How to use in a watch
6152 How to build stage 1
Important: Before we start its important to understand that the 6152 Case is very close to the shape we want to achieve. Therefore you should only be taking small amounts of metal off the case. NEVER take large amounts of metal from an area.
Why shape the case? This is how the authentic Panerai 6152 Cases were made back in the early 1950’s in fact some of the worlds most expensive watches are still finished this way today, its called Hand Finishing. The machinery used back in the 1940/50’s produced a 6152 Case but in order to completely finished the watch case a small team of “finishers” would shape some of the sharp edges and then polish the case. This made the case a little more comfortable to wear and also nicer to look at.
Getting Started: The red arrows opposite show the areas I will be targeting. These areas do not require a lot of metal removing so be careful. Take your time and remember, its better to take off less metal and correct it later than it is to take off too much metal.
6152 How to build stage 2
Lets start by smoothing the top surface of the case a little. I have started to file the top surface on the four corners so that they are smooth (see below)
6152 How to build stage 3
This stage requires the edges to be made smooth around the case.
6152 How to build stage 4
6152 How to build stage 5
I have added the image above for those that prefer to use the Dremel, This is one job were the Dremel is faster but the same results can be achieved with files. Just be careful not to touch the lugs if you are using the file.
6152 How to build stage 6
The front edge above the lugs is now nicely rounded and less shape that it was.
6152 How to build stage 7
Now go over the area you have filed with P400 wet and dry. Smooth the area until all the scratches have disappeared. If you have used the correct grade file (fine or medium) then this should only take a few minutes. Make sure all scratches are removed.
6152 How to build stage 8
The font top section of the case is now finished.
6152 How to build stage 9
This section shows how to shape the Lugs
Important: The 6152 has added metal to the top surface of the Lugs. This is so that you can shape the lugs to the desired dimensions, to give the “step” you see in the images opposite. Remember, try not to remove too much metal, if you want to remove more you can always do this later.
Below: I am going to use a small fine/medium flat file. Note the edge of the file, make sure that the smooth side is the side you use near the top surface of the case.
6152 How to build stage 10
This is the side you should NOT use. Keep this side away from the case