Tips for installing armoured crystals

[mrkrsl]

I need some tips on installing armoured crystals. I just cracked one, trying to press it into my Seamaster 30.

Some details:

• I have a cheap press with nylon dies. I'd prefer not to buy a different press with aluminium dies if I can avoid that, but you might tell me that's the only option. I think I can exert plenty of force with the I've I have, but the dies certainly flex. I tried a few sizes before I killed the crystal.
• I read somewhere, possibly on here though I can't now find it, that filing a bevel around the leading edge helps. Is that true?
• The armoured crystal I have is exactly the same size as the standard plexi that has been in the watch for some time. The armoured one was Omega stock from Cousins (with the logo). The ring which detached from the broken one fits the recess well with maybe .5mm around it, so it looks like the right size. These are only available in a few sizes though, and the next size down would be much too small.

They're only a few quid, bit I’d prefer not to crack too many.

Any ideas most welcome. Thanks!

[Kalanag]

It is very important that your nylon die is chamfered and touches the chrystal near the outer edge only.

Edited February 5, 2023 by Kalanag

[mrkrsl]

On 2/5/2023 at 8:23 AM, Kalanag said:

It is very important that your nylon die is chamfered and touches the chrystal near the outer edge only.

Yes, it is chamfered. I tried 3 which exerted pressure at various positions on the crystal. Perhaps the break happened when I exerted pressure too high. Thanks for your help.