007 Hi-Dome Plex DIY

[Dan Pierce]

After reading Michael 808's thread I decided to give it a go.



I ordered the XHD30 from Esslinger which was delivered in just a few days. Wasn't sure whether I should or could use the existing Hardlex gasket and would decide once I could examine the fit. The XHD30 was too small [like the Harlex] to use without the gasket but just the ever so slightest bit too large with it. Do I purchase the crystal lift or sand a very small amount round the edge, risking the possibility of ruining the gasket? Decided to trim the plex crystal with Scotchbrite after taping the entire surface except the edge that seats in the case. Using my "McGyver esque" tools I slowly compressed the crystal down till it popped down in place. Leaving the movement out I reinstalled the case back, crown, and bezel. Took the assembly down to the utility tub where I subjected the watch to as much water pressure as possible to all vulnerable areas. Filled the tub and left the watch submerged for a time with no water entry of any kind. Not a certified WR test but more than my most of my watches ever experience. Feeling confident is the WR I reapplied silicone to the seals and did final assembly.

Love the profile.


A perfect match with the Murphy bezel. Together they give this modern watch a classic vibe.


Hi-Dome vs Hardlex.







Thanks to Michael 808 and scdone123 for the inspiration, stevenkelby and bluloo for the additional info.

dP

[Ottovonn]

Very nice. I've got to get one of these for my SKX's. Love the minimalist dial.

[cold_beer839]

Looks nice. Link to the original thread?

[3pointross]

Simply awesome. How did you know you sanded enough to press the crystal in?

Sent from my ADR6400L using Tapatalk 2

[serdal23]

It already has looked awesome with your killer dial, bezel, and 12 hour insert. Now this acrylic domed crystal it is a jaw dropper, my friend.

Thanks for sharing, and wear it in the best of health . . .

Capt. Serdal

[charlieboy89]

very nice!

[fireftr45]

Dan that is simply awesome!!!! What a vintage look and with the murphy bezel it just perfect. Love that profile shot!!!! No clearance issues with the bezel? Crystal and bezel are a happy fit? Gonna copy this one for sure!

Erik

[bluloo]

Looks good.

The Murphy bezel really rounds it out nicely.

[Drop of a Hat]

Looks so much better now.

Sent via Tapatalk

[Dan Pierce]

Thanks for the kind words, everybody!

Looks nice. Link to the original thread?

http://forums.watchuseek.com/f21/hig...007-708206.htm

Simply awesome. How did you know you sanded enough to press the crystal in?

Sent from my ADR6400L using Tapatalk 2

Just did it by eye. It's possible I didn't need to remove anything and didn't seem to take off much. Made sure to apply a thin even coat of silicone on the gasket to help.

Although it was a success next time (geez, I'm already planning another?????) I might try to fit a larger crystal to use without a gasket. But I'd probably use a crystal lift to install that one.

Dan that is simply awesome!!!! What a vintage look and with the murphy bezel it just perfect. Love that profile shot!!!! No clearance issues with the bezel? Crystal and bezel are a happy fit? Gonna copy this one for sure!

Erik

Perfect fit, no issues at all with the Murphy bezel.

I'm amazed the difference the Hi-Dome makes in the overal appearance. Really glad I gave this a shot.
dP