Got a new project today, a friend asked me to help him make a high imitation Rolex, specifically the GMT-Master II Batman Bezel. Sounds like a fun challenge, so let’s dive in.
Getting Started
First thing I did was to get a basic stainless steel watch case. This is the foundation, you know? I made sure it was the right size and shape, similar to the real Rolex. Then, I got a movement. Not a real Rolex one, obviously, but a decent automatic movement that keeps good time. I mean, the point is to make it look and feel like a Rolex, not to bankrupt myself.
The Batman Bezel
This is the key part. The Batman Bezel is what makes this watch stand out, with its black and blue ceramic. I managed to find a pretty good quality replica bezel online. It wasn’t cheap, but it’s crucial for that iconic look. Fitting it onto the case was a bit tricky. I used a small press and made sure it was perfectly aligned. I took it slow and steady, don’t want to scratch or break anything.
Dial and Hands
Next up, the dial. I found a replica dial that had the Rolex logo and the GMT-Master II text. It even had the little date window. I carefully attached it to the movement. Then came the hands – hour, minute, second, and the GMT hand. This was delicate work. I used tweezers and a magnifying glass to get them on just right. The GMT hand is a different color, just like the original, so it can track a second time zone. Pretty cool, huh?
Putting it all Together
With the bezel, dial, and hands in place, it was time to put the movement into the case. I used a case holder to keep everything steady and gently placed the movement inside. Then, I secured the case back, making sure it was water-resistant. I used some silicone grease to ensure the seal is secure. It’s like how the real Rolex watch was sealed. That’s the whole idea, right?
The Bracelet
No Rolex is complete without its bracelet. I found a stainless steel bracelet that closely resembled the original. It had that solid, heavy feel, which is important. Attaching it to the case was straightforward. I used spring bars and a spring bar tool. It took some trial and error to get them securely in place, but eventually, I got it.
Final Touches
Once everything was assembled, I gave the watch a good polish. I used a soft cloth and some polishing compound to make it shine. I wound it up and set the time, including the GMT hand. It’s so satisfying to see it ticking away, looking almost like the real deal. Although not entirely the real deal, for sure.
The Result
So there you have it, my high imitation Rolex GMT-Master II Batman Bezel. It’s not perfect, but it’s a pretty good replica. My friend was really happy with it, and that’s what matters. It’s a fun project, and I learned a lot about watchmaking along the way. Hope you enjoyed reading about my little adventure. Maybe I’ll try another model next time!
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