Installing a Yuki insert

[Nanuq]

OK, my package of 2 inserts arrived and I began the task of installing one into the bezel of the Big Gonzo.  It didn't go well, good thing I ordered two.  Here's the results of my first attempt.

 

Any guidelines to help me not ruin the next one as I attempt to install it?  It's a *cough* tight fit.

 

 

 

[droptopman]

@nanuq, please tell me you threw your body on top of the big gonzo to save it from the blast. Talk about collateral damage.  

[Nanuq]

Someone suggested I try a little heat to help with the install.

 

Didn't work.

[jackflash]

What went wrong? I usually need to shave a little off the outer edge and the underside for a decent fit on my 5513s

[JoeyB]

For at least 12 hours prior to installation, more depending on the individual,  do not, under any circumstances, consume beer and chilli. 

[jmb]

You didn't start a tundra fire, did you!!?? 

[dbane883]

only apply pressure to the outside of the insert.. are you using a 6538 MQ bezel with the big gonzo?

[Nanuq]

Yep, I've got both the MQ and Phong bezel, and no matter how hard I press I cannot click the thing into place.  Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

 

There will be suffering in Asgard!!!!!  

[dbane883]

interesting... I actually find the phong and MQ bezels a hair too wide for gen inserts.. so my guess is that the OD of the Yuki's are slightly wide...

if you have a caliper, measure the OD..  It should be around 36.55mm.  If its 37.00+, then it will require some trimming.

 

Alternatively, you could slighlty bend the inside of the insert higher, so that the insert becomes more "conical".  As a result, the OD will become slightly narrower and might fit then.   If that doesnt work, fall back to Option A and trim it slightly...  you might have to trim both the OD as well as the bottom to top thickness but sliding it flat on some 800-1200 grit paper.

 

Rather you mod the rep insert than one of your bezels.

[pam007]

I don't know about Yuki, but gen insert on gen bezel = you need a press.

 

I Tried for about an hour before my thumbs went numb, then took it to a watchmaker near my work.
 

Oh and my sad story about presses.... lesson learned:

http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=409250

 

Oh and Dbane called me an idiot for ruining my insert....

Edited May 7, 2015 by pam007

[kbh]

The way he installs the insert in this tutorial has always worked for me. Well, 3 times anyway. Might be worth a look. It's all in how you roll that last corner in.

 

http://www.vikbobil.se/bezel.html

[Nanuq]

Thanks for the suggestions gents, I tried a little pressure last night to click it in place.

 

Now I need a new bezel.

 

 

[Beachcomber]

The way he installs the insert in this tutorial has always worked for me. Well, 3 times anyway. Might be worth a look. It's all in how you roll that last corner in.

http://www.vikbobil.se/bezel.html

Thanks for this, I have followed this before and never had a problem, but they were all with gen inserts. Please do not try to press down on the pip as you will destroy it! I know like a fool I destroyed a very nice one.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Nanuq]

Yeah tell me about it........

 

[dieselpower]

'Nook - I think the problem you have is the combination of heat and pressure combined. Although I appreciate the press you have tried to use I'm afraid it lacks the element of heat to assist in the expansion of the bezel to facilitate the insert. Might I suggest you hop on a plane to China and give this set up a go - I think you will be pleased with the results:

 

 

 

[Nanuq]

Yeah baby!!! That will do it for sure!

[pam007]

NANUQ .. 

 

I just bought this:  http://www.ebay.com/itm/Close-Press-Watch-Bezel-Insert-Rubber-Nipper-Tool-For-Rolex-Tudor-/261810891020?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3cf525290c

 

I'll let you know if it works or not when I get it. 

[Nanuq]

Success! It's not a fattie MkIII but it's not bad.

[cc33]

Looks great

What a nice watch

[pam007]

Looks the part without breaking the bank !!

[Nanuq]

Now I need to find an old gnarly amber pearl. I ruined 6 Athaya pearls last night. Grrrrrrrr

Any ideas?

[cc33]

Only a gen pearl will do imo!

Try this maybe he still has it

http://www.network54.com/Forum/207673/message/1426806309/FS-+Rolex+Tritium+Pearl+for+Submariner+5512+5513+1680+1665+CHEAP

[JoeyB]

Looks great! 

 

For the pearl I've used the drop of 5 minute epoxy with a touch of lume underneath. The natural color is amber.  It really turns out nice. 

[Kime]

So what was the final method that got it to work?

[Nanuq]

Kime, it was ugly.  There were volcanoes and virgins, and midnight akkevit and axes and anvils.  It was horrific.

 

I think it will feature in the next Avengers movie.  Just between you and me.........