CASE REPAIR QUESTION AND REQUEST FOR HELP

[Jon Hanson]

I have been told that there is a way of closing OF snap-on bezels for glass backs. Opening them for fitting is easy (use a lathe), but how does one close them?

Once someone told me that case repair people use a larger piece of tapered metal (like pipe size) and by forcing the bezel in tightens it slightly for fitting.

Can someone help me on this?

Thank you.

Jon

Jon Hanson, nawcc#8801
Founder and President chapter 149, The Early American Watch Club

[Jon Hanson]

I have been told that there is a way of closing OF snap-on bezels for glass backs. Opening them for fitting is easy (use a lathe), but how does one close them?

Once someone told me that case repair people use a larger piece of tapered metal (like pipe size) and by forcing the bezel in tightens it slightly for fitting.

Can someone help me on this?

Thank you.

Jon

Jon Hanson, nawcc#8801
Founder and President chapter 149, The Early American Watch Club

[doug sinclair]

Jon,

I think I understand what you are asking, but pardon me if I am wrong.

I have fitted glass crystals to bezels by taking a crystal that is slighty larger than the opening in the bezel (.05 mm), and heating the bezel a bit to expand it. Then, by using an oven mitt, lower the bezel over the crystal and allow the bezel to cool. Sometimes you break the crystal. And, may I say, NEVER overheat the bezel. If one wanted to get good at this technique, I'd think one would need a supply of glass crystals. When I change a glass crystal which is badly scratched but not broken, I keep it. It might come in handy for practice like this.

How one would get a crystal that has been "shrunk" in place like this out, without using heat and destroying the crystal, I don't know.

Doug

[Jon Hanson]

Doug,

No, I need help to perfect closing the bezel to fit on the glass back frames! You knw those glass back display cases where the bezels are either loose or too large! :frown:

Jon

Jon Hanson, nawcc#8801
Founder and President chapter 149, The Early American Watch Club

[ged]

HI JON, This procedure Is clearly described in " WATCHES ADJUSTMENT AND REPAIR" BY F.J.CAMM. First published in England 1940 , I have the 6th Edition 1948. I should think the NAWCC would have a copy, If not,let me know and I will donate my copy to them. REGARDS, GED.
NAWCC MEMBER #0117376
CHAPTER 168 MEMBER#CO51
CHAPTER IHC MEMBER#210

Learner

[doug sinclair]

Ged,

Thanks for helping both Jon and me out on this one. Your book might be a good place to start in terms of Jon's idea of posting horological repair books on the 'net. How do you feel about that, Jon? I have no idea how one would start a project like this. Can someone point us in the right direction?

Doug

[Jon Hanson]

Hi,

I have the book but never noticed that repair in it. Thanks.

The way would be for someone to provide a link to a particular book on the web. Several 149 members have expressed desire to provide links for projects.

Jon

Jon Hanson, nawcc#8801
Founder and President chapter 149, The Early American Watch Club