Real Seiko Mods vs. Fake Seiko Mods: The Ultimate Guide

Seiko mods have created a fascinating community of watch enthusiasts as they make it possible to personalize and make unique watches. However, the wonderful world of timepiece customization is tarnished by the democratization of fake Seiko mods created by individuals motivated by profit rather than passion. With their mouth-watering prices and astonishingly low production costs, these fakes may seem like bargains at first glance. However, they fail the tests of durability, quality, and often even basic water resistance. This article aims to provide you with the knowledge you need to navigate into the world of Seiko mods, focusing on understanding OEM parts, aftermarket parts, and the key indicators of fakes. With the correct information, you can make informed decisions, ensuring the integrity of your collections and the longevity of your cherished timepieces.

Understanding OEM and Aftermarket Parts

• OEM  (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are manufactured by the watch's original manufacturer. In the case of Seiko mods, OEM parts are created by Seiko.
• Aftermarket parts are produced by suppliers not affiliated with Seiko who offer a wider range of customization options and are often of even higher quality than Seiko. Used to create high-quality mods, here is a non exhaustive list of trusted suppliers: namokiMODS, Lucius Atelier, Watch and Style, DLW Watches, etc...

The Case of 'Feikos' and Misleading Designs

Fake Seiko mod, called as "Feikos," are famous for their poor quality and lack of durability.
Arabic dials are often a sing that a mod is fake. However, genuine Seiko models such as the SNKP21, SNK063, SRPH50, SNKP22, SRPH49, feature Arabic dials and are authentic. For example, I'm selling a mod with a dial from an SNKP21J1 or others with Arabic dials made by Namoki.

A practice has emerged in which iconic desing from luxury brands, such as Royal Oak, Daytona, Nautilus, Santos, etc... are poorly copied by replacing their original logo with a Seiko logo. Seiko has never copied a luxury watch design. Adding a Seiko logo to such desings is a fraudulent tactic often employed in the creation of counterfeit items, deceiving consumers into believing they are acquiring a legitimate Seiko model.

The Risks of Counterfeit Mods

Selling fake Seiko mods is ILLEGAL. Counterfeiting damages brand reputation and fools consumers. It is essential that sellers guarantee the authenticity of their parts to avoid legal consequences. 

Ensuring Authenticity: A Checklist 

1. Check the documentation
2. Check the seller reputation
3. Beware of too-good-to-be-true prices
4. Check the build quality

Conclusion

Genuine Seiko mods, whether using OEM or reputable aftermarket parts, are known for their durability, precision and adherence to the brand's high standards. On the other hand, fake Seiko mods are of mediocre quality, characterized by poor workmanship, unreliable performance and lack of durability. These fakes, while initially appearing to be a bargain, fall short in longevity, often failing to meet basic standards like water resistance.

When looking for authentic mods, consider modders like RFMODS, where passion for horology and craftsmanship ensures each piece is authentic and of high quality.