How to Replace a Scratched or Cracked Watch Crystal, Step by Step

Step by step instruction on how to replace the watch crystal (glass) on a wrist watch. This video shows the tools required, how to remove the crystal, measure it for replacement, and how to install a new crystal. To perform the crystal replacement the watch movement must be removed from the watch case - which I also demonstrate.
In this video I make extensive use of the Horotec Precision Press MSA06.135. I bought this press as part of a kit which included a number of the Delrin type dies shown in the video under the part number MSA06.136.
Need to buy a watch crystal? Buy one here!
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I'm Colin Potts, owner of Watch off the Cuff in Milton, ON Canada, a boutique watch repair company that repairs watches, sells new and vintage watches and watch parts, and also provides technical resources, watch articles and more:
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The Watch off the Cuff watch repair channel:
/ @watchoffthecuff
My Articles on RegardingLuxury.com:
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Jakob Eitan Watches:
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[@kevinokeeffe9219]

I am impressed by your systematic approach and attention to details ...

[@watchoffthecuff]

Thank you! Very appreciated, it helps keep me motivated to do more videos. Cheers, Colin

[@pyzik200]

Thanks for posting this. Gonna order a press and give it shot

[@watchoffthecuff]

Amazing! Feel free to reach out if I can help in anyway. Cheers, Colin

[@pyzik200]

@@watchoffthecuff thanks for the offer. Sat down and replaced the dial/face and hands on my watch yesterday. It was a little scary at first but actually pretty easy!

[@watchoffthecuff]

@@pyzik200 That's great. The first time is always the most nerve wracking! It does get easier and easier every time.

[@ronplauche7996]

Very nice instruction. Just learning, but able to remove crystal once I used the proper sized dies. Thank you. Ron P.

[@watchoffthecuff]

Awesome!!!!!

[@KillingTimeWithNorman]

This video is SO great! I've seen crystal replacement videos, but no real info on what goes into identifying the proper replacement one. Thanks for this.

[@watchoffthecuff]

Thanks Norman!!!

[@ScottNotAvailable]

Also you skipped past the crown stem removal!

[@watchoffthecuff]

You are totally right! Thankfully covered it in another video which is here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qne9fHyejsasns0

[@ScottNotAvailable]

@@watchoffthecuff thanks man! Great video

[@loucyphre376]

Great video! Trying to get my Grandfather's old Hamilton crystal replaced, hope my local jeweler is as proficient as you!

[@BlacksBeachBoogieBurner]

Gives one a real appreciation for professional watch care!

[@watchoffthecuff]

thank you! Very kind!

[@downsouth1678]

Great video, very explanative. I'll go ahead and try to change my first crystal!

[@watchoffthecuff]

Amazing! Good luck, I'm sure it will turn out great.

[@henry20061227]

Very detailed demo. Thanks so much.

[@watchoffthecuff]

thanks! you are welcome!

[@royalmaster203]

Thanks for the vid,, on the micrometer, I noticed a small lever on the barrel housing, this lever may used to back of the screw, to slide the anvil close to the work, then release the lever to make the final adjustment.

[@watchoffthecuff]

thank you! I didn't know about the lever! Super helpful!!!!!!

[@roderickcozens5371]

Great tutorial. I got my lense out in one piece👍👍

[@watchoffthecuff]

Nice! You never know if its going to come out in one piece or a thousand shards!

[@yejemoleg9821]

hopefully i will find a watch maker in ethiopia to fix my Rolex Oyster glass , it's not the "original" it's a replica

[@stevejohnman68]

Is this same for both glass and acyrlic crystals?

[@watchoffthecuff]

No, acrylic are compressed and fit into a machined groove, and require a special tool... Here is a video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppurnXWQe7p3h5I

[@igani1]

i have a Seiko 4336-8080, and I'm not sure if a new crystal needs to be glued in or if it can be pressed in with pressure. if Can you advise?

[@watchoffthecuff]

Send me a picture to [e-mail] ?

[@marcoadelapaz7154]

Hi great video, I have a watch which I replaced the crystal on, I put in the new crystal and I am able to pull it out from the inside but from the outside it is hard as rock, I think I need to get a bigger size what do you think

[@watchoffthecuff]

yes, sounds like you need a crystal an extra 10th of a millimeter (or maybe 2/10ths) wider. If it pushes out that easily it might drop out if the watch is knocked the right way while being worn.

[@b67fstb]

Before assembling , you should clean everything first ! Just good advise here .

[@pen1208]

Does this gauruntee the water resistance? I am assuming the outward pressure of the crystal against he plastic gasket creates the water resistance of the crystal-face?

