bezel that looks like it’s been bitten into. Seiko’s dive watches often have playful nicknames—like the Turtle for its shell-shaped case or the Tuna for its shrouded design—and the Monster is no exception.

Here’s a quick rundown of the Monster’s evolution:

First Generation (SKX779/SKX781): Powered by the 7S26 caliber.
Second Generation (SRP307/309/311/313): Introduced the 4R36 movement with a day-date window.
Third Generation (SBDC025/023/067): Featured the 6R15 movement and a price hike to around $525.
Fourth Generation (SRPH75): Returns to the 4R36 movement with a cyclops bubble over the day-date window, a polarizing design choice for fans.

This latest Monster combines rugged charm with a meaningful cause, making it a favorite for dive watch enthusiasts.

Seiko Prospex Monster SRPH75: Design and Specifications

The SRPH75 is part of Seiko’s Save the Ocean lineup, supporting marine conservation through partnerships like PADI’s Marine Debris Program. Its penguin-themed dial is a visual stunner, with a deep blue gradient that mimics the ocean’s depths and cute penguins swimming across it. Here are the key specs:

Case Size: 42.4 mm diameter, 13.2 mm thick, 47.9–48 mm lug-to-lug.
Bezel: 120-click unidirectional stainless steel bezel, 4.6 mm thick, with a satisfying clicky feel.
Lug Width: 20 mm, with drilled lugs for easy strap changes.
Crown: Unsigned screw-down crown at 4 o’clock for symmetry.
Case Back: Closed screw-down with the Prospex logo, “Special Edition,” and Seiko’s iconic wave engraving.
Crystal: Hardlex, more scratch-resistant than mineral but below sapphire.
Movement: 4R36 automatic with a 41-hour power reserve.
Dial: Gradient blue with penguin motifs and thick Lumibrite-coated hour markers and hands for exceptional glow.
Bracelet: Mixed polished and brushed stainless steel, sturdy and solid.

The serrated case sides and grooved bezel enhance grip, while the bracelet feels substantial, complementing the watch’s bold vibe. The star of the show? That gorgeous sunburst dial—perfect for ocean lovers and anyone who adores unique textures.

Wearability of the Seiko Monster SRPH75

At 42.4 mm, the SRPH75 is no shrinking violet. Its 13.2 mm thickness and weight make it feel top-heavy, especially on smaller wrists like my 150 mm one. The short, downward-angling lugs help, but this watch shines on wrists over 170 mm. A friend with a 180 mm wrist found it a perfect fit, while anything smaller than 41 mm felt too dainty for him.

The fourth-generation Monster is often called the most wearable yet, thanks to its conservative lug-to-lug measurement. Still, if your wrist is on the smaller side, take my feedback with a pinch of salt—this one’s bold and chunky!

Is the Seiko Monster SRPH75 Worth the Price?

Retailing at $525, the SRPH75 can be found for around $400 at retailers like JomaShop or 2004 MYR on Lazada for Malaysian buyers. Price is subjective, but let’s break it down:

Why It’s Worth It

Unique Design: The penguin dial and Save the Ocean tie-in make it a standout.
Bold Aesthetic: Perfect for fans of aggressive, monster-like charm.
Lumibrite Glow: One of the best lume applications out there.
Marine Conservation: Supports a meaningful cause.
Versatile Appeal: Ideal for dive watch collectors and ocean enthusiasts.

Alternatives Under $500

Seiko SRPDS: A more conservative dive watch for ~$200.
Seiko Komasu (Orange): Budget-friendly at under $200.
Tissot Seastar: Swiss-made, 300m water resistance, under $500.
Microbrands: Many offer sapphire crystals and great specs at this price.

While there are plenty of options, the SRPH75’s unique dial, robust build, and Save the Ocean connection make it a compelling choice for Monster fans.

Where to Buy the Seiko Monster SRPH75

Interested in the SRPH75 or other dive watches? Check out my top 20 picks on JomaShop with affiliate links and promo codes for discounts. For Malaysian buyers, Lazada and Shopee links are also available. Support the channel by using these links—it helps keep the reviews coming!

