Experience with aftermarket crystals?

[yshia]

Does anybody have any experience using an aftermarket Rolex crystal for the Submariner? I would like to do an cyclop-less mod for my SubC and I've been looking for a crystal. Unfortunately, getting a Rolex crystal is very expensive and somewhat difficult, especially compared to the aftermarket offerings.

Rolex doesn't exactly use any voodoo to make their crystal special and sapphire isn't exactly an exotic material, so on paper, an aftermarket crystal should be fine.

That being said, I would like to double check, does anybody have any insight on this matter?

[sco]

I'd look for a 114060 crystal instead

[Furbo]

Use original crystal from subc-no date - or follow your logic :)

[yshia]

One problem with getting a no date Sub crystal is that it's expensive and difficult to find. Which is why I'm looking at the aftermarket alternatives.

[Wesley Crusher]

Originally Posted by yshia

One problem with getting a no date Sub crystal is that it's expensive and difficult to find. Which is why I'm looking at the aftermarket alternatives.

Contact a well known watchmaker. He/she may be able to source an authentic crystal for you. It will be expensive, but worth it. Don't cheap out on such a nice watch.

[dricig]

Can't a good watchmaker remove the cyclops from your original crystal?

dave

[Jocke]

I will never put a aftermarket crystal on a Rolex, use a genuine one or pass IMHO.

It cost more to repair a waterdamaged movement.

[joe100]

The crystal is integral to the water resistance. Either do it right or don't do it at all.

Because in 6 weeks your next thread will be: "There is condensation in my Sub"

Rolex+Aftermarket=Heartbreak

[powerfunk]

Originally Posted by yshia

Does anybody have any experience using an aftermarket Rolex crystal for the Submariner? I would like to do an cyclop-less mod for my SubC and I've been looking for a crystal. Unfortunately, getting a Rolex crystal is very expensive and somewhat difficult, especially compared to the aftermarket offerings.

Rolex doesn't exactly use any voodoo to make their crystal special and sapphire isn't exactly an exotic material, so on paper, an aftermarket crystal should be fine.

That being said, I would like to double check, does anybody have any insight on this matter?

Originally Posted by dricig

Can't a good watchmaker remove the cyclops from your original crystal?

dave

Yeah, I'd recommend this over an aftermarket crystal. Or try it yourself: http://watchmakingblog.com/2008/04/23/cyclops-removal/

[Jocke]

Originally Posted by powerfunk

Yeah, I'd recommend this over an aftermarket crystal. Or try it yourself: http://watchmakingblog.com/2008/04/23/cyclops-removal/

I try that on one of my DateJust´s.

I start with my cyclop remover kit.



Pull it up in my full size Bergeon case holder.



And start the work.



Damn, Rolex have quality glue so I have to warm it up a bit.



Now I hope it will come off.



Ouups, not so good.



What do you think, did I have to change crystal? Or can it
be polished?

[ExplorerChris]

No way in hell would I trust a aftermarket crystal
You're just asking for condensation to show up inside the watch
If inot having a cyclops is something you really want then save your pennies and do it the right way
That little extra added cost is known as peace of mind

[Ishy]

Originally Posted by Jocke

I try that on one of my DateJust´s.

I start with my cyclop remover kit.

Not gonna lie, I lol'd.

[locutus49]

Basically you want to create a Franken-Rolex. No offense intended.

I would check with some of the TRF sellers to source an official crystal, and spend the extra money. But, honestly, I would keep the crystal that matches the model. Or trade the watch for a no-date if the cyclops bothers you.