Hello OFers,

This is my first Zenith vintage, whose history is totally unknown to me. (Movement ref. is 106-50-6)

Its caseback is a boring SS generic back, so I'd rather replace it with another generic but see-through back.

However, I have no idea on the case reference of this watch.... How can I find the right one for this?

Thanks!!

 

They create custom display backs: https://vintagecaliber.com/
Its about 250-300 EUR

 

That's a very nice gilt movement!

Custom Watch Concepts has a number of casebacks in stock, sadly only 2 Zenith chronographs and no custom work... lots of Rolex and Speedmaster models! http://www.customwatchconcepts.com/

It's very unlikely that you will find a generic that exactly fits your case, custom would probably be the way to go.

I notice that VintageCaliber only works with EU clients for transparent casebacks

In case you live on another continent... Peter Wuischpard in Florida also makes customs for around ~$200, you would have to mail him your watch. He's working on one for my 1950s 35mm stainless Zenith and I will post pics in a few months after a long wait. He also did the casebacks for SteveG's magnificent watch collection (easily searchable on Google) https://www.watchcaserepair.com/viewable-backs

One thing to take into consideration is the possible impact of caseback modification on water resistance, your movement may be slightly more prone to moisture effects.

Good luck!

 

Because you caseback holds the movement in place, the steel periphery of the see-through will have to be rather wide thus reducing the diameter of your viewing window.

You probably need to photoshop a mock-up to see if you'd be happy with the outcome.

 

So have you done business with Peter Wuischpard before? I have a Universal Geneve I sent to him in January, I'm still waiting on. It's needs two new lugs. Is his wait usually this long?

 

Take movement picture. Print movement picture. Trim movement picture into a circle. Glue movement picture on caseback. Enjoy the money saved.

 

It's also my first time doing business with him, and I sent my watch case in ~March so you have a two-month head start!

The best way to cope with the wait is to find other projects to occupy oneself with in the interim...

 

I've got plenty of projects, but I'm most anxious for the Universal Geneve. I've already had about a dozen people PM me asking about it.

 

Just got an email from him saying he started my project, and it will be done soon. So looks like maybe a 5 month wait, just to give you an idea.

 

Glass or crystals made to sp

Glass or Crystals are custom made to your specification, Glass cost $46 Crystals $21.
Though one can be made to fit in the SS back of the watch, I recommend keeping the back unaltered.
Should you decide on this, drop me a MSG for details.
Regards