Post 9: Constraints and Specifications for my Dress GMT Watch

The process in designing and building my own watch has been complicated, but is progressing. 

All of the necessary materials and components have been ordered and will arrive within the week. I’m not stressed for time since all I will have to do is paint and assemble, so as long as the parts arrive when they say they will I’ll be fine. 

Some specifications I have been working towards:

1. A GMT Movement
   1. For those who don’t know, a GMT movement allows 2 different time zones to be displayed on the same watch. 
2. A Dress Aesthetic
   1. There are tons of different kinds of casing and styles for GMT watches, but I’m aiming for a sleeker, more defined look rather than some of the Diver watches available on the watch market. 
3. Functioning Movement
   1. While the main focus of this project is aesthetics, this watch is meant to be a gift for my dad so I want to ensure it actually works. 
4. Painted Dial
   1. I want this watch to be as personal as possible for my dad, so I’ve decided to paint the dial with one of his favorite monet paintings, the Cliff Walk at Pourville

Constraints

1. Specialized Tools
   1. Assembling a watch requires the use of many specialized tools, with precise functions. 
2. Size
   1. Since this watch is intended for my dad, I had to find a case larger than the one I would use for myself. Finding this 43mm case provided some difficulties and ran me a higher price. 
3. Price
   1. As any other college student, I don’t really enjoy the idea of spending 400-600 on this project, so I had to stray from american companies and resort to purchasing my materials from AliExpress.
4. Dial Type
   1. Since I’m using a NH34 movement with a date function, I had to procure a dial with an opening for the date, and will have to paint around this. 
5. Paint
   1. Painting on a dial requires a lot of prep and patience. I have to get enamel paint for the best look, and need some gloss and toner.