How to Easily Remove a Watch Bezel

This video looks at tips and tools to easily remove most rotating watch bezels.
Find me on Instagram: / jonathan_t_reviews
If you'd like to collaborate on a review, my email is: [e-mail]
Tools in Video (may not be the exact items in the video, but are the same style based on what I could find):
Pry Bar - amzn.to/3z18PUm
Masking Tape - amzn.to/2N5w6gq
Microfiber Clothes - amzn.to/3ddXx2o
I did not receive compensation or sponsorship for filming this video. The statements contained within are only my opinion. This video is offered for informational purposes only.
Included Amazon links are affiliate links and may qualify for compensation. Using these links helps to support the channel (even if you buy different items), doesn't cost you anything, and is greatly appreciated!

[@JonathanTReviews]

Looking to make any purchases on Amazon? You can help support the channel FOR FREE by using my affiliate link: amzn.to/3O0xqM7 Using this link may earn a small commission for any items purchased, not just the one linked. Thanks for the support!

[@DwreckJ]

Thank you for uploading!! Best example of how to do this that I can find

[@JonathanTReviews]

My pleasure! Cheers

[@daynevickers1079]

Really appreciate this video, would have never thought about using the tool you used! it gave me the courage to try and swap bezels on two watches with identical cases but different bezels. Wish me luck!

[@JonathanTReviews]

My pleasure! Best of luck, I hope it goes smoothly! Cheers

[@penguincustard1]

Perfect, just did mine in a few minutes with this video on in the background.

[@JonathanTReviews]

Awesome! I'm glad it helped. Cheers

[@stoehr]

I just got an email back from Elshan. He’s sending a new bezel for my Spearfish cos the “20” on the bezel has way less lume than any other lumed part on the watch (must’ve got left out of a layer or more). Much needed video. Thank you!

[@JonathanTReviews]

Happy I could help! Elshan is legendary for customer service. Best of luck with the swap! Cheers

[@jasonnowakowski393]

Awsome been meaning to change the besil on my omega

[@JonathanTReviews]

I hope it helps! Cheers

[@denbou00]

Is super very professional

[@JonathanTReviews]

Thank you! Cheers

[@luisdias5355]

Good work

[@JonathanTReviews]

Thank you very much! Cheers

[@khronokraze]

I used to have a tool I made out of HDPE. Just custom cut and sanded down one end to a good smooth blade to slip into tight spaces. Used it to help pry apart Auto parts without, or at least greatly reduce, chance of surface damage.

[@JonathanTReviews]

Excellent. Sounds like a very similar approach and tool. Cheers

[@carlosgonzalez7204]

That’s a great idea, a plastic pry tool seems better. I tried it on a diver watch but with a metal tool and I scratched the heck out of my watch. Have you tried this on any other watches?

[@JonathanTReviews]

I'm glad it was helpful! Unfortunately it's really tough not to get some marks with case knives in my experience. Yes, while this may not work with really tight bezels or ones with different mounting methods, this approach does work on many others.

[@aminreviews2311]

Thanks, Jonathan! By any chance, do you know if the bezel insert on a Zelos Swordfish is friction fit or uses adhesive?

[@JonathanTReviews]

I'm not certain, but I'm fairly sure it's adhesive. Elshan should be able to confirm. Cheers!

[@rosstisbury1626]

Cheers

[@JonathanTReviews]

Back at you 🥂

[@CG-ql5rr]

Great video,can you put another bezel insert on these Makos? I know for seikos are tonnes on ebay,but for a "boutique" watch like this one can we find any?

[@JonathanTReviews]

Thank you! I'm unaware of any aftermarket bezel inserts made for this model, but it may be possible to find one with the same dimensions. All of the swaps I have seen have been between two watches the person owned or by trading with another owner. If you're not already subscribed, I'll be bringing new content regularly :) Cheers

[@charleshailey4461]

Jonathan, this is great! Do you know where to get replacement bezels for the Mako? Looks like it is 38 x 31.5, but that is a standard SKX size and those bezels are all flat. This one seems to be angled slightly (like most non Seiko bezels). I have the black on black and I'd love a dark blue bezel for my Mako. (P.S. tried this on several watches, worked on about 50% of them - some pop off, some are on there super tight).

