Bezel Changes

[mbroyer]

I'm considering getting a new watch and it's between the datejust II and GMT II. One of my perceived advantaes for the GMT is that I could mix bezels to match occasions. Is that an accurate assumption? And if it is, should I buy a special tool or are there any other considerations that I should be aware of (e.g., Rolex refusing to provide maintenance)?

Also, do you think that a GMT II would be acceptable with a Tux?

[Etschell]

of course it would acceptable with a tux. switching inserts isnt hard if you have the right tools and know what you are doing. if not dont try it.

i presume you mean the gmt 2, non ceramic.

[ducatiti]

I just use one of those plastic automotive trim pullers, really cheap.

Or you can buy those bracelet adjusting tool kit from eBay that will come with a watch knife you can use as well.

There are few videos out there. Add some tape as well to prevent scratches.

[VinnieVegas]

You can change the bezel inserts on the older GMT Masters, not the new ceramic ones.

I recently did my first change from Coke to Pepsi, and it wasn't difficult at all.

The biggest barrier was actually sitting down to do it, as I had an irrational fear of screwing up my watch.

I have Coke, Pepsi, and Black bezel inserts and it is awesome. Great watch!

As for the tux question, I think the by the book answer is "no," but the practical answer is "why not?" I'm not entirely up on my Miss Manners so I am sure others will provide good answers.

Good luck.

[VinnieVegas]

As for the tool, I use one of these I got from ebay for a couple of dollars. I wrap the head in some tape to minimize changes of scratching the bezel or the case.

iPad Spudger

[mbroyer]

Ok - so does that mean if I buy the new GMT II that I would not be able to switch the bezel? I prefer the blue hand to the green hand, but the black bezel to the combination.

[VinnieVegas]

Originally Posted by mbroyer

Ok - so does that mean if I buy the new GMT II that I would not be able to switch the bezel? I prefer the blue hand to the green hand, but the black bezel to the combination.

Yes, it means that you won't be able to personally do it. I suppose you can get a new ceramic bezel insert and a qualified watch repair person could do it.

[HogwldFLTR]

Ceramic bezels require involvement from a jeweler afaik (not to mention they aren't cheap at all).

[Furbo]

Why bother, get LN - good for any occasion, even BLNR goes with everything.

[hbombkid]

Yea really not worth it if you really want choices with the new models. Think the older ones you have the option of 3 and can do it yourself. New ceramic ones you only have two and need a watch jewelers to do it. The wg Pepsi won't fit SS models. I actually love swapping bezels I do it to my PO all the time. I have a BLNR and not really having an option to swap does not bother me.

[AK797]

Originally Posted by hbombkid

Yea really not worth it if you really want choices with the new models. Think the older ones you have the option of 3 and can do it yourself. New ceramic ones you only have two and need a watch jewelers to do it. The wg Pepsi won't fit SS models. I actually love swapping bezels I do it to my PO all the time. I have a BLNR and not really having an option to swap does not bother me.

Yup, worth doing on the pre-ceramics but a much bigger hassle on the ceramics and inserts not so easy to find.

[watchwatcher]

Well, if you take the perceived advantage of switching bezels out of the equation, how does that affect your decision?

[breitlings]

If you want to change bezels I'd recommend a 16710.

[1210tech]

Out of curiosity, why is it only a jeweller/repair agent that can change the ceramic bezel?
What's involved exactly?

Ps: I don't want to do it, just spiked my interest