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Tools · 1 December 2010, 05:30 AM

Thomas Preik is a Master Watchmaker located in Germany. He has carved out a niche in the Horological Community with his custom manufactured Clear Case-backs.

We reviewed and installed his First Generation case-back last year here: This year Thomas has developed an exciting New Generation case-back that looks almost factory direct. This new case-back uses a standard 29.5mm Rolex case-back socket. Let's get the advertised specs out of the way:
- High quality Stainless Steel construction
- Sapphire Crystal
- Guaranteed Waterproof and acid proof
- Same height as original

Well, let's spend some time looking over this New Generation case-back and see if the advertised claims hold up.

For our review we have acquired an example that fits the Sub, GMT, Exp II, and a few others... He also has case-backs that will fit a variety of other models. Check out all his offerings here: http://www.customwatchconcepts.com/

Here is the one we will be using:

Copy1ofIMG_0005.jpg

Copy2ofIMG_0001.jpg

Fit and finish are excellent. The sapphire crystal is press fit into the case-back from it's face using a composite gasket. You can see the gasket around the edge of the crystal. This fitment is quite secure and is the same as that used to fit the sapphire crystal on the front of your watch..

Looking at the face we can see the ridges that mate perfectly with the Rolex case-back socket:
- Sapphire thickness - .035"/.900mm
- Sapphire diameter -- 1.025"/26.04mm
- Overall diameter ---- 1.38"/35.05mm
IMG_0007.jpg
Flipping the case-back on it's back, we can see the generous lip that the crystal and gasket fits up against. This lip keeps the crystal where it belongs and prevents any pressure from pressing it in further protecting the movement from damage. Crystal thickness is similar to the dial crystal and so it should be able to hold up to the same surface/atmospheric pressures that the watch encounters.

Copy2ofIMG_0004.jpg

Thomas advertises that it is the same "height" as an original case-back.. We found this to be true when compared with the Sub case-back. When comparing it with the slightly smaller GMT case-back, you can see that it is slightly less than a half mm taller. On the wrist, this is unnoticeable for this model.
IMG_0009.jpg

As mentioned, one of the exciting aspects of this New Generation design is it's use of the standard socket for installation and removal. I use an LG Openall case back tool (see the first gen review for use of this tool). Installation is straightforward and simple to do by any watchmaker.. The standard LG 29.5mm Rolex Socket was used.

IMG_0010.jpg

Here is what the final installation looks like on a Sub-c 116610. Measurements of the thickness of the Sub with an original case-back is .505"/12.83mm , and the measurement with the Preik case-back measured the same:

Copy2ofIMG_0003.jpg

This example is destined for a GMT 16710. Installation was easy and fit was perfect. A pressure check showed the clear case-back to be as watertight as the original steel back. Claims of acid proof were not tested....

After installation and pressure test, which it easily passed:
caseback.jpg

Clear case-backs aren't for everybody. However, if you want to show off that Rolex movement, and you want a bit of customization, this one comes highly recommended..

Thomas on-line sales site: http://www.customwatchconcepts.com/

Neither TRF nor the author have any affiliation with Mr. Preik or his enterprise. This review is for the enjoyment of, and information to, the members of TRF..

t e x · 1 December 2010, 05:44 AM

Splendid Larry

STEELINOX · 1 December 2010, 05:44 AM

Giddy Up Larry !

dddrees · 1 December 2010, 05:48 AM

Excellent review, thanks for sharing Larry.

Definitely worth considering.

buz-lh · 1 December 2010, 05:52 AM

Excellent writeup and pictures Larry. Looks like a great option.

Danand · 1 December 2010, 06:04 AM

Thank you. Very interesting AND very tempting. Although I think it would be prudent to wait until the watch is out of warranty- wouldn't this void a warranty?
Cheers.

watchteacher · 1 December 2010, 06:09 AM

'Guaranteed waterproof'? No watch is waterproof.

Danand · 1 December 2010, 06:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by watchteacher

'Guaranteed waterproof'? No watch is waterproof.