[@JonathanTReviews]

Glad I could help! I haven't ever messed with trying aftermarket inserts on it but have seen others that have. The feedback is like you said, it's hit and miss on compatibility. You may want to check out the Zelos Mod Group on Facebook if you have access. There are pics on there and a gentleman that has done a lot of switching. Cheers

[@KidAMRadio]

They have those pry tools (pack of several) also at Harbor Freight Tools.

[@JonathanTReviews]

Yep, I think that's where these came from. You can find them at some hardware stores too, Amazon is just easier for many people and available almost anywhere.

[@andrascsongormolnar1846]

Hi!nice work!what is the brand of the watch?it is wery nice.

[@JonathanTReviews]

Thank you! It's a Zelos Mako V3. I review most of their watches on the channel if you care to check any out. Cheers

[@jojoG1441]

Have a Heimdallr skx homage that I removed the bezel of to do some cleaning. Unfortunately I couldn't get it back on. It did have an octagonal retaining spring which got damaged. Do you know if it requires this to stay in place??? Other than the retaining spring, it's very similar to this

[@JonathanTReviews]

I'm not familiar with that specific bezel but there are commonly two springs, the leaf spring for bezel clicks and the octagonal spring that retains the bezel. You may have luck playing around with the octagonal spring until it seats back into the bezel. Good luck

[@JohnC-un3oi]

Do you have any extra advice on a titanium Swordfish Calypso bezel removal? Thanks

[@JonathanTReviews]

The fundamental process and retention style should be very similar. Just be careful with the titanium (easier to scratch/mar). They're also usually a bit tighter than the Mako from what I've seen. Good luck! Cheers

[@kabuto2365]

Hi Jonathan. Thanks for this very useful video. The link for the pry bar points to a totally different tool. Can you share a new link? Thanks.

[@JonathanTReviews]

My pleasure! The one I use in the video was locally purchased so I linked the closest option I could find on Amazon. Cheers

[@JonathanTReviews]

My apologies. I just got a chance to check the link and you're right that they changed the listing entirely. I've updated with a new link to a kit that should do the trick. Thanks for bringing this to my attention. Cheers

[@kabuto2365]

@@JonathanTReviews Thank You Sir!!!

[@morethanawatch-piucheunoro3364]

Incredible how it looked easy on min 3:30

[@JonathanTReviews]

Yep, it's not a bad process at all. Cheers

[@marpro1824]

I wonder if the same tool would work for opening a case back (obviously the non screwed ones) for extra protection and avoiding scratches, compared to case knife.

[@JonathanTReviews]

It's possible but I'm not sure it will be and to get enough purchase. Cheers

[@marpro1824]

@@JonathanTReviews thanks, cheers

[@FT4Freedom]

I've been messing with two different invicta pro divers, and those bezels are tight as can be.

[@JonathanTReviews]

Some watches can be a bugger. I haven't ever tried removing an Invicta bezel to be of further assistance unfortunately. Best of luck. Cheers

[@rudyck54]

Can i do the same way on my Tissot seastar 1000 with dive bezzel which is not turning anymore. Please advice🙏

[@JonathanTReviews]

I've never worked on that specific model, but it's likely a similar application. You'd want to make sure it doesn't use an alternative retention method before trying. Cheers

[@ShihabdeentheCyclist]

Hi how to change bidirectional bazel to unidirectional bazel in Casio mrw 200 model

[@JonathanTReviews]

That would likely be a difficult task. Most bidirectional bezels use a bearing or similar to allow either direction to operate. Unidirectional bezels typical use a leaf spring which only allows the one direction. You'd probably have to retrofit the leaf spring.

[@aralevonian8391]

followed your link for the tool you were using but the products are different did you have to shape your tool?

