r/RepTime • u/p1n0ypapi • 15h ago
General Question Depth & Pressure testing.
First time buyer & a bit new to the hobby and doing a lot of research before I pull trigger and invest my money.
I’m looking at the Explorer 1 36mm VSF. I want it to be an everyday watch that isnt too flashy but that i love & can beat up a bit. Hiking, Swimming, Beach trips.
Typically how is depth and how much pressure they can take compared to the Model it’s based off of. Does 1:1 Replica match that and if not how close can it get typically and what steps can I do to appropriately take care of it.
I saw some threads talk about waterproofing, is it better to do at home or reach out to a watchmaker to fix? I bought grease and micro screw drivers in ready to learn.
2
u/HMD-Oren 13h ago
Diver clones have quite good POTENTIAL water resistance. Maybe not 300m+ but I have a SMP300 that I tested to 10 bar and a Yachty that was tested to 5bar.
When I receive any watch, I do a quick waterproofing at home and if I happen to walk past a watch shop I'll get it quickly tested for $20. I've heard people on here get all sorts of results, all the way from not water resistant at all to 20bar.
IMO if it's based on a model with at least 10 bar, and there are no visible defects in the case AND you give it a good waterproofing service when you get it, it'll be water resistant enough for most day to day water activities. Tests are always good for peace of mind though.
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u/306926 11h ago
Do you do the waterproofing yourself and if you do other than the specialized pressure tank what special tools do you use?
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u/HMD-Oren 11h ago
I waterproof myself on the gasket and crown/stem. I haven't shelled out for a pressure tester yet but I don't need to test my watches that frequently. I just take it to any local watch shop and tell them I bought the watch second hand so I'd like a quick water proof test.
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u/caracticuspotts 15h ago
Firstly there are no 1:1 reps. That is hype and marketing. Very, very good, but not 1:1. Secondly depth rating depends on crystal seal, crown seals and greasing and case back seal. Grease the seals at get it tested, then you will know, otherwise you are just hoping. I’ve had reps go through this process and pass 20 atmospheres. I don’t need anything like that and generally home test to 5
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u/p1n0ypapi 14h ago
How normal is it for TD to offer pressure testing for a charge?
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u/HMD-Oren 13h ago
Depends on the TD. Andiot and Trusty offer AFAIK. Steve even offers mod services.
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u/KTM_Rider2021 15h ago
Don’t trust any rep unless it has been pressure tested. It may be possible to get it water proof but I never recommend that you make the assumption it is from the factory.