Building New Wristwatch

[Alaskamick]

I'm looking for advice on building my own watch using an ETA 6498 or 6497 movement.

 

Is it a straight forward case of buying the bits on Ebay and assembling them or there any pitfalls to avoid.

 

What is the difference between the 6497 and 6498.

 

There is a 6498 on Ebay which looks a good deal but the seller says he has had it in his desk for a while and never got round to using it. He has also sold similar items previously so I'm a bit wary as it's only £90 BIN which seems cheap.

 

Sorry I don't know how to do a direct link but here is the item no.111900328604

 

 

The movement has no branding, just "Swiss'', is this ok.

 

Any advice on how to move forward would be welcome.

 

Thanks, Mike

 

[bobm12]

Hi Mike,

 

First look under the balance wheel and you will see the ETA logo and movement number: that's your brand and model. Also, the seconds hand should be at 6 o'clock for an ETA 6498 and at 9 o'clock for an ETA 6497 (since those were originally pocket watch movements we are considering the wristwatch normal crown at 3 o'clock). Chinese clones are pretty much the same: clones! They are all at least fairly precise according to finish, version, use, etc.

 

Regarding the cases, if made for this movement they should not have any problems other than quality: some better than others. Make sure the selected dial is made for this movement and has the proper dimensions to fit the case. Also, some movements, to fit correctly in their cases need an extra ring that restrict play (called movement holder, this is most frequent on those ebay "Panerai" cases). In most cases, the rings might be missing or not supplied.

 

Most parts among the original 6498/97 and the 6498/97-1 versions including Unitas original, are interchangeable with some exceptions given by, version (notable balance bridge among others) and "orientation" (98 vs 97). The higher bit version -2 is "less" interchangeable parts wise.

 

Also, do a search in our forum to find out more about this movement and its builds. I believe we have a lot of "experience" shared in here.

 

Hope this works for you,

 

Cheers,

 

Bob

[Alaskamick]

Hi bobm12, thanks a lot for sharing your knowledge with me.

 

I feel confident to have a go. Could be a nice present for someone.

 

Cheers, Mike