[@JonathanTReviews]

No, I made this video a few years ago. I've had to change the link a couple times due to Amazon and/or the vendors changing the listings. The tools in the video were purchased locally years ago but any similar ones should do the trick. I hope this helps. Cheers

[@aralevonian8391]

@@JonathanTReviews Thought so, and yes I will make a tool similar to yours as you have inspired me!

[@randomals]

Thanks for the video. Question, what you say “for added mayzure…” what does that mean? Thanks again.

[@JonathanTReviews]

Thanks for watching! I'm not certain of the specific context, but I'm guessing I said "for added measure" (I say measure poorly. LOL), trying to indicate I checked or was showing something from more than one perspective (reconfirming) or more likely for this video added another layer of protection to be more cautious. Cheers

[@taotzu1339]

Mine is now bi-directional since the spring doo-hicky thing popped out and can't be found. Oh well, I kinda like it being able to turn both directions.

[@JonathanTReviews]

I think we've all been there with having a little part get away from us. Hopefully it turns up. If not, the manufacturer may be able to help. Cheers

[@karm42yn]

Can you share a direct link to that pry tool? It takes me to a kit that doesn't have the tool you used. I bought a different kit on Amazon but the plastic is kinda flimsy and doesn't seem to do what I want it to.

[@JonathanTReviews]

Unfortunately, the exact one in the video was purchased locally and I don't have a link available. The Gliston kit linked in the video should be similar. A ton of people have purchased that kit without reporting issues. Sorry I can't be of more help. Cheers

[@frazzl]

Can you use this technique to fix bezel alignment?

[@JonathanTReviews]

Possibly as a starting point, depending on the bezel. Many bezels have a bezel insert that's typically fixed with adhesive. You'd have to remove the insert and adjust that part. The bezel itself has fixed teeth so you can't typically adjust that part.

[@jbmoneysauce8191]

This is a helpful tutorial, however the link to the tools does not have the same tool he uses and I would not recommend them. I ended up using a dull knife instead.

[@JonathanTReviews]

Thanks for the heads up. This has needed to be updated several times over the years as listings change. The set linked now appears to be identical to the ones used in the video. Cheers

[@gfinato]

Have you tried this method on a Zelos Hammer Head?

[@JonathanTReviews]

I haven't, but it should likely still work. The Hammerhead has a pretty significant setback for the bezel, leaving more area to apply leverage with the tool. I'd just make sure to thoroughly mask the surfaces though if you do try it. Good luck. Cheers

[@johnhouli3450]

Ty but I need to remove the top glass area is it the same method

[@JonathanTReviews]

Not certain I understand which part you're referencing. Are you referring to the crystal (the part over the dial) or the bezel insert (the material varies but some include sapphire inserts). For the crystal, no, it should be a completely different process though removing the bezel might be necessary. If you are referring to the bezel insert, yes, in part. Removing the entire bezel makes accessing the insert easier for removal. Depending on the material, be aware that you'll likely damage or break the stock insert in the process. Good luck. Cheers

[@johnhouli3450]

@@JonathanTReviews the part over the dial.

[@JonathanTReviews]

That is a more involved process and usually involves further disassembly along with a crystal press.

[@elgato3535]

Will this work on the zelos mako with the titanium case/bezel? Or is the titanium to soft?

[@JonathanTReviews]

It certainly should. I know some have swapped that bezel and I haven't heard of issues. I'd just be careful and not force things if you decide to proceed. Good luck. Cheers

[@elgato3535]

@@JonathanTReviews I want to express my gratitude to you for this video. I conducted the bezel transplant today on my Zelos Mako V3 Titanium watches following your instructions. It went perfectly, zero damage, now they look fabulous. It saved me between $50-$135 not having to go to a jeweler. Plus I didnt have to wait weeks for it to be done. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!

[@JonathanTReviews]

That's great to read! I'm very glad to have helped! Cheers

[@elgato3535]

@@JonathanTReviews thank you again sooo much!

[@Bruhecc]

You could also use those little orange lego piece removers too, right?

[@JonathanTReviews]

Wasn't familiar with them but did a quick search. It looks like it may work. Not sure if the end is too thick or there would be enough leverage. If someone already has one on hand, I'd say it's worth a shot.

