This light spreader replaces the original to create an even glow that makes the backlight much more pleasant and easier to use. The backlight LED is not modified, this mod simply distributes its light more effectively!
- NO SOLDERING or electronics work necessary - simply disassemble, place the components into the watch, and reassemble.
- No modification to the LCD films required. The appearance of the LCD is not changed.
- No reduction to the 7 year battery rating as with other LED replacement, dual-LED mods, or the a700 module swap.
- Much cheaper than buying the a700 for a module swap.
Known compatible models:
Module 593 (F91W, A158, A159, A171W, F84W, Sensor Watch, and more)
Module 590 (W-59)
Module 1071 (F94W)
Each set contains 1 plastic light spreader and 1 piece of backing. The backing is essential to the function of the light spreader, and if it is damaged you can cut one from any white paper. You can even put a graphic on it and it will show up in the backlight.
Light spreader variants:
V1: The very first version of the light spreader, and some similarly performing mid-grade v2 prototypes that are not as even as the high grade v2 ones. Does not work in oil at all.
V2: The latest version of the light spreader. It is brighter and more evenly lit than V1. Does not work in oil at all.
Oil Compatible: This version of the light spreader works in oil. It is not as bright or as evenly lit as the standard v1 or v2 in air. Development is ongoing. This is intended for someone who wants to improve the backlight in their hydro-mod build.
Backing variants:
Paper: Basic material, not compatible with oil.
Lumed Green: A piece of luminous material that will allow you to read the watch in pitch dark for about an hour without using the LED light. You can improve its performance by charging the luminous material with a bright flashlight or holding it next to a light bulb for 10 seconds. The effect is quite subtle and will not be visible if your eyes have not dark adapted. Install this in the place of the paper with the matte side facing front.
ESR Film: This mirrored film material will reflect 98% of light and looks about 10% brighter than paper backing. Peel the yellow protective film to expose the mirrored surface before installing. This causes the backlight to show an illusion of depth because you will be looking into a mirror. The light is not as diffuse as paper or lumed green backing.
Shipping:
For countries with trustworthy postal systems: Canada, USA, European Union, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, Japan, Israel, Switzerland, South Korea, Taiwan, Turkey: Letter-mail (untracked, uninsured) is available for small value orders. It is the cheapest and fastest shipping method. You may choose "Trusted Country Small Packet Air Upgrade" if you are in the above trusted countries and want to pay more for insurance in case of non-delivery using Etsy's Purchase Protection Program. You may choose "Canada Tracking Upgrade" or "USA Tracking Upgrade" or "Trusted Country Tracking Upgrade" if you want tracking on your order.
All other countries: Standard shipping will be Small Packet Air (untracked, insured) by default. You will be eligible for Etsy's Purchase Protection Program for full refund in case of non-delivery. You may also choose "Untrusted Country Tracking Upgrade" to add tracking on your order.
Installation:
FULL VIDEO TUTORIAL: https://youtu.be/s5IYBeU6_m8
1) Disassemble the watch until the LCD assembly can be removed from the white module frame. Be careful handling the LCD since the plastic polarizer on the front is very soft and easily scratched, never place the LCD face down. Ideally, work in a clean environment and wear nitrile gloves to avoid leaving skin grease on the parts. Do not touch the inside of the watch crystal and leave it face down so dust does not land on it, as it is very difficult to clean without damaging. A bulb blower will remove dust, cotton swab will remove grease, and air ionizer will neutralize static so the dust can be blown off.
2) Remove and DISCARD the original white plastic light spreader located behind the LCD. It is no longer needed.
3) Place the included rectangular backing into the module frame. Ensure that the cleanest side of the paper is facing outward, or the matte side of the lumed backing is facing outward.
4) Place the new light spreader into the frame. Ensure that the pitted side is facing down towards the backing, away from the LCD. The notch of the light spreader will go where the LED goes, at 9 o'clock.
5) Reinstall the LCD glass assembly, making sure not to push the light spreader out of its groove in the frame. Stretch the bottom tab of the LCD holder on the module frame out of plane, towards the face of the watch, to hook the LCD securely. There will be some tension as the new light spreader and backing is slightly thicker than the original. Ensure that the light spreader does not shift towards 12 o'clock during installation and block the gap for the zebra strip.
6) Reinstall the zebra strip, the electronics board, and the metal back clip. Take your time to inspect and clean each part while reinstalling. My preferred method is to stick any dust off with masking tape. Ensure the pushers are seated correctly, clean and reinstall the gasket, then finally the backplate and screws. Take care not to overtighten and strip the screws.
Message me if you need help!
*****If you are combining mods or otherwise deviating from my installation instructions in any way not mentioned here, it is in your best interest to message me first and ask about compatibility*****
Premade is available: A brand new watch can be modded by my expert hand and shipped to you. Price will vary due to shipping and the new purchase price of the model you want modded. Please message me.
