do watchmakers have a special tool for

[larryccf]

installing stubborn or tight bezel inserts?

when my snowie came back and i went to change out the rolex svc insert to put that slight faded NOS insert, it wouldn't install into the rolex svc bezel - watchmaker had said the bezel was a little tight

so i installled it in a old 7928 bezel i had picked up, but would rather use the rolex svc bezel on this snowie. I tried shaving the insert a little, on it's edges with a razor knife, and using a little silicone oil but i can't get the NOS insert into the svc bezel - and don't want to bend it.

i'm hoping they've got some sort of press like they use for crystals, etc

anyone?

[bondtoys]

after reading the shaving and silicone oil part - I would suggest asking a qualified watchmaker.
They could use a crystal or bezel press or simply a table and 2 fingers.
Never heard of an insert, which didn't snap - when it was the correct size (plexi crystal watches vs. sapphire crystal watches).

[larryccf]

"...Never heard of an insert, which didn't snap ..."

i'm mechanically inclined but have only replaced a couple of inserts with no issue - usually took some patience but they'd pop in, per the vids online

this one i spent 20-25 minutes on two occasions, and each time quit cause i was hitting that frustation point and didn't want to risk bending it

even putting the NOS insert into the 7928 bezel, it took some patience but did pop in.

[azguy]

I had a simular issue and ran a scotchbrite pad around the outside of the insert to shave just a hair off, to me it appeared the paint was the difference in making it fit.

I have herad about putting the insert in the freezer, I guess to make the metal contract a hair....

Good luck

[sweiger]

My watchmaker uses a special flat plier with protecting plastic applied to it. He places the insert in the bezel as much as he can with his fingers (wearing cotton gloves!). He then gently presses the last area of the insert (approx. 1/2 inch) to a 'click' with the plier.
I tried it myself, using a standard flat plier wrapped with gaffa. It works, but you have to be very careful not to bend or scratch the items.
Don't ask me if my heart was stopped during the process, but I think it was.

[larryccf]

basically when i say i "shaved" it with a knife, i drew the blade backwards as if to scrape it some, kinda like the scotchbrite pad approach

the freezer trick should help some more and the plier trick - i forgot i've got a pair of curved jaw pliers with plastic liners on them

saves me a trip to the watchmaker

appreciate the tips

[bondtoys]

Sorry again for running in, but removing the coating at the outside does not sound like a good idea to me.

The remaining coat will easier chip off plus it'll be more prone to (salt) water

I have installed hundreds of inserts over the year, never shaved, froze, brushed anything. Just used 2 fingers and a table