[@jyairayvee]

Can you use this method for a diamond bezel

[@JonathanTReviews]

Depending on the bezel style, it is likely possible. However, I'd be concerned with potential damage.

[@srcdp4408]

Hi, is the bezel on horizons gmt v2 similarly easy to swap? Thanks

[@JonathanTReviews]

I haven't tried to remove mine, but the process should be very similar. The Horizons bezel is a ball bearing action, as opposed to a spring (featured in this video with the Mako), but most moveable bezels feature a similar retention system. I didn't show it well in the video but there is a wavy spring in a groove inside the bezel itself. This is what retains the bezels on the case. With most watches, all you're trying to do is pop that out of a case groove to free the bezel.

[@JonathanTReviews]

To ensure I provided you with accurate information, I have confirmed that the Horizons also just uses a tension ring. The provided technique should do the trick. The main thing is to be careful not to lose the small bearings or springs. As mentioned in my previous reply, that part is different than what's in the video. For extra piece of mind, you could remove it inside of a large Ziploc bag just in case the bearing or spring falls out.

[@rommelarias426]

Hi Guys! Can the Rotating Bezel of a TechnoMarine Cruise be removed? TIA for your response :)

[@JonathanTReviews]

I unfortunately can't help with that one. Hopefully someone else will be able to assist. Good luck!

[@bladerunnersn]

Can the glass lenses be removed when the bezel is removed

[@JonathanTReviews]

Are you referring to the crystal (over the dial)? If so, that generally requires disassembling the case and using a press to install/remove. Cheers

[@bladerunnersn]

@@JonathanTReviews yes mate

[@TeaDoubleE85]

Will this work on a Seiko King turtle 🐢?

[@JonathanTReviews]

I'm sorry but I can't confirm. Hopefully someone else will be able to do so. Best of luck! Cheers

[@rammillim5555]

Have you ever tried this or anyone confirm you can remove a King Turtle bezel this way without damaging the ceramic insert?

[@fewik8567]

Are watch bezels universal? If I were to buy one from AliExpress would it fit on say a Casio diver?

[@JonathanTReviews]

Sorry, but they are not. The sizing, attachment point/style, teeth pattern, etc. can all vary.

[@fewik8567]

@@JonathanTReviews I see, thank you for the response, greatly appreciate it

[@ronch550]

I have an Aragon Divemaster II which I got just 3 weeks ago. Yesterday I noticed that the bezel suddenly took a lot of effort to turn, until it just became too hard to turn. I tried putting in some oil but it didn't help. Dunno if I can still turn it. Guess i have no choice but to pop the bezel and see what's going on, so I ordered some pry tools. I hope the innards didn't shear or something.

[@JonathanTReviews]

That stinks 😣 I hope everything goes smoothly and you're back up and running soon. Cheers

[@ronch550]

​@@JonathanTReviews thanks, dude. Can't wait to pop it open and see what's going on.

[@michaelcorleone287]

@@ronch550 update on your watch?

[@ronch550]

@@michaelcorleone287 well I washed the watch and tried turning it again and it suddenly turned and now it's fine. I think the water made the oil spread inside.

[@michaelcorleone287]

@@ronch550 I have placed my watch in bowl of warmish water with mild soap and have the bezel a couple of turns still feels the same. What oil brand did you use?

[@MrSandcrab1945]

OK so I lost my bezel and all I have left is a circular spring (?). Supposing I can locate a bezel, how does it go back on? How is it measured?

[@JonathanTReviews]

It can vary from watch to watch but there are typically two springs, a retention ring (looks like a wire and is usually in a groove on the bezel itself) and a leaf spring (which I'm assuming is what you're seeing). The first part is what actually holds on the bezel and it just needs to be gently snapped back onto the watch. Not sure what you mean by how is it measured. Cheers

[@MrSandcrab1945]

@@JonathanTReviews Assuming bezels come in different sizes, I don't see anything but brands in your catalog. My watch is a Benrus diver from the late 60's. I'm getting the idea on how it goes back on but all I have left is the circular spring.