BUY HERE FROM AMAZON

GET IT HERE FROM JOMASHOP

Final Thoughts on the Seiko Monster SRPH75

The Seiko Prospex Monster SRPH75 is a bold, charismatic dive watch with a heart for the oceans. Its penguin-themed dial, rugged design, and stellar lume make it a must-have for Seiko fans, dive watch collectors, and anyone who loves a watch with personality. While its size and $525 price tag may not suit everyone, it’s a fantastic pick for those with larger wrists and a passion for unique, meaningful timepieces.

Seiko Prospex Monster SRPH75 Watch Review: A Dive into Style and Substance Read More »

Seiko SNXS79 Crystal Repair: My DIY Journey

Why This Watch Matters

This isn’t just any watch. It’s my first dress watch and holds sentimental value from my wedding day. When the crystal cracked, I felt lost—until your amazing suggestions poured in. Shoutout to Escapement & Watch Video, I gained the confidence to tackle this repair myself.

The Repair Challenge

Fixing this wasn’t straightforward. Unlike typical crystal replacements, the SNXS79 has a crystal sitting atop a gasket, secured by a bezel. That means prying it open carefully—not popping it from inside after removing the movement (like a typical watch). Plus, I couldn’t use a generic crystal; I needed one designed for this Seiko model, which meant higher costs due to currency differences and shipping (I’ll share the amount I paid in the video). I ordered two crystals to avoid disaster and gathered my tools. I got my sapphire crystals from monsterwatches.

Step-by-Step Process

Here’s a quick rundown of how I did it—watch the video for the full play-by-play!

Remove the Bracelet: Start by taking off the spring bars—easy enough with the spring remover tool like this one here:

removing bracelet from seiko snxs79 — *easier to fix the watch with the bracelets removed*

2. Pry the Bezel: Use a yellow tool (after testing a few) to gently open the bezel. I highly advise taping it to avoid scratches (especially if you’re a beginner). This yellow tool works the best for me.

3. Remove the Old Crystal: The bezel popped off, revealing the damaged crystal. Carefully remove the crystal and put aside.

4. Clean the dial: With those cracked pieces of the old Hardlex that came off, some might still sit on the gorgeous dial. Use a peg wood with a Rodico on it to pick up any of those crystals on the dial.

Rodico is a sticky, plasticine-like material used primarily in watchmaking for cleaning, holding, and placing small parts.
Add a squeeze of compressed air for extra caution.

cleaning seiko snxs79 dial with rodico — *cleaning seiko snxs79 dial with Rodico*

5. Install the New Crystal: Initially picked a flat crystal with anti-reflective coating, but last-minute curiosity led me to try a double-dome. I loved it! It somehow made this $100 watch even more expensive.

Note: Remember to install the gasket first before putting the new crystal & bezel on.

6. Secure with Case Presser: Used a cheap case presser (surprisingly effective!) to lock it in place. A satisfying “click” confirmed it was done.

Seiko SNXS79 Domed Sapphire Crystal — *Seiko SNXS79 with double-domed sapphire crystal*

The Result

I can’t believe it—I fixed it! The double-dome crystal adds an expensive vibe, and the movement still works perfectly. This win boosted my confidence for future repairs. The video turned out shorter than expected because I didn’t expect it to be this easy.

As you expected, this has been one of my favorite watches, find out why here

Seiko SNXS79 Crystal Repair: My DIY Journey Read More »

From Motherhood to Watchmaking: My Unexpected Journey

Motherhood and My Watch Habits

The past year has been a whirlwind. Motherhood is exhausting, but it’s also the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. I never pictured myself as a “kid person” before, but now? Every smile from my baby melts me. It’s changed how I see everything—even watches.

For a while, watches took a backseat. Those early months of breastfeeding meant they were more of a hassle than a joy, and I worried about my baby’s comfort with anything bulky on my wrist. Instead, I leaned on my Huawei fitness band—small, light, and perfect for tracking sleep and steps or finding my phone. Occasionally, I’d wear my Casio LTP V-007 (see review here) or G-Shock. Their durability & affordability handled my baby’s curious grabs. Big steel watches? Not anymore—they were a hassle, plus they triggered anxiety while breastfeeding!

