1680 - Insert flat (damaged)?

[audicruisn]

I purchased a fat font insert for my 1680 and took it to my watch maker today to have it installed/replace my service insert.

He told me he couldn't do it, as the insert I purchased was damaged

He popped my service insert off and showed me the difference. The fat font insert was flat all the way around, whereas it should be beveled (a bit higher on the inside of the ring vs the outside).

Is there anything that can be done, or should I return this insert to the seller?

[Eric88]

Maybe it was a fake? I just installed a fat font on my 1680 today and it is awesome!

[Jason71]

Send it back

[TimeToGo]

Originally Posted by audicruisn

I purchased a fat font insert for my 1680 and took it to my watch maker today to have it installed/replace my service insert.

He told me he couldn't do it, as the insert I purchased was damaged

He popped my service insert off and showed me the difference. The fat font insert was flat all the way around, whereas it should be beveled (a bit higher on the inside of the ring vs the outside).

Is there anything that can be done, or should I return this insert to the seller?

Some inserts take a special "handling" to place properly. Not all watchmakers can do it.

It shouldn't be flat. May be damaged in the shipping.

Pics?!

[Warnsboy]

Unless it is cracked or distorted, it can be easily repaired. As it is flattened, the outside diameter is increased slightly making it difficult if not impossible to snap into the bezel. Likewise the inside diameter is smaller making it too tight around the crystal causing it to pop-off when putting the bezel back on. An AD's watchmaker should have a tool to return it to its original taper. I had one reshaped and it was amazing how nice and easily it snapped into place.


Here's a pic of the one I had trouble with; on my watch, after repair. It was shipped from europe and by looking it was difficult to tell it had been flattend slightly. There was no way it was going to fit and I almost gave up too......Glad I didn't. They are too hard to find with great patina

Some of the vintage experts should be able to validate authenticity if you post pics of front and back.

[audicruisn]

Thanks warnsboy. That's really good to know. I actually really like the insert so I will try to find someone local who can fix it. Below are the pics, can anyone verify authenticity?

On a side note, can anyone recommend someone in the LA area that could take a look at, and possible get it to work? Thanks!

[HL65]

Originally Posted by audicruisn

Thanks warnsboy. That's really good to know. I actually really like the insert so I will try to find someone local who can fix it. Below are the pics, can anyone verify authenticity?

On a side note, can anyone recommend someone in the LA area that could take a look at, and possible get it to work? Thanks!

Try Dalton Toledo at ABC Watchwerks in LA

[gqllc]

Originally Posted by SteelerFan1965

Try Dalton Toledo at ABC Watchwerks in LA

Absolutely agree! My watch is with them right now! They should be able to take care of it for you

[55121967]

I had this problem, drove me nuts!
But it can be solved...grab a beer bottle and place the insert over the neck of the bottle. Then, gently apply pressure downwards and this will gradually give your insert the correct shape it needs.
take your time, offer it back up to the bezel every so often, eventually it will fit snug. The bottle neck makes sure the insert stays perfectly round and in shape.

Good luck!!

[Kolkek]

Originally Posted by 55121967

I had this problem, drove me nuts!
But it can be solved...grab a beer bottle and place the insert over the neck of the bottle. Then, gently apply pressure downwards and this will gradually give your insert the correct shape it needs.
take your time, offer it back up to the bezel every so often, eventually it will fit snug. The bottle neck makes sure the insert stays perfectly round and in shape.

Good luck!!

Interesting and creative solution