The Newbie Modder’s Guide to Replacing a Seiko Bezel Insert

Watch modding is a hobby or practice of modifying a watch to personalise its appearance or performance. Most watches can be modded, but only a handful of companies encourage it, particularly those manufacturing parts for the market. One such company is Seiko, a Japanese watch brand that has been around for more than 140 years. Most Seiko watch parts can be modded, but one of the most common parts is the bezel insert.

The bezel insert is the part of the watch that surrounds the crystal. It can be made from various materials, including metal, plastic, and ceramic. Modding a bezel insert is an excellent way to customise the look of your watch because it is one of the things when you look at it. However, the modding process is tricky because you must be careful not to damage the watch and its parts. For this reason, we will guide you on changing your Seiko watch’s bezel insert.

The Tools You Will Need

Watch modding is not something you can do with any tool because you need specific tools to get the job done. Without these tools, you will find it challenging to mod your watch, and you may even damage it. With this in mind, here are the tools you will need:

• A replacement bezel
• Caseback remover tool
• Case holder
• Adhesive ring
• A sharp blade
• Adhesive remover
• Flathead screwdriver
• Microfibre cloth
• Paper towel or rag
• Parts dish
• Toothpicks
• Tweezers

Modding Your Seiko’s Bezel Insert

Modding a Seiko watch is highly technical, but it is also a straightforward process. The steps are as follows:

Step 1: Remove the Caseback

To modify your watch, you must remove the watch’s caseback. You will use a caseback tool and a case holder to help provide extra torque. To protect the watch from being scratched, you should use a cloth when you put it on the case holder. It’s also worth noting that most caseback tools are adjustable; chances are yours too. Because of this, you should set the depth of the tool to the correct depth before you start. Once done, you can unscrew the caseback off and work on the watch.

Step 2: Remove the Crown

Seiko watches usually come with a 4R36 Caliber movement. To detach the crown, use a small pointed tool, like a screwdriver, to press down on the lever. Depending on the type of watch you own and its movement, you may need to refer to the user’s manual for instructions on taking off the crown. As you apply gentle pressure, you can use a flathead screwdriver to draw the crown away from the case. It should come off completely, and you should have no difficulty doing this.

Step 3: Remove the Movement

To remove the movement, use a flathead screwdriver to pry it out of the case carefully. Be careful when you do this, as the movement is securely fastened, and you don’t want to damage the case or movement. Once the movement is loose, keep control of it, as it can suddenly pop out, and if not handled properly, it can be damaged. Place the caseback, crown, and movement in a parts dish to ensure the pieces don’t get lost. Use a movement holder to keep the movement in place and support it, so it doesn’t get damaged.

Step 4: Removing the Bezel

Using a sharp tool, such as a caseback knife, pry the bezel from the watch’s case. Put the blade’s edge between the bezel and the case and apply force to pop it off. After that, put the tool’s tip between the bezel and the insert and gently move it back and forth until the insert is completely separated from the bezel. Once the adhesive has been saturated with remover, use a sharp blade or flathead screwdriver to remove the used adhesive. Wipe off the bezel with a cloth or paper towel to ensure it is dry.

Step 5: Installing the New Bezel

Before adding the new bezel insert, you must first prepare the adhesive. You must obtain a special-cut double-sided adhesive, which usually comes with the replacement insert. However, it can be purchased from most parts retailers if you require additional adhesive.

To attach the adhesive ring to the bezel, remove the paper backing on one end of the ring. Carefully align the exposed adhesive side with the bezel’s edge and press it down, ensuring the ring fits flat against the metal. Use a flat-edge tool, such as a knife, to press the adhesive down and ensure it adheres properly. Once the entire ring is secured, peel off the remaining paper backing and discard it.

You can now begin to install the new bezel insert. Place the insert on the adhesive, press down, and re-insert the bezel click spring into the case. It should fit snugly with two metal feet placed into the case’s holes, ensuring it sits flush against the surface. If available, position the bezel onto the case and apply pressure with a pressing tool. After properly installed, it should rotate with a click when you turn it counterclockwise.

Conclusion

A watch’s bezel insert is one of the parts that enhance its aesthetic appeal, so replacing it with a new one is a great way to keep your timepiece looking as good as new. With the right tools and techniques, replacing your watch bezel insert is a relatively straightforward process that can be done in a matter of minutes. All that matters is that you take time and ensure the new insert is secured before you wear your watch again.

If you’re looking for Seiko bezel inserts, SeikoMods has what you need! We offer various parts suitable for customisation at affordable prices. Mail us today at info@seikomods.com to place an inquiry!