Removing jewels from bridge plates; staking tool?

[kbiz]

I'm wanting to remove and reinstall the jewels on the top plates of a movement... do I have to have a staking kit or is there any other way to do it? Can I modify my crystal press to do this or is it too risky that I might crack a jewel? I'm wanting to refinish the plates which is why I'm hoping to remove the jewels...

[nicewatchdude]

I would suggest finding a friendly watch smith to remove them for you and replace them when

you are done. The tools for staking can be expensive unless you find them used, and then learning

to remove and reinstall would take some practice.

I'm wanting to remove and reinstall the jewels on the top plates of a movement... do I have to have a staking kit or is there any other way to do it? Can I modify my crystal press to do this or is it too risky that I might crack a jewel? I'm wanting to refinish the plates which is why I'm hoping to remove the jewels...

[automatico]

I use a 'deluxe' Seitz jeweling tool with micrometer adjustment and it makes the job easy. A regular staking tool is iffy imho.

You can find used Seitz tools at NAWCC Marts, eBay etc for around $50 to $200.

Some info:

http://mb.nawcc.org/showthread.php?t=19489

http://watchmakingblog.com/2008/01/22/horia-jeweling-tool/

You do not want to buy one new!

http://shorinternational.com/JewelingStaking.htm

[kbiz]

I read an article that recommended the Seitz tool... I'll check it out...

[kbiz]

Oh I get it... you gotta measure the position of the jewel before pressing it out... then press it back in to the exact same depth?? A little complicated...