How to Change the Crystal on a Waterproof Watch Case
- 1). Open the back of the watch and slowly flip it over so the inside mechanisms of the watch drop into your hand. The mechanism should be in one piece. Put it carefully to the side for safekeeping. You should be left with the watch crystal and the attached straps.
- 2). Using a small cloth to protect the crystal, hold the watch upside down and apply moderate pressure with your thumb to the back of the crystal. This will dislodge crystals that are fitted into the watch with a gasket or tension ring. Some crystals that have been glued also will be removed using this method. If the crystal does not press out with your hand tension, a watch press or crystal press will be required. In those cases, it is better to take the watch to a professional.
- 3). Determine the type and size of crystal you'll need. Once the crystal is removed, you can accurately measure the size and construction of the crystal. Most watch repair shops will have a supply of generic crystals, and that might be close enough to work with your watch. But in the case of some older or more exotic models, you may need to order a replacement online.
- 4). Cup the watch upside down in your hand and carefully place the crystal in the watch. Place a small cloth on the back of the crystal and use your thumb to firmly push the crystal into place. It the crystal seems slightly loose or will not stay firmly in the watch, you will need to use a crystal adhesive or jewelers' epoxy.
- 5). Test the crystal to make sure it is seated properly by pushing very slightly on the front side of the crystal.
- 6). Flip the watch upside down in your palm or on a work table top and carefully insert the inner watch workings you removed at the beginning of the process. Once they are correctly in place, attach the back of the watch.