[@watchoffthecuff]

Yes, the crystal does make a water tight seal against the gasket. Guarantee? - nothing is a guarantee! If I was cincerned though I would put it through a water resistance test. I show this procedure at the end of this video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/amenZnmffMZ9n6Msi=0QGEVJaE1Gp3jSjw

[@pen1208]

@@watchoffthecuff Thanks, that was my next question. What makes a "good quality" leak tester, as there are many on the market. This helps answer that further. Thanks a BUNCH !!!!!!!!

[@watchoffthecuff]

You are welcome!!!

[@margiehubbard3234]

I shattered the crystal and now little bits of glass are stuck in the adhesive (I guess) around the edges of the ring. how do i get rid of them?

[@watchoffthecuff]

You should use some Rodico to grab any pieces of debris.... watchoffthecuff.com/products/bergeon-6033-rodico-cleaning-product?_pos=3&_psq=rodic&_ss=e&_v=1.0

[@jimoberhansli7782]

How would I get a double dome crystal out? The crystal press form all have a flat floor so I can’t press through. Can I press from out inwards through?

[@watchoffthecuff]

You definitely need a press with cupped dies. Even pressing a new domed crystal in will need a cupped die, if not it is very likely that the flat die pressing on just centre of the dome will crack it. (years ago this happeded to me before I got an upgraded press with better dies!)

[@Clockwatching247]

Hi which crystal press is that please? Great video 👍

[@watchoffthecuff]

Thank you! The press is a Horotec Maxipress!

[@downsouth1678]

Thanks for the video, I just took out the sapphire on my tag heuer formula 1, it's 33 x2.3 thick , now I can only find 33x2.0 , do you think it would create an issue if it's slightly thinner ?

[@watchoffthecuff]

It should be fine in terms of seal and fit - however depending on how high the orginal crystal was above the case the lower crystal might look a bit funny. In my experience a difference of about 0.2mm is usually okay. So If the original was 1.2mm for example going to either a 1.0mm or a 1.5mm depending on the depth of the crystal seat in the case has worked. In your case it's hard to tell as 0.5mm a significant difference is depth. You can always try though! If it doesn't work nicely you can always press it out again and go on a deeper search for a 2.5mm. Let me check to see if I can find a 2.5mm for you? I'll look around and see if I can find something.

[@downsouth1678]

​@@watchoffthecuff Og actually z I just noticed your store is in Canada and I am in Canada , I was buying my parts from Perrin before z I'll check out your store you seem to have a lot of horotec stuff that's nice

[@watchoffthecuff]

Just recently became and authorized dealer for Horotec, and even more recently for Bergeon as well - just haven't loaded all the new stuff yet!!! If you are ever in Milton let me know! Happy to give you a tour of my mini shop! lol Are you in Ontario?

[@Clockwatching247]

Hi thanks for the reply- what is the press you use to remove and replace the crystal please, thanks

[@Clockwatching247]

The lever press not the case remover press, thank you

[@watchoffthecuff]

my bad....let see if I can attached the original box with part jumber for the crystal press....

[@watchoffthecuff]

arghhh not gonna work... model is a Horotec "Standard Press" MSA 06.135 and is often bundled with a standard set of round dies.

[@Clockwatching247]

@@watchoffthecuff brilliant, thank you

[@taefields9810]

what kind of watch do you have on duriong this video , couldnt help but ask .

[@watchoffthecuff]

hahaha it is a Jakon Eitan with black dial. I launched the brand about 3 years ago. If you like it, it's for sale on my website! Cheers, Colin

[@jasonmitchell2510]

Where a seiko snxs79 is concerned. Since the crystal is held in place by the bezel itself and sits atop the gasket , can you replace crystal without removing the movement?

[@watchoffthecuff]

Send me a picture so I can confirm?

[@watchoffthecuff]

[e-mail]

[@wayneguy6043]

What is the going rate for labor to swap out a crystal?

[@watchoffthecuff]

A typical crystal change for a standard mineral crystal is $65 CAD in my shop. Specialty crystals and Sapphire can add significantly to the cost though!

[@rayzhang6252]

aw1524-84e citizen，do you know the size and thickness of glass of this model? Thanks, and where can I find one?

[@watchoffthecuff]

I do not know the size. I usually remove the existing crystal and measure it (if possible), or I measure the opening in the case. I carry most sizes on my website. watchoffthecuff.com

[@Clockwatching247]

Also, which grease do you use around the gasket please? Thanks

[@watchoffthecuff]

It is made by Anchor and is silicone grease desgined for watches.

[@keithscrafts]

Nice video. How much would it cost for a replacement to be done? I have a Seiko Kinetic/Quartz Men’s Watch V739-0A89 and the crystal is badly scratched. I don't know if it's a valuable watch and if it is worth doing but I'd like to wear it.

[@watchoffthecuff]

A crystal replacement by me is usually $65 CDN, unless it is a particularly special crystal - but most Seiko Kinetics I have done in the past where pretty standard. Cheers, Colin

[@keithscrafts]

Thanks for the quick reply. I've been searching online to see if the watch was worth much and if it was worth getting done. Can't seem to find it's value anywhere.

