Anyone ever have an insert that just won’t fit ?

[Kingsking]

I know sometimes they can be tough to snap in but the one I just got for my 5513 just won’t fit , seems a tiny too big without me forcing it or damaging it. Anyone ever experienced this before ?

[swaini3]

I have to use plastic pliers sometimes for the last bit, but if the gap of the last bit that wont fit is too big, I wont push my luck.

[antrolexsub]

Yes it’s common. Find a watch maker with a Rolex 1006 bezel tool. They’ll manipulate the bezel ring to fit the insert.

[swish77]

Yes. I have a stunning faded MK3 Sub insert that snapped near the pearl to prove it. Happened about a decade ago when you could get them for about $400. This insert, which I kept as a reminder of what not to do when an insert won't fit, would be about $2500-$3000 now .... if it wasn't broken.

[Kingsking]

So my best bet would be to find a watchmaker with the proper Rolex tool? It’s really tight and I don’t feel comfortable forcing it .

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by Kingsking

So my best bet would be to find a watchmaker with the proper Rolex tool? It’s really tight and I don’t feel comfortable forcing it .

Yes, for god's sake don't force it.

Get someone with the proper equipment to do it. Seen too many broken inserts from bodged DIY jobs. Including my own...

We've learned the lessons so that you don't have to.

[Dan S]

You might also want to be absolutely sure it's the right insert. IIRC there are some subtle differences for different generations and models.

[Kingsking]

This insert for a 1989 5513

[KY..]

Not saying you should do it but I’ve used a watch press tool to improve the convex shape to inserts for easier bezel installation.
At least it’s a lot better than taking pliers to you multi $$$ insert, but finesse is still required.

[JustinK]

Pliers with nylon tips work well for stubborn inserts.

[springer]

Why is using a watch press better than snapping an insert in with pliers? That press appears to be a recipe for failure.

When necessary, I've been using plastic tipped pliers for a couple decades now and have never had an issue snapping in an insert with this tool.

[KY..]

Originally Posted by springer

Why is using a watch press better than snapping an insert in with pliers? That press appears to be a recipe for failure.

When necessary, I've been using plastic tipped pliers for a couple decades now and have never had an issue snapping in an insert with this tool.

Fair enough, but it has worked well for me on stubborn inserts that were flattened more than desired or just a hard fit.
Again, it requires finesse not muscle.
I definitely do not say it’s for everyone but it offers a touch of DIY creativity in a pinch.

[alwayshere]

Originally Posted by KY..

Fair enough, but it has worked well for me on stubborn inserts that were flattened more than desired or just a hard fit.
Again, it requires finesse not muscle.
I definitely do not say it’s for everyone but it offers a touch of DIY creativity in a pinch.

Problem with using the crystal press is that on the aluminium inserts, you could actually distort the shape if not careful.

The plastic pliers is a safer bet, albeit still risky.

[L.K Johnson]

I have a 1675 insert that doesn’t fit perfectly in to the bezel, even my Rolex trained watchmaker had problems fitting it. It created a small gap between itself and the bezel that is visible from certain angels. Didn’t bother me though…I think it’s a part of the vintage charm…

[theflywrist]

As mentioned by the folks, take it to a watchmaker that has a 1006 tool. He'll adjust the top part of the bezel ring to accommodate for the insert better.
I've had tons of issues in the past, if it was just a tiny bit stubborn I'd use nylon pliers, sometimes using a different bezel ring would do the trick, other times it was resolved by using the correct tool by a watchmaker.

Dont push your luck too much, the insert could crack.

[Kingsking]

I appreciate all the advice. I tried snapping it in with plastic tipped pliers and its just not gonna happen . I've been on the phone seeking out local watchmakers with the right tool and so far only the Rolex service centre has the proper tool and they wont do it unless I pay for a service lol . The search continues.

[sensui]

From my experience with my watchmaker, 1006 is a great reliable tool when properly used for problems with stubborn inserts, bezels, and crystals that are slightly off tolerance.

[Kingsking]

Bumping this one again cause I have a question about the insert I posted above in post 8. Is it possible its not authentic? I took it to a watchmaker here in my city that used to work for a Rolex Ad and he claimed it wasn't authentic. I bought it from a seller with good references so I'm a bit confused.

[Dan S]

Originally Posted by Kingsking

Bumping this one again cause I have a question about the insert I posted above in post 8. Is it possible its not authentic? I took it to a watchmaker here in my city that used to work for a Rolex Ad and he claimed it wasn't authentic. I bought it from a seller with good references so I'm a bit confused.

Was it a bargain? ;-)

[Kingsking]

Originally Posted by Dan S

Was it a bargain? ;-)

Not even , paid fair price for it

[Dan S]

Originally Posted by Kingsking

Not even , paid fair price for it

Sorry, I was just teasing. But I understand it's not funny at this point.

[Kingsking]

Originally Posted by Dan S

Sorry, I was just teasing. But I understand it's not funny at this point.

It is what it is , this hobby is a minefield and we all know that when we decide to get involved , it wasn’t a huge sum of money it’s just disappointing.

Paid about $800 USD for it , guy has references and is a member here . The initial pictures seemed fine and nobody had anything bad to say about it .

[swaini3]

Could you share a well lit image of the back? in a way where you can tell the shape clearly.

[Kingsking]

Originally Posted by swaini3

Could you share a well lit image of the back? in a way where you can tell the shape clearly.

Tried my best to get one

[77T]

Your watchmaker may be right about the insert’s origin.

Mine in the past from 1980’s didn’t have the extra ridges in the back.

But I admit my one experience isn’t deep knowledge as the other’s eye who will have a closer look.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[hutch300]

I don't know anything but looking at HQ Milton and their 5513's from 1989 the pip looks off to me. You need one of the many experts here to chime in.

[swaini3]

you can compare the back of your insert to this one here. Only you can tell. Its hard to judge the back with the pic shown. https://www.tapatalk.com/groups/vint...4-t262109.html

[fizz]

I've had this problem with both my 5513 and 1675. What's frustrating is that the 5513 insert wouldn't fit into the bezel after I replaced a broken pip during service at a reputable watchmaker (I noticed it after it was returned and sent it back). They fiddled with it for some time and eventually got it to fit in place using some of their tools. I rather not attempt it myself.

The 1675 insert was more about applying pressure evenly throughout the refit process for which I used a cloth to even the strain.

[springer]

Looks like the same insert in every 5513 that I've owned. Just because an individual, whether a watchmaker or not, is having trouble making it snap in doesn't automatically make it aftermarket or a non genuine Rolex part.

I see no issues with the insert.

[Kingsking]

I agree with that however I took it to a second former rolex watchmaker today and he also said it wasn’t an authentic part . Seller has also gone silent for a week now so it’s not looking good .