True but as tools showed the watch pressure tests to the original specs, and given that the watchmaker is German it is possible he doesn't get the exact nuance of the wording in English. Would you prefer "garanteed water resistant"? Waterproof was a term used commonly not that long ago( ok maybe 35-40 years ago) so perhaps that is the term he is used to.

esm · 1 December 2010, 06:19 AM

awesome review Larry.
i think the Rolex movement looks great!

Danand · 1 December 2010, 06:19 AM

Btw I can assure you his English is wayyyyy better than my German!

TSW · 1 December 2010, 06:29 AM

Great review as always Larry

spuds · 1 December 2010, 06:36 AM

Excellent!!

Thanks for sharing & I'd certainly do it!

watchteacher · 1 December 2010, 06:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Danand

True but as tools showed the watch pressure tests to the original specs, and given that the watchmaker is German it is possible he doesn't get the exact nuance of the wording in English. Would you prefer "garanteed water resistant"? Waterproof was a term used commonly not that long ago( ok maybe 35-40 years ago) so perhaps that is the term he is used to.

I just ordered one for my two tone blue sub, so I'll test it myself after I install it. For clarity, I just wanted to correct the term; people toss the word waterproof often around. And water resistance is a condition; you can have the watch tested in the morning, knock the watch on its crown an hour later and have it now be not water resistant, or indeed less water resistant.

And the price to me was under $160 to me, the price on the website includes the heavy VAT tax, which doesn't apply to US residents.

Danand · 1 December 2010, 06:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by watchteacher

I just ordered one for my two tone blue sub, so I'll test it myself after I install it. For clarity, I just wanted to correct the term; people toss the word waterproof often around. And water resistance is a condition; you can have the watch tested in the morning, knock the watch on its crown an hour later and have it now be not water resistant, or indeed less water resistant.

And the price to me was under $160 to me, the price on the website includes the heavy VAT tax, which doesn't apply to US residents.

You'll have to post a thread later to let us all know how it goes. Is your watch old enough to be out of warranty? Good luck with it. I think it looks like a really nice option.

Just saw that your sub is a Tiffany so I'll assume it's out of warranty!

SteKos · 1 December 2010, 06:56 AM

It's been a while since I've been on his page, I see he now has one for the 116713. Looks like it's time to mod my GMT.

Numismatist · 1 December 2010, 07:08 AM

I'm waiting for that toothed 2nd generation to be available for a datejust, then I'm all in!

1340jas · 1 December 2010, 07:14 AM

What a great review with very good photographs. I am seriously considering one of these casebacks.
Well done Larry.

t e x · 1 December 2010, 07:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Danand

Thank you. Very interesting AND very tempting. Although I think it would be prudent to wait until the watch is out of warranty- wouldn't this void a warranty?
Cheers.

'

Why can't one replace with the original caseback prior to any warranty work that may be needed?

Skullring · 1 December 2010, 07:41 AM

Very nice. Thorough as always Larry. Thanks for the review.

Dr.Brian · 1 December 2010, 08:00 AM

Thanks for the review Larry. Looks good and the price is very appealing. My only reservation is that I take my SD in the ocean/pool all the time.

conrail · 1 December 2010, 08:17 AM

Looks great, thanks for the write up and great pictures!

Danand · 1 December 2010, 08:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by t e x

'

Why can't one replace with the original caseback prior to any warranty work that may be needed?

I guess I just get a little paranoid about these sorts of things

Dan Pierce · 1 December 2010, 08:36 AM

Picture perfect, Larry.

Well done!

dP

jmsrolls · 1 December 2010, 09:48 AM

Looks good, Larry!

As you know, I tried one of his Gen I backs on my EXPII but the dimensions changed the way the watch sat on my wrist so I put the steel back on.