[@watchoffthecuff]

If ypmou like the watch its worth it! Replacing the capacitor every 12 to 15 years is typical as well, and many customers have opted to get it done as well - and a cap change runs about $45. (something else to jeep in mind as a future cost of ownership).

[@U_itaBoo]

I have a seiko (7005-8000) and i have broken the original dommed acrylic crystal, can you tell me what diameter should my replacement crystal be ?the case size is 36mm without crown.

[@watchoffthecuff]

Is it possible to measure the damaged crystal for dimensions? I don't have this info and if I could find dimensions on a similar vintage Seiko I would be concerned that it wouldn't be a prefect match as I would be assuming all the crystals on these models were the same and they may not be!

[@U_itaBoo]

@@watchoffthecuff unfortunately the original crystal is broken but I can find on a website that the diameter of the crystal is 29.5mm and i was wondering if i should get the 1.5mm or 2mm in thickness of the crystal.

[@watchoffthecuff]

Nice find on the diameter! I would go with the 2mm. Just my preference.

[@1988banker]

What's the reference number for this Seiko?

[@watchoffthecuff]

Dial is marked: 7S26 2314 R 2

[@williambelford9661]

Can I replace a 31 X 2.9 mm flat mineral glass with a 31 X 2.7 mm double domed sapphire crystal?

[@watchoffthecuff]

Yes, it should be fine!

[@StagnantMizu]

I really wonder do you use the microfiber cloths once or clean them. because when you use them a lot you just smear the filth on the surface you want to clean right atleast that is what i notice with glasses.

[@StagnantMizu]

and what is that thing you call rotoko to clean the gasket with

[@watchoffthecuff]

watchoffthecuff.com/products/bergeon-6033-rodico-cleaning-product

[@watchoffthecuff]

left a link!

[@watchoffthecuff]

You're right at some point you have to clean the cloth itself or you just smear the dirt and oil around. To miimize this I thoroughly wash the crystal first then use a special purpose cloth to do the "final wipe", instead of trying to use the cloth the remove any significant dirt or oil.

[@StagnantMizu]

@@watchoffthecuff thanks, how do you clean the used cloth? by boiling in soap or something?

[@thulanimbele9432]

Hi, which supplier do you purchase your crystal and o-rings from?

[@watchoffthecuff]

It depends! I'm in Canada so use Perrin.ca and SomalCanada.com also in the US I use Esslinger.com

[@katiejohnson8269]

How can I send my Bulova to you for repairs

[@watchoffthecuff]

Send me an email to [e-mail] with a picture of your watch and what needs to be done and I can procide shipping instructions. Cheers, Colin

[@jimmydore9702]

Hi. Can the crystal on a tissot t race be replaced?

[@watchoffthecuff]

send me a picture of the watch?

[@watchoffthecuff]

I did a quick internet search... yes it can be replaced. Looks like its a Sapphire crystal, which is great - but sometimes can be hard to get the correct thickness anf diameter. Mineral crystal is available in 1/10 of a millimeter increments, where off the shelf Sapohire is typically availablre in 1/2 of a millimeter increments. Do you know what size you need? Cheers, Colin

[@jimmydore9702]

@@watchoffthecuff Hi Colin, I have a T race whose hands are very very difficult to see hence telling the time is very difficult. Could I get the glass removed and the hands painted/tinted white? Otherwise, watch is no use. Thank you.

[@jimmydore9702]

@@watchoffthecuff please advise

[@watchoffthecuff]

if the crystal is not damaged or scratched it does not need to be removed, the watch movement, dial (and hence hands) can be removed as an assembly through the back of the watch. I have suceasfully painted hands, but its bery trial and error to make it look good. Instead find out the movement model number (aka calibre) and find out what diameter hour, minute, and second hand posts are and get replacements that you like. Hope thay helps! Cheers, Colin

[@markstewart4171]

How did you remove the crown?

[@watchoffthecuff]

I detail how to remove the crown from a Seiko 7S26 here!: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qne9fHyejsasns0 Cheers, Colin

[@coverkosong7309]

Perfect

[@watchoffthecuff]

Thank you! Cheers, Colin

[@neelkanthkolambkar8805]

NICE SIR

[@watchoffthecuff]

Thank you! Very appreciated!

[@mototom9086]

Why didn't you show how to remove the crown ?

[@watchoffthecuff]

It was an editing error, however I did a video on just the crown removal for a 7S26 here! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qne9fHyejsasns0si=9a6ty21YAZNlyfWE

[@Panelson74]

what did you say at 4:31 ?

[@watchoffthecuff]

I think I said "give it a little tap" lol. Anything I can help with or clarify??? Cheers, Colin

[@emrahdelibalta8659]

Hi where can i buy this press?

