This video documents a father-son watch-building project using an affordable AliExpress kit. The host and his child ("Trouble") assemble a watch inspired by the Cartier Santos XL, integrating a Seiko NH36 automatic movement. A key highlight is the custom, colorful dial designed by the child, which the host then enhances and lacquers. The video details overcoming practical challenges, such as modifying a replacement stem from a different watch to fit the Seiko movement and upgrading the rotor for aesthetic appeal. The project culminates in the reveal of a unique, personalized timepiece, emphasizing the sentimental value of the collaborative effort, and concludes with a call to action regarding global events.
Building a Bespoke Watch with "Trouble": An AliExpress Kit Project
0:00:03 A Fun and Easy Project: The host introduces a watch-building project from an AliExpress kit, aiming for something fun and engaging for his child, "Trouble," to get involved in.
0:00:28 The AliExpress Kit: The kit, purchased for £38, includes a 316 stainless steel case and bracelet, glass, crown, movement ring, screws, and a choice of dial and hands, styled after the popular Cartier Santos XL.
0:00:59 Seiko NH36 Movement: A Seiko NH36 automatic movement was acquired separately for £26. Although it has day/date functions, the chosen dials do not feature corresponding windows.
0:01:05 Dial Exploration and Customization: Various dial options are showcased, including a classic Roman numeral style, a "Tiffany" style (which unexpectedly came with Seiko branding), a skeleton steampunk dial, and a blank dial for "Trouble" to personalize.
0:01:56 "Trouble's" Masterpiece: The host's son, "Trouble," designs a unique, colorful dial, which is initially humorously critiqued but later enhanced by the host.
0:02:09 Total Build Cost: The total estimated cost for the watch, including the kit and movement, is approximately £65 (less than $90), making it an affordable customization project.
0:03:17 Dial Lacquering: The custom dial is given a glossy lacquer finish to protect the paint and make the metallic colors "pop," with a humorous anecdote about an ant getting high on the fumes.
0:06:06 Crown and Stem Challenges: The kit's crown pays homage to Cartier's iconic blue cabochon (though it's not real sapphire). A challenge arises when the original stem from the kit is missing or turns out to be a dummy.
0:06:51 Stem Interchangeability and Modification: The host cleverly adapts a stem from a damaged Rotary automatic watch (which uses Seiko Hattori movements) by carefully filing it down to fit the Seiko NH36 movement, demonstrating practical watchmaking skills and parts compatibility.
0:09:00 Successful Stem Functionality: The modified stem successfully enables winding and hand-setting for the movement, bypassing the quick-set date function since the dial has no date window.
0:10:29 Rotor Upgrade: The stock Seiko rotor is replaced with a more aesthetically pleasing skeletonized rotor from the damaged Rotary watch, enhancing the view through the exhibition case back.
0:10:55 Stem Cutting and Installation: The stem is meticulously cut to the correct length, filed, and installed with the crown, emphasizing the importance of gradual adjustments.
0:14:16 Crystal Verification: The watch's front and back crystals are tested and confirmed to be mineral glass, aligning with the kit's affordable price point.
0:14:43 Final Assembly and Reveal: "Trouble's" custom dial is installed, and different hand options are considered for optimal visibility against the colorful background. The watch is then fully assembled, complete with a waterproofing gasket and gradually tightened screws.
0:17:12 The Finished Watch: The final bespoke watch is revealed, praised for its warm, vibrant appearance and the unique "canvas" provided by the square case.
0:18:00 Community Engagement and Future Plans: The host invites viewers to suggest ideas for adding loomed hour markers to the dial and promises an update in a future video.
0:18:18 "Trouble's" Priceless Reaction: "Trouble" expresses excitement, valuing the watch at £4,000, while the host emphasizes its priceless sentimental value as a father-son creation.
0:19:12 Encouragement and Call to Action: The video concludes by encouraging viewers to undertake similar projects with their children and includes a final message advocating for using one's voice to address the genocide in Gaza.