Crystal removal worth attempting by a novice?

[totalwise]

Hi

I'm thinking of procuring a sapphire crystal for my seiko monster, and popping out the hardlex in the process as well.

In the past I've successfully regulated watched from 1m+/- to 5s +/-, I've also dropped movements in order to reattach hands after they've come loose, and I was wondering whether I could pop out the crystal myself and attach a sapphire, or whether it's better to leave this job to the pros.

[Martyd3]

Popping a crystal out is fairly easy, putting one back in without a press can be a little tricky

[Nanuq]

Sure you can do it. I've done Seikos before and it's tough to get the new crystal in flat and square but it can be done. Enjoy the process!

[plaifender]

Go for it. Most are easy to get out. Without a press.. getting them in perfectly level and straight can be tricky but with a steady eye and even pressure.. it can be done

[Martyd3]

I have found with a couple of difference sizes of PVC pipe and a small vice with rubber coated jaws, you can do almost anything

[Nanuq]

I have found with a couple of difference sizes of PVC pipe and a small vice with rubber coated jaws, you can do almost anything

YEAH BABY!!

......or just use your heel and stand on it.

[Fireman_Fred]

On a more serious note....

If you remove a crystal from a water resistant watch (eg Seiko "100m"), will it still be water resistant when the crystal is replaced? (assuming it's put in correctly with a press).

[Nanuq]

Mine were waterproof again after using the "heel press" to reinstall the crystals.