🛠️ How to replace a watch glass? Practical guide

Do you want to change the glass of your watch, not because it is broken, but to give it an aesthetic or technical update?
Don't panic! In this tutorial, you'll learn how to replace your watch glass yourself , like a true amateur watchmaker. 🕰️💪

🧰 Materials needed to change a watch glass

Before you begin, prepare the following equipment:

• ✅ A new glass with the correct diameter → see our watch glasses

• ✅ A caliper (to precisely measure the old glass)

• ✅ A press or bracket for watch glass , or a crab clamp with claws (ideal for curved glass) → see our watchmaking tools

• ✅ A jaw case opener tool , or a watchmaker's knife/screwdriver

• ✅ A transparent plastic sheet or triple-thickness cling film (to protect surfaces)

• ✅ A blower or an anti-static brush → see our accessories

• ✅ A well-lit table, a little patience… and why not a coffee ☕ (optional but recommended)

📖 Step 1 – Identify the type of watch glass

First of all, determine the type of glass to replace:

• Plexiglas (acrylic) ➡️ Light and flexible, easy to scratch but can be polished.

• Mineral glass ➡️ Durable, but more difficult to replace than plexiglass.

• Sapphire crystal ➡️ Very hard, almost scratch-proof, but more expensive.

💡 Tip : Check the reference of your watch (often engraved on the back) or measure the glass precisely using the caliper.

🔧 Step 2 – Disassembling the watch

1. Remove the bezel using a thin blade if necessary.

2. Turn the watch over and open the back with the appropriate tool.

3. Always use protection (plastic sheet) to avoid scratches.

4. If the watch is automatic, carefully pull out the crown.

5. Carefully remove the movement, without forcing it.

6. Inspect seals and internal components.

🧽 Step 3 – Remove the old glass

Depending on the type of attachment:

• Use a glass press (recommended for flat mineral or sapphire glasses).

• Or a crab claw clamp (ideal for curved plexiglass).

➡️ Carefully clean the glass housing with a brush or blower.

📏 Tip : Measure the exact diameter of the housing and add 0.1 mm to order the correct replacement glass.

🪞 Step 4 – Install the new glass

1. Center the new glass flat on the housing.

2. Use the press with a tip slightly larger than the glass.

3. Press gently and evenly until you hear a small “click” of it locking into place.

✨ Step 5 – Cleaning & Reassembly

1. Blow or clean any remaining dust from the case.

2. Wind the movement, crown and bezel.

3. Close the bottom and check for leaks.

🏁 Result: a watch like new!

🎉 Congratulations! You've just given your watch a new lease of life by replacing its glass.
It's a meticulous operation but accessible with the right tools and a little watchmaking passion . 😉

❓ FAQ – Replacing a watch glass

Can you change a watch glass yourself?
Yes, with the right tools and a little patience. For a sapphire crystal or a valuable watch, it's best to leave the repair to a professional.

What type of glass should I choose?

• Plexi for a vintage restoration.

• Mineral for good value for money.

• Sapphire for optimal resistance.

Where to buy a replacement watch glass?
👉 Discover our selection of Masar watch glasses , from Ø 8.8 mm to Ø 50 mm, in acrylic, mineral or sapphire, Swiss and Japanese manufacturing.