Homage to the Unattainable - Custom Design?

[WorldTyme]

First, let me state at the outset that I know I will never own a Rolex Milsub 5513 or 5517. Boy, don't I wish...but, with the prices I've read about approaching $150k, that's not going to happen.

So, my actual dream watch is not attainable. Therefore, I've been researching the idea of creating a "mash-up homage" if you will. Not a clone, but an homage to the unattainable.
Some years ago, I came up with the look. Then, I edited 2-3 photos of Rolex/Tudor watches to create an composite image of my actual dream watch style. The attached photos show both the Rolex & Tudor "mashup" versions of that styling. Now, before anyone's head explodes, remember this is a PHOTO SHOPPED IMAGE ONLY, not a fake, replica or anything tangible. I would not frankenwatch it together, even if I could. That would be wrong. But, these images will give you a visual representation of just what it looks like in my head (NO logos, trademarks, etc).

The look I want to achieve in my no-name, custom, homage watch includes (in order of importance to me):

1. Black Explorer style 369 dial (preferably gilt chapter ring)
2. Sword hands (preferably luminous)
3. Full indices on bezel (but I'd accept no indices)
4. Submariner type case (preferably with big crown, but without crown guards)
5. ETA or any other decent automatic movement
6. Domed crystal (I really want this, but don't think it will happen)
7. Non-date (though I would accept a date IF the "3" is still intact)
8. IDC about the band as I'll probably wear it with a NATO or Oyster style bracelet

So far, I have...
...asked MKII if they would customize a Nassau 369 or Project 300 for me. They will not.
...emailed Helenarou.com to see if they will put something together for me based on their homage 5517 case and 6200 dial. Also, inquired about custom printing on the dial. No answer as yet.
...checked out and rejected (as produced) various Alpha, Parnis, Squale, Incipio and Armada (pretty close) pieces.

I have also been looking at Steinhart's and intend to ask them about customization. We'll see if they'll help. Doubt it, though. In the meantime, I'm looking for real photos of their Ocean 39 Vintage in something other than bronze. It's so very close to my dream design.

ANY other ideas? Remember, the two most important things are the 369 dial and sword hands -- those are non-negotiables for my "dream" watch. Everything else is wishful thinking, at this point.

[WorldTyme]

140+ views and not a single reply. Hmmm...

Anyway, I decided to design the watch as I would have it made -- if I can find someone to print the dial for me. I came up with a name (Oceano Azul), a stock anchor icon (for the logo) and incorporated most of the priority items into the design (sub style case, sword hands, 369 dial).

I'm not a graphic artist nor a Photo Shop expert, so please forgive the flaws.

I'm undecided on whether to leave the 369 & 12 markers in the white or make them bronzish brown to match the other markers. I'd appreciate opinions on both. Also, I might have the "MilSub 200" text printed in the deep red, too.

Other than that, I think this is pretty much the watch I'm talking about. Any ideas now? How about a company that would do a one-off custom for me?

[tudorbaja27]

Interesting. Let us know how this pans out. I'm intrigued

[WorldTyme]

Originally Posted by tudorbaja27

Interesting. Let us know how this pans out. I'm intrigued

Thanks. I'll be glad to update either way. I think I found someone to print the dial. But, they need "camera ready art" -- not sure how to produce or acquire that, as this point. Researching the topic now.

[toxicavenger]

Ping my buddy Kellen he makes custom dials and watches https://www.instagram.com/kellencs/

[WorldTyme]

Originally Posted by toxicavenger

Ping my buddy Kellen he makes custom dials and watches https://www.instagram.com/kellencs/

THANK YOU! I'm sending him a message today. I appreciate the info.

[Terrakot]

Is this that you looking for?

http://www.gnomonwatches.com/watches...omon-exclusive
http://www.gnomonwatches.com/watches...edition-300pcs
Hurry up while they had in stock with plexiglass
At least it’s not bad base for your custom

[WorldTyme]

Originally Posted by Terrakot

Is this that you looking for?

http://www.gnomonwatches.com/watches...omon-exclusive
http://www.gnomonwatches.com/watches...edition-300pcs
Hurry up while they had in stock with plexiglass
At least it’s not bad base for your custom

The plexi model is so very close. I've been thinking about pulling the trigger on one -- and then having the hands replaced with sword hands. However, I am trying to find the exact watch before going this route.

THANK YOU for the heads up.

[tudorwatches]

You use a lot of words to tell us you want a fake rolex. Yes.. that is how i see it. If you can't afford a certain watch.. deal with it.
Hommage is another word for fake

[WorldTyme]

Originally Posted by tudorwatches

You use a lot of words to tell us you want a fake rolex. Yes.. that is how i see it. If you can't afford a certain watch.. deal with it.
Hommage is another word for fake

Well, you see it wrongly. But, I thank you for your opinion.

BTW, I did deal with the fact that I can't afford a $150k 5517 -- and still not have exactly the watch I want -- by designing is a watch that does meet my personal criteria.
This watch design is more of a "mashup" than a homage anyway. But it is, in NO way, a "fake Rolex".

FWIW, I linked the Merriam-Webster definition of "homage" for you. No where in that definition does it say "fake".

[offrdmania]

Originally Posted by tudorwatches

You use a lot of words to tell us you want a fake rolex. Yes.. that is how i see it. If you can't afford a certain watch.. deal with it.
Hommage is another word for fake

It would only be fake if it said Rolex on it anywhere

[Burlington]

Sounds like a fascinating project. Do keep us updated

[Peterandwatches]

I agree - sounds very much like a passion project. There is nowhere near close to buying a fake watch from some guy in a trench coat. Can't follow that logic at all.

Good luck!

[Finslayer83]

this ever get completed?

[John S]

www.gnomonwatch.com

Search for : Steinhart Ocean 39 Vintage.

[Bruno Datejust]

Older thread, I know. Did you find someone to print a dial with lume?