Huawei Fitness Band — *small, light, simple – Huawei fitness band 8*

What’s wild is how my watches on my wrist feels different now. Comfort and practicality rule, and my love for mechanical watches has shifted. I used to adore winding them, but now I crave simplicity—no fuss, no winding, no time setup. My watch journey has evolved, just like I have.

Rethinking Watch Content

This shift got me thinking about my content. Watch reviewing feels different compared to tech, where new gadgets drop constantly. Watches thrill us with subtle updates—smaller sizes or new dial colors. I toyed with reacting to trends I missed, but I’m over-chasing hype. I want to enjoy watches for what they are.

Don’t worry—I’m not ditching reviews! I’ve bought some pieces, and reviews are coming in a few weeks. But I’m also drawn to something deeper: understanding how watches work.

Exploring Watchmaking

My curiosity led me to watchmaking and repair. There’s magic in those tiny gears and springs—a miniature world inside each timepiece. It’s more rewarding than just collecting. I’m no expert (just a busy mom!), but I’ve tinkered—assembling a watch with Namoki Mods and fixing a cracked crystal. Those moments felt like a new connection to my passion.

So, I’ve signed up for online watch repair courses to see where it takes me.

ashley tee watch making — *trying on watchmaking/watch repair will be daunting but exciting!*

What’s Next for AshleyTee

This blog and channel will continue to deliver watch reviews—affordable, carefully picked ones. But I’ll be filming my watchmaking journey, even if it means fumbling with screws.

As you may see, I recently restarted my blog again (making it an active blog this time), and there’s new merch too—mugs and hoodies inspired by clean designs and my space fascination.

Ashley Tee Merch — *Some of my merch, if you want to support – Check them out at ashleytee.com/store!*

Let’s Connect

That’s my story so far—balancing mom life, watches, and learning new skill. What do you think? Any watchmaking tips for a beginner? Drop your thoughts below or on Instagram (@ashley_watches). See you soon!

From Motherhood to Watchmaking: My Unexpected Journey Read More »

DIY Watch Making: Build Your Own Watch with Namoki Mods

Why Choose Namoki Mods’ Sakura Dress Watch Kit?

Namoki Mods offers a wide range of watch parts, from cases to bezels, but their DIY watch-making kits truly stand out. Among their selection, the Sakura Dress Watch kit caught my eye, and it wasn’t just because of its beginner-friendly design.

The real star is the Sakura dial—a stunning, original design that doesn’t mimic or pay homage to other watch brands.

NMK-WK06 DIY Watchmaking Kit: Sakura Dress Watch — *Its intricate, black textured pattern evokes a sense of elegance and individuality, making it a standout choice for anyone who wants a watch that’s uniquely their own.*

Unlike many modding kits that lean into familiar aesthetics inspired by luxury or mainstream watches, the Sakura dial feels fresh and authentic. I was drawn to its bold yet refined look, which feels like a statement piece without trying too hard. Plus, the kit’s all-inclusive nature and customization options sealed the deal.

Here’s why this kit is perfect for beginners:

All-Inclusive: Includes tools, parts, and instructions—no extra purchases needed.
Beginner-Friendly: Pre-cut stems and clear guides make assembly less intimidating.
Customizable: Add your personal touch with optional parts like rotors or straps.

Disclaimer: Namoki Mods provided this kit for free for this collaboration. I received no other compensation, and all opinions are my own.

Unboxing the Sakura Dress Watch Kit

The kit arrived promptly with solid packaging and everything needed to build a watch:

Watch parts (case, dial, hands, movement, crown, strap, etc.)
Tool kit (tweezers, hand pushers, case back opener, etc.)
Warranty and instruction pamphlet

NMK-WK06 DIY Watchmaking Kit: Sakura Dress Watch Toolkit — *Included: Tool kit (tweezers, hand pushers, case back opener, etc.)*

One note: the included movement holder felt a bit flimsy for a beginner like me. I used my own, but I recommend grabbing a sturdier one from Namoki Mods if you don’t have one. Get one from Namoki Mods here.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building the Sakura Dress Watch

Here’s how I assembled the watch, with tips for first-timers:

Step 1: Attach the Dial to the Movement

Trim the dial’s legs using the provided tweezers
Slot the legs into the movement’s holes for a secure fit.