I also ordered one of his display backs for my Omega SMP and he sent me the wrong size (mid-size). Eventually he sent the correct back but the edge-to-edge diameter was .5mm too large which prevented the back from screwing all the way down for a seal. Fortunately my watchmaker was able to machine the edge down and make it fit. (The machining cost me an extra $50.)

I hope someone will install a Gen II on an EXPII and provide measurements for a comparison with the OEM.

Fr. John†

xjeeunitx · 1 December 2010, 09:52 AM

This is very cool and tempting!

HL65 · 1 December 2010, 10:06 AM

Very cool Larry!!! Great review!

globalmedia33 · 1 December 2010, 10:41 AM

Very nice. Thanks for sharing Larry....

rfknauss · 1 December 2010, 10:49 AM

Awesome Larry ..... thank you for sharing!

sleddog · 1 December 2010, 10:58 AM

A great post Larry!!

Latrodectus · 1 December 2010, 11:47 AM

Very beautiful, Larry. I want one too!

1 December 2010, 05:30 AM	#1
Tools TRF Moderator & 2024 SUBMARINER Patron Join Date: May 2007 Real Name: Larry Location: Mojave Desert Watch: GMT's Posts: 43,457	Clear Case-back, Thomas Preik New Generation Review Thomas Preik is a Master Watchmaker located in Germany. He has carved out a niche in the Horological Community with his custom manufactured Clear Case-backs. We reviewed and installed his First Generation case-back last year here: This year Thomas has developed an exciting New Generation case-back that looks almost factory direct. This new case-back uses a standard 29.5mm Rolex case-back socket. Let's get the advertised specs out of the way: - High quality Stainless Steel construction - Sapphire Crystal - Guaranteed Waterproof and acid proof - Same height as original Well, let's spend some time looking over this New Generation case-back and see if the advertised claims hold up. For our review we have acquired an example that fits the Sub, GMT, Exp II, and a few others... He also has case-backs that will fit a variety of other models. Check out all his offerings here: http://www.customwatchconcepts.com/ Here is the one we will be using: Copy1ofIMG_0005.jpg Copy2ofIMG_0001.jpg Fit and finish are excellent. The sapphire crystal is press fit into the case-back from it's face using a composite gasket. You can see the gasket around the edge of the crystal. This fitment is quite secure and is the same as that used to fit the sapphire crystal on the front of your watch.. Looking at the face we can see the ridges that mate perfectly with the Rolex case-back socket: - Sapphire thickness - .035"/.900mm - Sapphire diameter -- 1.025"/26.04mm - Overall diameter ---- 1.38"/35.05mm IMG_0007.jpg Flipping the case-back on it's back, we can see the generous lip that the crystal and gasket fits up against. This lip keeps the crystal where it belongs and prevents any pressure from pressing it in further protecting the movement from damage. Crystal thickness is similar to the dial crystal and so it should be able to hold up to the same surface/atmospheric pressures that the watch encounters. Copy2ofIMG_0004.jpg Thomas advertises that it is the same "height" as an original case-back.. We found this to be true when compared with the Sub case-back. When comparing it with the slightly smaller GMT case-back, you can see that it is slightly less than a half mm taller. On the wrist, this is unnoticeable for this model. IMG_0009.jpg As mentioned, one of the exciting aspects of this New Generation design is it's use of the standard socket for installation and removal. I use an LG Openall case back tool (see the first gen review for use of this tool). Installation is straightforward and simple to do by any watchmaker.. The standard LG 29.5mm Rolex Socket was used. IMG_0010.jpg Here is what the final installation looks like on a Sub-c 116610. Measurements of the thickness of the Sub with an original case-back is .505"/12.83mm , and the measurement with the Preik case-back measured the same: Copy2ofIMG_0003.jpg This example is destined for a GMT 16710. Installation was easy and fit was perfect. A pressure check showed the clear case-back to be as watertight as the original steel back. Claims of acid proof were not tested.... After installation and pressure test, which it easily passed: caseback.jpg Clear case-backs aren't for everybody. However, if you want to show off that Rolex movement, and you want a bit of customization, this one comes highly recommended.. Thomas on-line sales site: http://www.customwatchconcepts.com/ Neither TRF nor the author have any affiliation with Mr. Preik or his enterprise. This review is for the enjoyment of, and information to, the members of TRF.. __________________ (Chill ... It's just a watch Forum.....) NAWCC Member Last edited by Tools; 25 October 2019 at 02:57 AM..