[@watchoffthecuff]

if you are in the USA, Esslinger.com

[@dawidpodraza4187]

Does the turning pin just pull out? I'm attempting this on my tag heuer after being quoted £300 for a glass replacement. Watch was a gift anyway so neither can I afford that kind of repair or fancy paying £300 for a glass replacement when I see genuine glass be sold for £25 on ebay. I appreciate theres a markup but blimey!! I am considering just super glueing something to the broken glass and yanking it out and just pushing the other one back in gently

[@watchoffthecuff]

The crown and stem need to be released from the movement using a small (and sometimes partially hidden) button or lever. I have a bunch of videos that show how to do this. It is unlikely you be able to pull the crystal out with enough force, same for putting the new crystal in! This is an expensive crystal press that I use in the video, but cheaper ones are available and will work, they just won't hold up with repeated everyday use (which is why I later had to upgrade to a progressional level crystal press).

[@dawidpodraza4187]

@@watchoffthecuff thank you for the advice 💪🏻

[@vanwilder1101]

This is an acrylic glass? I've heard that you can't use an acrylic/plexiglass with a plastic glass gasket, only mineral or sapphire Glass can be used with a friction fit glass gasket? Is that right? I don't see why you can't use an Acrylic crystal with a friction fit gasket. Trying to work that out...thanks

[@watchoffthecuff]

The process shown is for mineral/sapphire only, as you have guessed. Acrylic crystals usually are compressed and fit into a lip in the case so they dont fall out. I show this in another video here... kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppurnXWQe7p3h5Isi=BET7hLFoS95XLKoo

[@vanwilder1101]

@@watchoffthecuff Thanks for the response, so using a replacement acrylic crystal in a watch that used a plastic gasket won't work? I watched you're video you just attached, however I've seen people press acrylic crystals into place and pop them out too, without that claw tool. Can I ask why an acrylic crystal won't seat with a gasket?

[@watchoffthecuff]

no, the reason is that the side profile of acrylic crystals isnt flat on the side like a glass crystal. It has an extra step out that fits into the lip of the case designed for acrylic.

[@vanwilder1101]

@@watchoffthecuff what about Acrylic that have retainer rings on the inside? I've seen people press those crystals into place on the case- without using that compression tool. I bought a replacement acrylic crystal for my diver that had a glass crystal. I guess I'm screwed now?

[@watchoffthecuff]

Without seeing the crystal, the case etc. it's hard to say... But if I had I bet on it... It's not going to work. You are welcome to send me a few pics to [e-mail] and I can take a look?

[@jackimyers9364]

what's the price of the press?

[@watchoffthecuff]

I sell them here in Canada: watchoffthecuff.com/products/horotec%C2%AE-professional-precision-press-complete (oops wrong item this is the screw-back case opener... will update with correct item! sorry!) EDIT: Here is the crystal press complete with 4 sets of dies: watchoffthecuff.com/products/horotec%C2%AE-precision-press Cheers, Colin

[@aidanmcmahon3240]

Be nice if you zoomed in, showed the pieces that should be inside the watch etc

[@watchoffthecuff]

Thanks for the feedback! I'll try to include more close ups and details in future videos!

[@kep1er_diaper]

My girl who is not currently my girl but she's my girl just broke my watch but I dont want her to pay for it but I think she should but I dont want her to pay for it

[@justinminer7952]

ASMR

[@watchoffthecuff]

High praise! Thanks!!!

[@yoyoramos7909]

👍👍👍❤️

[@watchoffthecuff]

Thanks!!!!

[@thatsawesome2060]

If i need to replace the crystal i will go for sapphire.

[@bleach_drink_me]

Do I hear a 3d printer in the background? What's the typical price you charge for this? Also do you repair watches with radium lume? Ah shoot your from Canada.

[@watchoffthecuff]

I don't have a 3D printer! hahaha, I'll have to do back and figure out what sounds are in the background in the video! Usually about $65 Canadian to do a crystal change. I do not repair/re-lume watches (although you never know what the future holds!). About being in Canada... I just did a repair for someone in South Carolina - the repair was the video I did about restoring a vintage timex! I encourage people to try and find a watchmaker close to them but I do take mailed in repair work. Usually costs about $25 CDN each way to ship with tracking. Cheers! - and thanks for watching, it really means a lot to me! Colin

[@bleach_drink_me]

@@watchoffthecuff I appreciate your response. I thought I heard a 3d printer but completely possible my wife started a print in another room and I didn't know it lol. I will check around local and see what I can find. I like that you aren't trying to sell your services first and offer the guide for diy and recommend local first. I will have to watch some more of your videos, I like vintage watches.even better if they have a story, example:i have an old 1940s timex from my great grandpa that used to wear it everywhere including work in a factory. He wasn't allowed to disclose what he did but do know he died of cancer in the 50s.