submariner bezel

[schumicat]

I have a 5513 stainless Submariner that has been in my family since new in 1986. I've owned since 1992. This is the old style bezel that doesn't use a spring. On a few occassions over the years, the bezel came off when it got caught on an edge. It would snap back on. However this year it happened again for the first time in many years. The original bezel was lost. I have tried 2 replacement bezels for 5513 now with brand new tension rings for 5513 and the bezels will not snap on (bezels have some play). I am 99% sure they are the correct bezels and tension rings. Is it possible the retaining ring (that goes around the crystal) is so worn it will not accept the new bezel? That is the only possibility I can think of, other than a very remote chance that there is some defect in the replacement bezels. Thanks

[Zoran]

Hi,
If you replace the bezel and tension ring with new ones, it should be tight as new again.
It's the combination of both that secures the bezel back to the way it was when new.
At least it was in my case...

Good luck!

[Gliderguy]

I had the same problem with my 5513. Stopped by RSC in Buenos Aires and they fixed it with a special tool that takes it back to tolerance. 10 minutes and free of charge.

[omitohud]

Rolex 1006 tool


I blame it on the autoconnect.

[schumicat]

thanks guys. I got an aftermarket retaining ring and the bezel snapped right on. It is not perfect though, as it is too tight to turn if I use the tension spring. So I temporarily have bezel on without the tension sprng so I can wear it. I will take it to a proper Rolex service place at some point to get the original retaining ring brought back in spec. It needs a new crystal and is overdue for service anyway.

I'm happy to be able to wear the watch again for first time since June. I have worn it most days since Dec. 1992. It was my dad's and he gave it to me for college graduation. He got it as a present from my mom in 1986. She paid around $600 for it at the military base exchange. The date model cost less than $100 more at the time.

photo attached. for a number of years I've preferred nylon strap (first Bond, then black, now grey).

[Etschell]

Originally Posted by schumicat

thanks guys. I got an aftermarket retaining ring and the bezel snapped right on. It is not perfect though, as it is too tight to turn if I use the tension spring. So I temporarily have bezel on without the tension sprng so I can wear it. I will take it to a proper Rolex service place at some point to get the original retaining ring brought back in spec. It needs a new crystal and is overdue for service anyway.

I'm happy to be able to wear the watch again for first time since June. I have worn it most days since Dec. 1992. It was my dad's and he gave it to me for college graduation. He got it as a present from my mom in 1986. She paid around $600 for it at the military base exchange. The date model cost less than $100 more at the time.

photo attached. for a number of years I've preferred nylon strap (first Bond, then black, now grey).

when you take it get a new plexi as well, it wont cost much but make a huge difference.