Seiko SKX007 Mod – Blacked-Out NH35 Build by Elliot Coll
This post documents a fully blacked-out Seiko SKX007 mod built around the NH35 automatic movement by watch modder Elliot Coll.
The build explores a restrained, monochrome aesthetic paired with a clean and methodical assembly process, showing how accessible parts can be used to create a cohesive custom watch.
What makes this project especially interesting is that every major component was sourced from AliExpress, with careful selection and clear intent behind each choice.
Build by: Elliot Coll
Featured here with independent editorial context.
Project Overview
- Base platform: Seiko SKX007–style build
- Movement: Seiko NH35 automatic (black date wheel)
- Case: Black gunmetal SKX007 case
- Crown position: 3 o’clock
- Dial: Black dial with fish-scale pattern
- Indices: Black indices with black lume
- Hands: Black arrow-style hands with black lume
- Bezel insert: Black 60-minute insert
- Chapter ring: Black with white 60-minute markings
- Rotor: Custom black rotor with decorative pattern
- Bracelet: Black gunmetal bracelet
The use of a black date wheel on the NH35 is a subtle but important detail, maintaining visual consistency and avoiding the common white-date contrast seen in many mod builds.
Parts Used (AliExpress)
All primary components in this build were sourced from AliExpress. Links below are provided for reference and transparency.
- Case:
https://he.aliexpress.com/item/1005009372537968.html - Dial:
https://he.aliexpress.com/item/1005007635682970.html - Hands:
https://he.aliexpress.com/item/1005007999843116.html - Movement (NH35, black date):
https://he.aliexpress.com/item/1005006676090692.html - Rotor:
https://he.aliexpress.com/item/1005009515257147.html
Note: These links appear to be affiliate links used by the original creator.
Design & Visual Balance
Despite the fully blacked-out palette, the watch avoids looking flat. Texture plays a key role here — most notably through the fish-scale dial pattern, which adds depth without introducing additional color.
The white markings on the chapter ring provide just enough contrast to anchor the design, while the black lume on the hands and indices reinforces the cohesive, stealth-focused aesthetic.
This is a build that relies on restraint rather than visual excess.
Assembly Technique & Builder Approach
One aspect that stands out in Elliot’s work is his hand-setting technique. He uses Rodico extensively during the placement of each hand, prioritizing control and stability throughout the process.
While other builders may prefer placing and pressing hands directly — using Rodico mainly for the seconds hand — Elliot’s method reflects a careful, deliberate workflow. It’s a valid and effective approach, especially when precision and alignment are the priority.
As with most craft-based work, there is more than one correct technique, and Elliot’s results speak for themselves.
Execution & Cleanliness
The build process remains clean, controlled, and consistent from start to finish. Parts are handled carefully, alignment is precise, and no shortcuts are visible. The end result feels intentional rather than rushed — a key factor in successful modding projects built from off-the-shelf components.
Final Thoughts on This Seiko SKX007 Mod
This Seiko SKX007 mod shows how a well-defined concept, disciplined assembly, and thoughtful component selection can come together into a cohesive custom watch. Built entirely from readily available parts, it highlights the creative potential of modern watch modding and demonstrates that strong results are driven by execution rather than price or exclusivity.
