Swap Watch Crystals at Home: A Quick and Easy Guide
Changing a watch crystal—you’ve possibly never contemplated about it, and why should you? It’s not like the crystal on your watch spontaneously detaches. Well, it may shock you to discern that a watch crystal is one of the most prevalent elements on a watch that requires replacement. This could be due to scratches, cracks, or a specific desire for a new look. In this article, you’ll learn how to comfortably switch your watch crystal without leaving the comfort of your home.
To appreciate the full gist of what we’re about to explore, let’s understand the term. A watch crystal is the transparent piece that covers the dial of the watch. It serves to protect the intricate parts of your watch from dust, water, and damage. They commonly come in three types: acrylic, mineral glass, and sapphire.
Step-by-Step Instruction on How to Swap Watch Crystals at Home
1. Gather Your Tools:
Prepare the necessary tools for the process. These include a crystal lift or crystal press, gasket, tweezers, watchmaker’s screwdrivers, loupe, polishing cloth, glass/crystal glue if required, and of course, the replacement crystal.
2. Carefully Remove the Watch Band:
Utilize your spring bar tool to remove the band. Ensure you place the band in a secure location as you’ll need to re-attach it later.
3. Open the Watch Case:
Turn the watch over. You’ll notice a backplate. Utilize your case-back removal tool to detach this. In some instances, this backplate is secured by screws; you’ll want your screwdriver for this.
4. Extract the Watch Movement:
With the backplate off, the watch movement ought to be accessible. Utilize your tweezers to extract this carefully. Remember, watch parts are very delicate, and forcing anything can result in damage.
5. Disconnect the Broken Crystal:
If your watch entails a gasket, you’ll see it when you extract the current crystal. Put the watch case into your crystal lift or press and align the arms to the edges of the crystal. Tighten gradually and the crystal should lift out. If your watch doesn’t have a gasket, you might need to gently heat the watch case to loosen glue before gently prying out the crystal.
6. Install the New Crystal:
Secure the replacement crystal in the crystal lift, gasket side up, if there is one. Lower it into the watch case. Loosen the lift or press slowly, allowing the crystal to drop into the case. If required, add crystal glue around the edge. Be careful not to apply too much.
7. Reassemble the Watch
Once the crystal is firmly in place, reassemble your watch in reverse order. Save a little moment to admire your work before re-attaching the band.
Swapping your crystal at home is that straight forward. While some prefer seeking professional assistance to change their watch crystal, the entire process is quite more accessible and cost-effective when you opt to Do It Yourself. It also enables you to fully commit to the aesthetic features of your timepiece by selecting a crystal that directly compliments your style.
It’s significant to note that while acrylic crystals are inexpensive and less likely to shatter upon impact, they’re more prone to scratches. Sapphire crystals are exceptionally scratch resistant but can shatter easily. You’ll therefore want to select your replacement crystal carefully, bearing in mind your regular activities and the conditions your watch will be exposed to.
Although you now possess the knowledge on DIY watch crystal replacement, it’s essential to remember that nailing the actual task at hand might take some practice. It’s always best to start with a low-value watch for practicing before tackling your premium timepieces.
Similarly, patience is the watchword of the do-it-yourselfers trade. While the procedure sounds simple, many workbenches have been hastily cleared in frustration. If it doesn’t fit, don’t force it. Instead, reassess your approach and modify your technique.
Lastly, relish in the thrill that comes with mastering a new skill and truly owning your timepiece. Once you’ve mastered how to swap crystals, you may realize that you’re now more attached to understanding other areas of watch maintenance. You’re now part of the elite group of watch enthusiasts who take active roles in their watch’s life and upkeep.
So, the next time your watch crystal gets smashed, scratched, or just doesn’t have that desired look anymore, you now hold the capacity to rectify it without dispatching the timepiece for a long service trip. Dive in, swap those crystals, and create an evolved personal watch that mirrors your exceptional style. Enjoy every tick, after all, time is all yours.
