I decided to change the strap on my MD-703-1AV from the cloth strap to the OEM Casio rubber band. Why? Well it is a divers watch and the way I look at it, the cloth strap just did not fit. So here are the photographs of the watch with its new rubber band.
The back.
Brothers in arms... :)
Hey, Ivan.
ReplyDeleteI've got the MD-703-1AV. It actually needs a case cleaning (as well as has some minor pitting) as you outlined in your last MD post.
It has the original band, but I am seriously thinking about a Bond or Skunk Bond. Why did you take yours off the cloth? Do you have pics? I live in Texas, where it's very hot, and I already have a Seiko Sawtooth on rubber. I think this watch with it's simple color scheme is a great candidate for a good NATO or Zulu.
Hi Justin,
ReplyDeleteThe MD-703-1AV is a nice piece. Wow, original band. Any pictures? Is the inside textured like some Seiko bands?
To clean the watch, remove the bands. Use a old toothbrush and mild soap. That will get rid of some of the grime that could be there. If you still want to clean further, toothbrush and toothpaste. But remember to wash with lots of water after. The abrasive nature of the toothpaste will clean most of the grime on the watch. As for the pitting, I don't know what to do with it. It does not distract me from the beauty of the watch and a little 'wabi' does give it some character.
I removed the cloth straps because I sweat a lot during summer and the cloth straps get wet. I don't like that. Also because it is a divers watch, I feel it should have a rubber band. I you look at the posting on the restoration of the MD-703-1AV, the last few photographs are of the watch with the cloth strap. The cloth strap is the same as on the Seiko 5 Sports Military Model: SNZG15K1
Additionally, good NATO or ZULU straps are hard to come by here in Taiwan. Most people here prefer leather straps.
Regards,
Ivan
Thanks for the info. I go back to the States tomorrow, and I'll try it then. The band isn't textured on the inside exactly, but there is a pattern to let air circulate. When I have the bands off for cleaning, I'll takes some pics for you.
ReplyDeleteThanks for reminding me about your cloth strap shots. I remembered shortly after I posted.
I'm sure the original gaskets are in the watch still. Do you think all that water involved with washing it is safe at this point?
-JB
Hi Justin,
ReplyDeleteIf in doubt bring it to a watch repairman. From my experience, although the original o-ring/ gasket are still in the watch, it will provide some water resistance. As long as there is no temperature difference in the water or water vapour, you should be ok. Don't wash the watch in hot water and bring it into an aircon room and vice versa.
I would get the o-rings changed, they don't cost much and will give you some comfort in knowing at least it is water resist, not to the 200 m rating. Hope that helps.
Have a safe flight.
Regards,
Ivan
Hey Ivan,
ReplyDeleteThe toothbrush worked great! Thanks, again. Also, I noticed in the pics above that your rubber straps are no different from my original one, for what it's worth.
I did go ahead and purchase a bond maratac zulu and a red stripe maratac zulu. When I get them, I'll take some shots and post them somewhere if either look particularly awesome.
Best,
Justin
Hi Justin,
ReplyDeleteGreat to know the toothbrush worked. Yes, please post the pictures of the watch on the Maratac straps. I wish I could get the straps here in Taiwan. Got a few watches begging to be fitted with the Maratac.
Regards,
Ivan
Hey Ivan,
ReplyDeleteI just put pics up on the dive watch forum at watchuseek if you want to check it out.
-JB
Hi Justin,
ReplyDeleteSeen the photos. Your watch looks good. I will go with the red stripe. Wear it with good health.
Regards,
Ivan
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