[@JonathanTReviews]

Bezels are not generally going to be interchangeable from one watch model to another. There's more to compatibility than just the diameter measurement.

[@MrSandcrab1945]

@@JonathanTReviews What would be your suggestion for locating an antique bezel?

[@JonathanTReviews]

Sorry, I don't have any. Not my area of expertise and is likely a tall order. Good luck

[@saintmartin2994]

I wish it was so easy for my watch zeppelin 7680-1

[@JonathanTReviews]

Some of them can be a bugger 🫤 Best of luck with it. Cheers

[@Dirtywesterner]

So I used super glue for attaching a replacement bezel insert , and despite my cautious approach I successfully froze my bezel . I’m wondering if I can submerge the watch in acetone to try and unlock it? I’m going to accept the new insert will detach

[@JonathanTReviews]

Oh man, that's unfortunate. Hopefully you're able to free the bezel. I would not want to put the watch itself in acetone for potential seal damage. You'll also likely damage the bezel insert lume or paint, as a heads up. Good luck!

[@larryfromwisconsin9970]

I bought the tools in your link and I still cannot get my dive watch bezel off.

[@JonathanTReviews]

That stinks. Some of them can be pretty tight, though most still use the same technique and installation/removal method. It may help to search and see if anyone has removed the bezel from the specific watch you're working on. Cheers

[@Joniyah444]

Inward pressure like wedge? Or pry down or up. Scratched my orient a little -__-

[@JonathanTReviews]

I'd describe it as more of a wedge with maybe a slight downward angle. That stinks about the scratch. I'm pretty liberal with the tape to help protect. Good luck

[@gyrovague]

Do you have a Kamasu bezel issue too?

[@darkling84]

I'm with you... Just scratched my beloved Orient Mako XL... Why in the world didn't I gave it to customer service? damn it...

[@Joniyah444]

@@gyrovague yes I put on a new one, it’s only a little better.

[@Joniyah444]

@@darkling84 it’s okay, the scratch can be removed if you want it to be, and it’s not noticeable really anymore. You’ll get better too. Better to practice on that then a longines or breitling right.

[@powahmoar3122]

Tried with a Tissot Seastar 1000 but failed

[@JonathanTReviews]

Bummer. Some of them can require a bit of finesse and persistence.

[@marcsbh]

link to the tool shows another tool :(

[@JonathanTReviews]

Sorry about that. I just tried the link and it seems to be working for me. Is it coming up with a kit of four orange tools? These were the closest I could find to the one I use in the video. It's just a hard plastic pry bar with a wedged end.

[@TheMicrobrandReview]

Try these instead maybe: www.amazon.com/Non-Mar-Smartphones-Electronic-Wholesale-Quantity/dp/B07C2YC8GP/ref=sr_1_20 - Basically some plastic spudger pry bars for cellphones or laptops from spudgertool.com should do the trick.

[@JL-fh4qw]

What watch is that?

[@JonathanTReviews]

It's a Zelos Mako V3 in the Frost colorway. They can be tough to find but there have been some popping up recently. I'm coincidentally thinking about selling mine. I have a bunch of Makos and need to keep new ones flowing in for the channel. Cheers

[@JL-fh4qw]

@@JonathanTReviews I might be interested if you have a midnight version

[@JonathanTReviews]

I do but have sentimental attachment to that one. I do have a blue sodalite dial Terra/Mako that I'd consider selling.

[@JL-fh4qw]

@@JonathanTReviews I don't blame you, I find that is the prettiest out of the Mako v3, although I would like it even more if they replsced the blue bezel for something more neutral, like a Traska styled bezel with scratch reistant steel. Btw do you have any other watches you'd consider maybe trading for a discontinued Nomos Club Dunkel 702 ref?

[@JonathanTReviews]

I swapped the bezel on my Midnight to a SS version (though it doesn't have the coating, which would be nice). Sorry, but I'm looking to make some room. I have overflowing boxes and need to keep a stream coming in for the channel. The only three I'm considering selling at the moment are the Sodalite Terra/Mako, Frost Mako, and Signum Cuda Opal Mosaic.