Screenshot_Ashley Tee_Namoki_Mods_Video — *Pro Tip*: Double-check with the instructions manual & the movement that you are trimming the right legs!

Step 2: Install the Hands (The Tricky Part!)

Rotate the crown clockwise until the date changes, then set the hour hand at 12:00.
Use the hand pushers to attach the hour, minute, and second hands. This took trial and error—be patient!
If the hands don’t sit snugly or misaligned, use the included dial protector and hand remover tool to try again.

*My Experience*: This was the hardest step. The second hand was especially tough, but the kit’s tools (like the dial protector) saved the day.

Step 3: Assemble the Case

Release the stem from the movement.
Place the movement and dial into the case, ensuring it’s dust-free and seated properly.
Insert the pre-cut crown stem (a beginner-friendly feature—no cutting required!).
Tighten the screw-down crown and case back using the case-back opener.

Pro Tip: The screw-down crown feels sturdy and well-made, adding a premium touch.

Step 4: Attach the Strap

The kit includes a quick-release leather strap, which is super convenient.
For my custom Midnight Sakura Tide, I swapped it for a solid end-link bracelet from Namoki Mods because the leather strap was too big for my 150mm wrist.

Customizing into ‘Midnight Sakura Tide’

The standard Sakura Dress Watch is gorgeous, but I wanted to make it extra special. Here’s how I customized it:

Rotor Swap: Replaced the standard rotor with a quirky blue wavy design (note: you’ll need a specific screwdriver for this, available from Namoki).
Transparent Case Back: Switched to a see-through case back to show off the rotor.
Silicone Gasket: Added silicone for a better seal.
Bracelet Strap: Opted for a solid end-link bracelet, which felt surprisingly high-quality compared to my other watches (like my SKX’s Jubilee bracelet).

The result? A stunning watch with a black Sakura dial that I named Midnight Sakura Tide for its unique, personal flair.

Products Used in the Tutorial

Here’s a quick recap of the key components I used:

Want to grab these products? Check out my affiliate links below and use ASHLEY10 or ASHLEY5 for extra savings!

DIY Watchmaking Kit-Sakura-Dress-Complete-Watch-Components — Start your watchmaking journey with this all-inclusive kit.

My Review: The Experience and the Watch

The DIY Experience

Building this watch was a blast! The kit is a fantastic gateway for anyone curious about watchmaking. Highlights:

Complete Kit: Everything you need is included, from rodico for dust removal to a hand remover tool.
Beginner-Friendly: Clear instructions and pre-cut parts make it accessible.
Room for improvement:
While the kit is impressive, a couple of areas could be better. The leather strap felt a bit too large for smaller wrists like mine (150mm), which made it uncomfortable until I switched to a bracelet.

Also, I found the hand pushers confusing—there wasn’t clear guidance on which pusher to use for the hour, minute, or second hands, leading to some trial and error. Labeling the pushers or including a quick guide in the instructions would help beginners like me.

Overall, it’s a perfect first step into watchmaking. The process was rewarding, and I can see why modding enthusiasts love it!

The Watch Itself

I’m obsessed with my Midnight Sakura Tide! The black Sakura dial is gorgeous, the bracelet feels heavy and premium, and the custom rotor adds a playful touch. I’ve been wearing it everywhere, and I love snapping photos of it. Maybe it’s the Ikea Effect—psychology says we value things more when we build them ourselves—but this watch feels special because I made it.

Watch the Full Tutorial

Want to see the process in action? Check out my YouTube video for a detailed look at building the Sakura Dress Watch:

Final Thoughts

Namoki Mods’ Sakura Dress Watch kit is a must-try for anyone interested in DIY watchmaking. It’s fun, approachable, and lets you create a watch you’ll love to wear. Have you tried watch modding, or are you tempted to start? Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to follow me on Instagram and YouTube for more DIY projects!

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