1 December 2010, 05:44 AM	#2
t e x "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Real Name: Joel Location: Renton, WA Watch: 16610LV Posts: 2,990	Splendid Larry __________________ ___/ /_/ /_____ 16610LV; Ball Diver EMT II \:::::::::::::::/ ~~~~~~~~~~

1 December 2010, 05:44 AM	#3
STEELINOX 2024 ROLEX SUBMARINER 41 Pledge Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Real Name: Sink-O! Location: a praire in AZ Watch: ROLEX-less atm... Posts: 14,017	Giddy Up Larry ! __________________ *Positive Waves Baby* Lug Hole Loyalist / Chamfer Line Inspector INFORTHE WIN SUB-MAH-REEEN-ER ~ !

1 December 2010, 05:52 AM	#5
buz-lh "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: Buz Location: Atlanta Watch: Rolex Tudor Pam Posts: 5,108	Excellent writeup and pictures Larry. Looks like a great option. __________________ Buz The faster you move, the slower time passes, the longer you live. Peter Diamandis

1 December 2010, 06:29 AM	#11
TSW "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Real Name: TSW Location: Le Brassus Watch: Rolex & AP's Posts: 27,449	Great review as always Larry __________________ AP Owners Club IG @swiss.watch.connection

1 December 2010, 05:48 AM	#4
dddrees "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2010 Real Name: Dan Location: USA Watch: This N That Posts: 34,251	Excellent review, thanks for sharing Larry. Definitely worth considering.

1 December 2010, 06:04 AM	#6
Danand "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2010 Real Name: Jonathan Location: Ottawa Watch: 116610LN Posts: 1,246	Thank you. Very interesting AND very tempting. Although I think it would be prudent to wait until the watch is out of warranty- wouldn't this void a warranty? Cheers.

1 December 2010, 06:09 AM	#7
watchteacher Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Northern NJ Watch: Tiffany blue Sub Posts: 244	'Guaranteed waterproof'? No watch is waterproof.

1 December 2010, 06:19 AM	#9
esm "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Real Name: Eric Location: Location,Location Watch: this, bro... Posts: 15,340	awesome review Larry. i think the Rolex movement looks great!

1 December 2010, 06:36 AM	#12
spuds "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2009 Real Name: Dan Location: Essex, UK Watch: West Ham! COYI!! Posts: 7,941	Excellent!! Thanks for sharing & I'd certainly do it! __________________ Onwards & Upwards Rodders...... Onwards & Upwards. Life is not about how fast you can run or how high you can climb........... It's about how well you can bounce!! TRF HALL OF FAME JANUARY 2010

1 December 2010, 06:56 AM	#15
SteKos Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Wisconsin Posts: 150	It's been a while since I've been on his page, I see he now has one for the 116713. Looks like it's time to mod my GMT.

1 December 2010, 07:08 AM	#16
Numismatist "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Real Name: Chris Location: Camden ME & STT Watch: 116600 Posts: 6,350	I'm waiting for that toothed 2nd generation to be available for a datejust, then I'm all in! __________________ Rolex 116600 Sea-dweller Montblanc Solitaire Doué Black & White Legrand FP Montblanc Solitaire Doué Black & White RB Montblanc Meisterstück Diamond Mozart BP Montblanc Meisterstück Mozart BP

1 December 2010, 07:14 AM	#17
1340jas "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Real Name: Jason Location: Wales Watch: SS Sub Date 'V' Posts: 199	What a great review with very good photographs. I am seriously considering one of these casebacks. Well done Larry.

