How to Fit Plastic Watch Crystals
A watch crystal is the part of a watch that lies over the face to protect it. When fit properly, the watch crystal should keep out dirt and moisture. Upper-scale watches usually have sapphire crystals, while lower-end watches often have plastic crystals. When a plastic crystal scratches or breaks, it needs to be replaced. It's important to buy the correct size replacement for your watch brand and model to ensure a proper fit.
Instructions
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1
Remove the back of the watch by prying it off with a screwdriver. This will expose the battery area and the inner mechanics of the watch.
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2
Detach the stem, then tap the watch on a table to remove the interior parts of the watch. All of the mechanics and face of the watch are connected, so they should pop right out. You should be left with the shell of the watch. This includes the band and the plastic watch crystal.
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3
Wipe out any dirt and grime from the inside of the watch housing using a clean rag. The watch housing must be clean before you install the new plastic crystal.
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4
Remove the cracked or scratched plastic watch crystal. First, try to pop it out with your fingers. If this doesn't work, you'll need to use a crystal lift, which is a device used to remove a watch crystal from a watch enclosure. Place the watch enclosure on the crystal lift platform, with the crystal lined up with the circle on the platform, then pull down on the lever. Your watch crystal should now be separated from the watch enclosure.
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Take your new plastic crystal and push it into place. Apply a thin, even layer of jeweler's epoxy around the inside rim of the crystal. Wait 12 hours for the epoxy to completely dry.
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6
Insert the watch mechanics, which should pop right in without any pressure. Check the position of the numbers on the face before replacing the back of the watch.
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Press the back of the watch into place. It should close easily.
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Tips & Warnings
If you can't find a crystal in the right size, you can get a slightly larger one and sand it down.
You can purchase a crystal lift from a jewelry supply store.