[@mitchd949]

If you're using a plastic tool, the tape is completely unnecessary. Plastic will not scratch steel in this situation.

[@JonathanTReviews]

In theory, I agree. I still personally prefer not to take any chances though. I've had surface scuffs from other things that shouldn't scratch steel. Cheers

[@largol33t1]

Doesn't work at all. I tried and tried and the bezel on my Wenger watch is 100% jammed. I used a plastic wedge and all I did was ruin the wedge. Should I use a knife blade? The bezel is REALLY stuck. I couldn't get it to budge even a tiny bit.

[@JonathanTReviews]

That stinks you're running into an issue. The technique works (many have used the same method with success) but it isn't universal. I'm not familiar with the Wenger bezel to be able to confirm if it's the same attachment style so I'm hesitant to give advice. Sorry I can't be of great help. Good luck. Cheers

[@RyeOnHam]

I got the bezel on my Wenger off just as easily as Jonathan. They made a lot of watches over the years, so YMMV.

[@JonathanTReviews]

Thanks for sharing your Wenger results 🥂

[@vanwilder1101]

Why did you use all that tape with a plastic tool?

[@JonathanTReviews]

Out of an abundance of caution. While it shouldn't scratch, I've had other things that shouldn't cause surface scuffs do so (perhaps dust particulates or otherwise). Cheers

[@vanwilder1101]

@@JonathanTReviews Ok- hopefully mine comes off that easy! Thanks for the video..

[@treymax88]

I also suggest goings in between the lugs ;) mmmmmhhhhhmmmm. Hey yeah

[@JonathanTReviews]

Only with protection (tape) though 😉

[@SuperSeth321]

how to remove screw from watch plate of 10$ watch

[@roelketelaar218]

This looks simpel but in practice most bezels are not that simpel to remove.

[@JonathanTReviews]

It definitely varies from one watch to another but the basic technique is generally applicable. Cheers

[@--RSL--]

abs plastic wont scratch steel... no need for excessive taping.

[@JonathanTReviews]

In theory it shouldn't, but I've seen brushed and other finishes be blemished by other similar contact. I personally prefer overkill to be safe. Cheers

[@HappyBuddhaBoyd]

To be fair, this technique only works with watches valued under $50.

[@JonathanTReviews]

That hasn't been consistent with my experience. The watch in the video is ~$500 and of great quality. Cheers

[@matthewschoenberg1119]

@@JonathanTReviews What type of watch is this, I have a 1st gen Borealis Cascias that has the same 'thin' style bezel and spring. The factory wants $200 for a replacement bezel. Are replacements for this watch available? The case is almost identical with the domed saphire crystal.

[@JonathanTReviews]

This watch is a Zelos Mako V3. That's quite disappointing to read and a really high replacement cost in my opinion. Regarding compatibility, sorry, I can't help as I've never owned a Borealis (and honestly don't intend to as I've never been impressed with the way they handle themselves in groups). If it's just the spring that failed, it should be a pretty easy and cheap fix. If replacing the entire bezel, keep in mind they're very specific with dimensions, number of clicks, etc. Best of luck. Cheers

[@matthewschoenberg1119]

@@JonathanTReviews Thanks for the reply. I was able to find a non-working on Ebay, now I know how to remove the bezel. The Borealis has a nice weight to it and a ratchet clasp. Not as impressed with customer service. The Zelos is new to me, but seem like decent designs. Unfortunately all of their straps & accessories are sold out. (horween leather and tropical straps). I had liked Chris Ward, but they are getting over priced.

[@JonathanTReviews]

I'm glad you ended up finding a solution, even if not through the company. Zelos is definitely worth a look. I feature quite a lot of their watches on here, if you care to check any out. They're arguably the most popular microbrand (CW I'm sure beats them out, if you still count them). You're correct though that their watches usually sell out instantly. You won't find better customer service ANYWHERE (not just watch industry) and the value across all price points (they range from ~$250-$12,000) are always excellent. Cheers