1 December 2010, 07:41 AM	#19
Skullring "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Real Name: Phillip Location: Alabama Watch: Triple 6 SD Posts: 1,720	Very nice. Thorough as always Larry. Thanks for the review. __________________ It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye. - Antoine de Saint Exupéry

1 December 2010, 08:00 AM	#20
Dr.Brian 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Real Name: Brian Location: CA dreamin' Watch: ing the market. Posts: 5,904	Thanks for the review Larry. Looks good and the price is very appealing. My only reservation is that I take my SD in the ocean/pool all the time. __________________ -Brian AUDENTES FORTUNA IUVAT 十人十色

1 December 2010, 08:17 AM	#21
conrail "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Boston Posts: 3,177	Looks great, thanks for the write up and great pictures! __________________ "Oh, you give a f****' aspirin a headache, pal!"

1 December 2010, 08:36 AM	#23
Dan Pierce 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Real Name: D'OH! Location: Kentucky Watch: Rolex-1 Tudor-3 Posts: 36,098	Picture perfect, Larry. Well done! dP __________________ TRF Member# 1668 Bass Player in TRF "AFTER DARK" Bar & NightClub Band Commander-in-Chief of The Nylon Nation The Crown & Shield Club Honorary Member of P-Club

1 December 2010, 09:48 AM	#24
jmsrolls Banned Join Date: May 2008 Location: USA Posts: 3,185	Looks good, Larry! As you know, I tried one of his Gen I backs on my EXPII but the dimensions changed the way the watch sat on my wrist so I put the steel back on. I also ordered one of his display backs for my Omega SMP and he sent me the wrong size (mid-size). Eventually he sent the correct back but the edge-to-edge diameter was .5mm too large which prevented the back from screwing all the way down for a seal. Fortunately my watchmaker was able to machine the edge down and make it fit. (The machining cost me an extra $50.) I hope someone will install a Gen II on an EXPII and provide measurements for a comparison with the OEM. Fr. John†

1 December 2010, 09:52 AM	#25
xjeeunitx 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Posts: 5,438	This is very cool and tempting!

1 December 2010, 10:06 AM	#26
HL65 TRF Moderator & 2024 SUBMARINER Patron Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: Ken Location: SW Florida Watch: One on my wrist. Posts: 63,931	Very cool Larry!!! Great review! __________________ *SPEM SUCCESSUS ALIT*

1 December 2010, 10:41 AM	#27
globalmedia33 "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Real Name: Thien Location: Frisco,TX/Saigon Watch: All Rolex Posts: 2,754	Very nice. Thanks for sharing Larry.... __________________ Sub. 5513 116710LN 116610LV “I THINK PERFECTION IS UGLY. SOMEWHERE IN THE THINGS HUMANS MAKE, I WANT TO SEE SCARS, FAILURE, DISORDER AND DISTORTION" - YOHJI YAMAMOTO

1 December 2010, 10:49 AM	#28
rfknauss 2024 ROLEX SUBMARINER 41 Pledge Member Join Date: Nov 2009 Real Name: Richard Location: Macungie, PA Watch: 5513 Sub, LV Sub Posts: 14,496	Awesome Larry ..... thank you for sharing! __________________ *"Few things in life give man as great a pleasure as wearing a Rolex!"* TRF's "AFTER DARK" Bar & NightClub Patron

1 December 2010, 10:58 AM	#29
sleddog TRF Moderator & 2024 SUBMARINER Patron Join Date: Jul 2007 Real Name: Rob Location: Nearby. Posts: 24,927	A great post Larry!! __________________ He who wears a Rolex is always on time, even when late!! TRF's "After Dark" Bar & Nightclub Patron-Founding Member..

1 December 2010, 11:47 AM	#30
Latrodectus 2024 ROLEX SUBMARINER 41 Pledge Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Real Name: Fred Location: KY, USA Watch: GMT-Master II Posts: 10,029	Very beautiful, Larry. I want one too! __________________ Member # 16057 4-Hands Club Tosser Club Member TRF Skypers Group

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