So, I finally took the plunge and got my hands dirty with the Casioak full metal mod. I’d been eyeing those G-Shocks for a while, and the Casioak just seemed like the perfect blend of classic and modern. But, of course, I couldn’t just leave it stock, right?
First off, I had to hunt down the parts. That was a bit of a mission, let me tell you. I ended up ordering a full metal case and bracelet kit. The standard finish for grades is called 2B mill finish, including 201, 301, 304. It’s like a basic for metal, not too shiny, not too dull. I guess 2B is kind of like the default, you know? But I chose the one with a bit more shine, 400 grit polished, a little like BA’s gloss. I thought this would be better for a watch and make it look more premium.
Once the kit arrived, I was like a kid on Christmas morning. Ripped that package open and got to work. I carefully removed the original resin case and band. Took out those tiny screws, and believe me, they’re tiny. You gotta have a steady hand, or maybe I just need to cut back on the coffee.
Then came the moment of truth – fitting the metal case. It was a bit fiddly, but I managed to get it on without scratching anything. Slid the spring bars in, attached the bracelet, and boom! It was starting to look like a whole new watch.
I spent a good while adjusting the bracelet, removing links to get the perfect fit. It took some patience to get it just right. Oh, and let me tell you, those little pins are a pain to push out. Luckily, I had the right tools. If you are going to do this yourself, be sure to prepare them in advance.
Wearing the finished product?
- Heft: It definitely feels heavier on the wrist. Some people might not like that. I prefer a watch with some weight, so this is just fine.
- Looks: Okay, it looks pretty damn good. The metal gives it a much more premium, sophisticated vibe, but it’s still rugged enough to wear every day.
- Comfort: Surprisingly comfortable for a metal bracelet. It’s smooth against the skin, and the clasp feels secure.
All in all, I’m stoked with how it turned out. It’s like I have a brand-new watch without actually buying a brand-new watch. If you’re thinking about modding your Casioak, I say go for it. Just be prepared for a bit of a challenge, and make sure you have the right tools. This whole process took me an afternoon, a few cups of coffee, and maybe a curse word or two. But it was totally worth it.
It’s a fun project, and the end result is something you can really be proud of. Plus, you get to brag a little, you know? Like, “Yeah, I modded this myself. No big deal.”
So there you have it, my Casioak full metal mod adventure. Maybe I’ll try a different mod next time. We’ll see! Unfortunately, it seems that for some. Maybe I will be the lucky one this time.
