Replacing Hands

[scooba]

I have just bought a PP 1665 SeaDweller,I realise and it was pointed out to me the hands have been replaced at some point in the last 50 years.my concern is when the movement is removed it is quite common for the minute markers to chip. So can the hands be replaced without removing the movement.

I have looked at lots of MK2 DRSD and nearly all have chips . Mine is at present perfect, if the hands can be replaced with the movement in the case great.But I think I would rather live with the Hand issues than obtain chipping to the dial.

[SearChart]

You'll have to take it out of the case, which is when chipping can occur if the watchmaker isn't careful enough.

[terryuk]

Originally Posted by scooba

I have just bought a PP 1665 SeaDweller,I realise and it was pointed out to me the hands have been replaced at some point in the last 50 years.my concern is when the movement is removed it is quite common for the minute markers to chip. So can the hands be replaced without removing the movement.

I have looked at lots of MK2 DRSD and nearly all have chips . Mine is at present perfect, if the hands can be replaced with the movement in the case great.But I think I would rather live with the Hand issues than obtain chipping to the dial.

If you're worried about damage to the dial, can't you simply remove the crystal, in order to change the hands?

[gbx]

Originally Posted by terryuk

If you're worried about damage to the dial, can't you simply remove the crystal, in order to change the hands?

You'd have to remove the bezel assembly to get the crystal off. And it'd be difficult to protect the dial in that configuration.

The watch looks great as it is! I'd leave it.

[goldfixer21]

Originally Posted by terryuk

If you're worried about damage to the dial, can't you simply remove the crystal, in order to change the hands?

Yes, this is possible. Removing the bezel, and mid case/crystal would make it possible to change the hands without removing the movement. I've done this before, though an actual watchmaker would have to say if it's smart.

[Mikemcnair]

Having done this many, many times, it is not difficult at all. More so, anyone with experience will not damage the dial at all, and IF one were to do so, they should be able to replace it. Part of doing the service is not making mistakes, the other part is knowing how (and being able to) correct them if you do.

Removing the forward portion of the watch is counter productive due to the proper way to set the hands with a hand press. Also, removal is best done from the plain of the dial, not slightly above as you would be if the dial were still seated beneath the rehaut.

[SearChart]

Originally Posted by goldfixer21

Yes, this is possible. Removing the bezel, and mid case/crystal would make it possible to change the hands without removing the movement. I've done this before, though an actual watchmaker would have to say if it's smart.

I wouldn't, if you have replaced it all and have the crystal and bezel back in place you need a proper pressure test.
The Rolex Fathometre uses water, if there's a minor leak you'll have water in your movement.

Any good watchmaker can replace the hands without damaging anything, don't worry about getting the whole thing out of the case.