## Overview Custom Casio watches primarily involve modding affordable Casio models like the F91W, AE1200 (often called "Royale"), and WS1600. These mods typically include custom bezels, color filters, bands, text removal, weathering effects, and metal accents to create unique, stylish timepieces. There are two main paths to get started: purchasing pre-made or custom builds from specialists, or doing DIY modding. Key sources: - **Commercial Site**: Nocturnal Time (https://www.nocturnaltime.com/) – A dedicated shop for hand-modded Casio watches. - **DIY Tutorial**: YouTube video on F91W modding (https://youtu.be/xIh4_dp_CY0?si=RbFrnZslUvG946dF) – Provides a step-by-step visual guide. - **Community Resources**: Reddit communities like r/casiomods and r/casio have guides (e.g., "A Full Guide to Completing Your First Casio" on r/casiomods and "Casio Modules Guide" on r/casio), but access was restricted (403 error). Search these subreddits directly for user-shared tips, tools lists, and part suppliers. No vault-specific notes were searched (@vault not mentioned), so this is based on web and video content. ## Commercial Options: Buying Custom Builds If you're new to this, starting with a professional mod is the easiest way. Nocturnal Time specializes in custom Casio builds, modding them by hand. They offer: ### Popular Models and Prices - **AE1200 (Royale)**: Digital watch with world time, often modded with color schemes, text removal, and custom bands. Examples: - "Nuke" (black/green accents): $135 - "Sunset" (orange tones): $135 - "Horizon" (blue gradients): $135 - "Ghost" (negative display): $135 - "Apollo" (moon/glow effects): $135 - "Miami Vice" (pink/blue): $105 - Custom "My Build": Starts at $125 (choose colors, graphics, bands) - **F91W**: Compact digital watch, popular for minimalist mods. - "Wraith": $135 - "Raven": $120 - **WS1600**: Analog-digital hybrid with more features. - "Incognito" (hacker theme): $145 - "Obsidian": $135 - "Viper": $135 - Custom "My Build": Starts at $125 ### How to Get Started with Nocturnal Time 1. Visit https://www.nocturnaltime.com/shop for pre-made options. Filter by category (All, F91W, AE1200, WS1600). 2. For customs: Use the "My Build" pages (e.g., https://www.nocturnaltime.com/home/p/custom-build/ae1200 for Royale). Select bezel color, band (resin, stainless steel, etc.), weathering, and graphics. 3. International buyers: Shop via Etsy (https://nocturnaltime.etsy.com/). 4. Contact: Use the site's form for custom requests (e.g., specific themes not listed). They emphasize "If it can be built, I’ll build it." 5. Policies: Check FAQs (https://www.nocturnaltime.com/faqs-return-policy) and Terms (https://www.nocturnaltime.com/terms-of-service). Shipping is US-based; international via Etsy. 6. Social: Follow @nocturnal_time on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram for inspiration and updates. Pros: Professional quality, no tools needed, warranties. Cons: Costs $105–$145+. ## DIY How-To: Modding Your Own Casio Watch For hands-on starters, focus on simple models like the F91W (cheap at ~$15 stock). The YouTube tutorial (linked above) from "Origin Case" covers a full F91W mod in ~10 minutes. It demonstrates three styles: blue tint, yellow (DW5030-inspired), and metal mesh. Tools needed: Small screwdriver, gloves, double-sided tape, sharp tool for prying, optional metal mesh (from B5000 or AliExpress/eBay). ### Step-by-Step Guide (Based on F91W Tutorial) 1. **Prep**: Buy a stock Casio F91W. Wear gloves to avoid fingerprints/oils. Work on a soft mat to prevent scratches. 2. **Disassemble**: - Remove the 4 back screws with a small screwdriver. - Gently pry off the back cover and lift out the module (main board). - Reattach the back loosely to keep dust out. 3. **Remove Module Cover**: - Use a sharp tool to lift the metal cover over the LCD screen. - Extract the motherboard and battery. Peel off any conductive adhesive (save for reassembly). 4. **Add Custom Elements** (Core Modding): - **Metal Mesh Accent** (for premium look): Source a rare B5000 mesh piece (available on Etsy soon per video). Trim to fit the F91W screen edges (snug, no overlap). This adds elegance. - **Color Filter**: Cut a flexible tinted film (e.g., blue, yellow) to cover the LCD. Choose based on desired vibe (clean blue is popular). - **Band/Case Mods**: Swap resin band for metal or custom. Add weathering (distress effects) or text removal if advanced. 5. **Reassemble**: - Apply small double-sided tape pieces inside the case (avoid screen visibility). - Press the color filter/mesh into place. - Reinsert motherboard, battery, and module. - Secure the cover and screws. Test functionality (time, alarms). 6. **Finishing Touches**: Clean fingerprints. For advanced mods (e.g., AE1200), add glow-in-dark elements or custom graphics (see Nocturnal Time images for ideas). ### Tips for Beginners - **Tools/Parts Sources**: AliExpress, eBay, or Amazon for bezels (~$5–20), bands ($10), tints ($5). Watch suppliers like Esslinger for screws/batteries. - **Time/Skill**: 30–60 minutes for basic mod. Start simple to avoid damaging the module (water-resistant but fragile). - **Safety**: Avoid over-tightening screws. Test after each step. - **Inspiration**: Browse Nocturnal Time images (e.g., ![[Nuke+W+Si.png]] from their site) for color combos. Join r/casiomods for troubleshooting. - **Common Mods**: Text removal (peel logos), negative displays (invert colors), tritium tubes for glow (advanced). Pros: Cheap, customizable. Cons: Risk of breaking watch; learning curve. ## Next Steps and Links - **Buy Stock Watch**: Amazon/eBay for F91W/AE1200 (~$15–30). - **Learn More**: Watch the full YouTube tutorial. Search "Casio Royale mod tutorial" for AE1200 specifics. - **Community**: r/casiomods, r/casio – Post your build for feedback. - **Custom Request**: If DIY isn't for you, message Nocturnal Time. This covers the essentials from available sources. If you have a specific model or style in mind, provide more details for tailored advice!