DIY Exploded Mechanical Watch Model

Inspired by interactive exploded watch illustrations, the author aimed to create a tangible resin model of a mechanical watch movement.

Early resin casting (layered UV and two-part epoxy) faced issues: yellow tint, slow cure, visible seams due to refractive index differences.

Switched to suspending components on monofilament fishing line (nylon leader) with CA glue, matching resin’s refractive index and providing near-invisible support.

Pulse vacuum chambers and pressure techniques effectively removed trapped bubbles; optimized resin mixing involved degassing both in container and mold.

Iterative prototypes introduced tools: silicone molds, borosilicate cylinders, lab jack for precise alignment, magnetic tweezers, CA accelerator, and clear spray lacquer to seal painted surfaces.

Prototype 3 showcased a fully suspended balance assembly by casting the model upside-down, highlighting the delicate hairspring.

Prototype 4 tackled an ETA-2824 clone (PT5000) movement; challenges included paint dissolution on date rings and mold size limits in vacuum chamber.

Final method combined sealed painted surfaces, standardized fishing line jig, stable mold design, and careful vacuum casting to produce a solid, clear exploded watch model.