Everything You Need to Know about Customised Watch Bezels

You may have come across watch bezels if you are interested in watch mods or if you needed to get your timepiece repaired. Other than the crown and the watch strap, the bezel is one of the customisable parts that can significantly impact the look and function of your watch.

In this article, we will run through everything you need to know about the watch bezel.

What Is a Bezel?

A watch bezel is one of the many parts of a watch case. It is the ring that encircles the crystal glass and secures it in place. Bezels are usually made of metal, but they can also come in other materials like ceramic.

What Are Rotating Bezels For?

Most bezel watches in 2021 feature a rotating bezel as they have spiked in popularity over the years. They are primarily included in divers’ watches due to their underwater functions. 

Rotating bezels in divers’ watches warn divers when their oxygen is running low. Most scuba tanks run out of oxygen within 60 minutes, and a rotating bezel is split into 60 sections, with each section representing one minute.

Before going underwater, a diver sets their timepiece to a specific time depending on the depth they plan to reach. This is done by setting the red arrow on the bezel to the correct position.

The Types of Watch Bezels

There are different types of watch bezels, each with a unique function, such as:

• Plain: These are simple bezels with minimal features. At times they can be beautified through jewels or patterns.
• Greenwich Mean Time (GMT): For travellers, these bezels can display the time in their origin country while the dial is set to the time zone of the country they are currently in.
• Decimal: These bezels are split into ten sections which display the time in decimals.
• Yacht-Timer: These are used for yacht racing by indicating when the race begins.
• Pulsometer: These are vintage bezels previously used to measure the heart rate of patients.
• Compass: Instead of numbers, the compass directions are indicated on the bezel ideal for long hikes.
• Telemeter: These bezels indicate the distance between you and someone or something else.
• Slide Rule: These bezels can calculate speed, distance, and time.
• Count-Up: These calculate the time that has passed since any given moment.
• Countdown: These are often used by runners to time how far they can go in an amount of time.
• Tachymeter: This is a fixed bezel watch that can measure speed, the time elapsed, and the distance travelled, which is ideal for racing.

Replacing Your Watch Bezel

If you are into do-it-yourself (DIY) projects, you can replace the watch bezel with a mod part by yourself. You will need the new bezel, new bezel insert, and a watch knife. Here is a quick guide:

1. Collect your tools and lay them on a flat work surface.
2. Press the knife into the gap between the bezel and the case. Don’t stop until you can’t go any further.
3. Use the knife to pull the bezel away from the case.
4. Insert your new bezel onto the dial by applying plenty of force.
5. Line up your new bezel insert with the 12oclock marker on the bezel and press it down.

Conclusion

Watch bezels can add beauty and functionality to a timepiece. They are ideal additions for travellers, adventurers, and athletes. 

Are you interested in Seiko mod watches in the UK to add your very own customised bezel to your watch? You can conveniently modify and customise your timepieces with us at Seiko Mods. Shop with us today!