Adding A Cyclops To My Seiko Speedtimer “Pogue”

Hey watch enthusiasts! So, you know how we all get those little ideas that pop into our heads and we just have to try them out? Well, I had one of those recently, and it involved my Seiko Prospex Speedtimer “Pogue”. If you're not familiar, the Pogue is a legendary watch, a true vintage icon with a vibrant history. I've been loving mine, but I thought, "What if..." What if I added a cyclops magnifier to the crystal? It’s a pretty bold move, I know, because it will change the original design. I know many purists out there might gasp at the thought, but hey, it's my watch, right? And I love tinkering and personalizing things, so let's get into the details of this watch modification.

The Allure of the Seiko Speedtimer Pogue

First off, let's talk about why the Seiko Speedtimer Pogue is so awesome in the first place. This watch isn't just any old timepiece; it's got a rich history tied to space exploration and adventure. Its vibrant dial, distinctive case, and robust automatic chronograph movement make it a true head-turner. The Pogue, named after Colonel William Pogue, who wore one on the Skylab 4 mission, is a colorful watch and really pops on the wrist. I also love the iconic cushion case design. The watch is simply a timeless classic. It’s a vintage watch so parts can be difficult to source. The 6139 movement is a workhorse, a legendary automatic chronograph movement, and a big part of the Pogue's charm. It has a high-beat rate, smooth sweep of the seconds hand, and a satisfying push of the chronograph pushers. The Pogue is a great watch to add to your collection. This watch has a real connection to the history of watchmaking, but also to human adventure. The allure of vintage watches often comes from these stories. The watch represents a connection to a specific time, like the early 1970s. It represents a different era of style and design, that’s so important.

But that's not all that makes the watch special. Owning a vintage watch means owning a piece of history. These watches tell a story, and the Pogue is no exception. Each scratch, mark, and imperfection adds character and tells a tale of its journey through time. And that's what draws so many people to vintage timepieces. Now, if you are looking at your own watch, you might see room for improvement. I did! The crystal on the Pogue, as with many vintage watches, is often a source of scratches and can sometimes affect legibility, especially in certain lighting conditions. That is why I had this crazy idea to add a cyclops magnifier.

Why a Cyclops? Enhancing Legibility

Now, why the cyclops? Well, there are several reasons. First and foremost, adding a cyclops magnifier significantly improves the legibility of the date display. As our eyes get older, reading the date on a watch can become a bit of a squinting exercise. The cyclops magnifies the date, making it much easier to read at a glance. For those of us who appreciate the details, this is a huge plus. The cyclops is a practical modification. Even if you have perfect vision, the cyclops can make it much easier to read the date. It is a quick glance and you have all the information you need. The second reason is that it gives the watch a slightly more modern look. I know this is a vintage watch, but I do enjoy a more modern look on some of my watches. While the Pogue has a vintage charm, the cyclops adds a touch of contemporary flair. A magnifier is a very practical enhancement that adds another layer of functionality. It’s like adding a modern feature to a classic car. It is a way of bridging the gap between old and new. I thought the contrast between the vintage design and the modern practicality could create an interesting and unique look. Adding the cyclops magnifier is a quick and easy way to add a bit of personality to the watch. Let’s face it, we all like to personalize our watches. It is the best way to make the watch your own. It is your watch so why not do what you want? I wanted to see if I could blend the vintage charm of the Pogue with a modern, practical feature.

The Modification Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, so here's a quick rundown of how I went about adding the cyclops to my Seiko Prospex Speedtimer “Pogue.” Now, I am not a watchmaker, and I strongly recommend consulting a professional if you're not comfortable with this type of work. But if you’re brave (and have the right tools), here's what it entailed.

First, you need to acquire the necessary components. This includes a new crystal with a cyclops magnifier (I chose a sapphire crystal for its durability), a crystal press, and some basic watchmaking tools. Sourcing the right parts is essential. The new crystal has to be the right size. Choosing a sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating will improve clarity and reduce glare. The crystal press is essential to the install. It provides even pressure to seal the new crystal. Basic tools also include screwdrivers, a case opener, and other small tools. Make sure you have everything you need. This saves you the headache of stopping mid-project. Then, you remove the old crystal. This is the trickiest part because the crystal is tightly secured. You’ll need a crystal press and the right dies to push out the old crystal without damaging the case. Be extra careful here! Once the old crystal is out, it's time to prepare the case for the new one. Clean the case thoroughly to remove any dust or debris. This helps to ensure a watertight seal. If you have the right tools you can remove the old crystal yourself. Make sure to get any debris off the watch to ensure a good seal.

Next, the crystal needs to be carefully seated in the watch case. Place the new crystal into the case, making sure it's properly aligned. With the crystal press, apply even pressure until the crystal is firmly seated. This will vary depending on your crystal. Check the seal of the crystal by gently pressing on the crystal after installation. And, finally, reassemble the watch and admire your work. You're done!

The Results: How Does it Look?

So, how does the Seiko Speedtimer “Pogue” look with the cyclops magnifier? Honestly, I'm pretty stoked with the result! The magnified date is super easy to read, and it does give the watch a slightly more contemporary vibe. It is important to know that the new crystal is a bit thicker, and this changed the aesthetic of the watch. The magnifier adds a practical element to an already iconic watch. It makes the watch more functional for everyday wear. The cyclops adds a layer of visual interest to the dial. It gives the watch a more distinct look. The cyclops is a conversation starter. People will notice the change, and the watch will spark discussions. The visual improvement is not very drastic. The cyclops magnifier is subtle. The sapphire crystal is very clear and the anti-reflective coating improves the watch dial readability. The magnifier is a nice touch, and it does make a difference when checking the date. Now, this is a personal preference, and as I mentioned before, some watch enthusiasts might not be fans of the modification.

Final Thoughts and Considerations

Overall, I'm thrilled with how the cyclops modification turned out on my Seiko Prospex Speedtimer “Pogue.” It’s a subtle yet impactful change that enhances the watch's functionality and adds a touch of personal flair. If you're considering a similar modification, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Professional Help: Unless you're comfortable and experienced with watchmaking, it's best to seek professional assistance. Watch modification is a delicate process and can potentially damage your watch if not done carefully. There are a number of watchmakers that you can find online. Always make sure to check reviews and ensure they have experience with the watch modification you are looking for.
• Parts Sourcing: Finding the right crystal with the correct specifications is crucial. Make sure you source your parts from a reputable supplier to ensure quality and compatibility.
• Water Resistance: After any crystal replacement, it's essential to have the watch pressure-tested to ensure it maintains its water resistance. This is very important. After the modification, it's always a good idea to test the water resistance to make sure you didn’t damage anything. You should always have your watch pressure tested, especially if you are using it in water.
• Originality: Remember that modifying a vintage watch may affect its value to collectors. If you're concerned about preserving the watch's original value, this might not be the right modification for you.

Adding the cyclops magnifier to my Seiko Speedtimer “Pogue” was a rewarding experience, and I'm loving the refreshed look. It’s a testament to the fact that you can personalize your watches and make them truly your own. Whether you're a seasoned watch modifier or just curious, I hope this article has provided some inspiration and insight. Happy watch modding, everyone!