Granddad’s watch

[Corstjens1]

I inherited my grandad’s watch a year ago and absolutely love everything about it. The Crystal however raises some questions within myself and I can’t stop thinking about what would happen if the Crystal finally broke or if it would love the watch even more by seeing the dial more cleary and other sorts of ideas but does anybody know if there are crystals from Pontiac or if I can fit another Crystal on the watch ? Thanks in advance! 

[oldhippy]

It looks like a tension white metal ring glass. The movement needs to be taken out of its case. The old glass should just push out and the diameter of the old glass measured. Order one from a supplier of watch material stating you want a glass with white metal.   You will need the correct tool for fitting the new glass. 

[KOwatch]

worth polishing it first with polywatch, much less trouble. If the scratches are particularly deep take them out first with a few rounds with wet sandpaper moving up grits of 800,1200,2000,2500 or similar before the polywatch. Together sandpaper and polywatch should cost you less than $10.

[VWatchie]

In nine out of ten cases, the mentioned sandpaper and polywatch method will make the crystal look like brand new! In your case I’m pretty sure polywatch should be enough. Remember to show us the finished result when done please!

[LittleWatchShop]

Ditto sandpaper and  polywatch. i stop at 2000 and then polywatch.

[oldhippy]

Polishing out scratches is fine providing they are not too deep. If they are replacing is best as polishing can weaken the glass and your watch face and hands might not be so protected as you think.

[WatchingOracle]

12 hours ago, VWatchie said:

In nine out of ten cases, the mentioned sandpaper and polywatch method will make the crystal look like brand new! In your case I’m pretty sure polywatch should be enough. Remember to show us the finished result when done please!

This is exactly where I plan on starting being a total 'noob' with the movements. I want to see what can be achieved with polishing of intact 'good' crystals. I've seen Mike at My Retro Watches on Youtube do the damaged crystals in-situ and come away with some really great results. Is polishing and sanding them that the best way or is it better to remove the crystal first?

[VWatchie]

If all that’s required is Polywatch you can leave the crystal in the case. However, if sandpaper is needed I always remove the crystal first. Be careful not sandpaper the circumference/sides of the crystal as it will reduce the diameter. Did this on an Omega original crystal which would then no longer fit. Not a happy day.

[WatchingOracle]

18 minutes ago, VWatchie said:

Be careful not sandpaper the circumference/sides of the crystal as it will reduce the diameter. Did this on an Omega original crystal which would then no longer fit. Not a happy day.

Ohh that sounds painful! I was thinking that the watch in particular I was thinking of trying this on was going to need some sanding. I was thinking of removing the crystal but I also think this case needs to be refinished. It is probably best to remove the crystal as you suggest. I don't as yet have access to a crystal press so I will wait on this a bit.

[oldhippy]

40 minutes ago, WatchingOracle said:

This is exactly where I plan on starting being a total 'noob' with the movements. I want to see what can be achieved with polishing of intact 'good' crystals. I've seen Mike at My Retro Watches on Youtube do the damaged crystals in-situ and come away with some really great results. Is polishing and sanding them that the best way or is it better to remove the crystal first?

If it is a round glass I would say you should be OK with it in the case, if it's a shaped glass then definitely remove it as shaped such as square have corners and are more prone to letting in dirt/ dust.  

[LittleWatchShop]

I would leave the crystal installed.  You can get painters tape and carefully protect the case.  If you remove the crystal, you will need the proper tool to install it.  If you have never done this...you run the risk of breaking it.  I dont think you will have a problem finding a replacement if you do break it, but why take a chance. 

I would start with polywatch and no sanding and see if you like the result.