I have noticed that some of the vintage Seamasters, whether they are the 165.XXX range (non date)
or 166.XXX (date version) have armored crystals. I also notice that the 16X.003 has a removable bezel, Has anyone replaced a crystal on a 165.002 and if so, whether it has a removable bezel? I don't have one in my possession to check.
thanks in advance

 

If I recall correctly there is no removable bezel on 165.002, crystal removes easily with the correct tool.

 

I don't remember a removable bezel on my 166.002 either but it shouldn't make any difference. I replaced the crystal many years ago and wrote about it here.

You can just knock/press the crystal out from behind after removing the back and movement but, you need a proper crystal fitting press to mount the new one. Better to take it to a watchmaker or you could damage the case.

Regards, Chris

 

Thank you both ! Without having the watch in my hand, it is difficult to tell. I went through many webpages of images of the 165.002 to see if has a removable bezel but no luck! I know it may have seemed like a dumb question, however, if you look at the 166.002 in the link you posted Chris and at the image of a 166.003, they seem identical, but the 166.003 has a removable crystal! Thanks again!

 

I meant removable bezel not crystal!