This entire build has come about from a single video posted online, where a fellow Seiko modifier picked up a new release Turtle SRPC23 with a stunning anthracite grey dial for the sole purpose of swapping into an SKX.
I immediately fell in love with the stunning (and rare) grey dial offset against the shiny black ceramic bezel insert & polished stainless case of the SKX. Whilst I have taken considerable inspiration from this build, I have changed a few parts to suit my build; namely the bezel, bezel insert, bracelet, caseback and crown.
I have chosen to build this one from scratch rather than convert a Seiko SKX - the reasons for this decision are twofold; - The original 7s26 movement, dial, hardlex crystal, bracelet, bezel and insert will be null & void - The price of complete SKXs is now rather ridiculous with the model being discontinued
Parts are on order as of late December, with the expectation of a January build. Current order list: - Seiko SRPC23 Prospex New Turtle (with 4R36 movement) - Bare SKX case with drilled lugs - Sterile caseback (polished) - Black 'Yachtmaster' bezel insert - MM300 replacement bezel - Seiko signed crown - Double dome sapphire crystal with blue AR
Bracelet is currently undecided. Chances are I shall stick with an aftermarket "Oyster" style number, I shall try a Jubilee for size once the case arrives. I shall retain the original hands and movement - there's minimal gain replacing these parts as I do not want to sacrifice the original lume.