I've been looking at vintage Submariners for a while. When the prices of 1680s got out of hand, I broadened my search, and recently picked up a really nice 16800. Serial dates it to 1980. 100% original, including the VE code bracelet; never been in the same room as a buffer; flawless dial. It recently underwent a full service at LA Watch Works, including stabilization of the hands which were starting to show some tarnish. It's the most accurate mechanical watch I own: +5 seconds in 2 weeks.

I do love acrylic crystals though, and against the better judgement of everyone I asked, I decided to put one on the watch. I took a chance on an aftermarket crystal from eBay, and it fit perfectly. Here's a brief pictorial of the tools involved:

1. Tried to remove the caseback with a standard tool; couldn't. Apparently LAWW really torqued this thing down.

2. Went with the LG Openall to get it off; that worked:


3. Removed the bezel with a Home Depot paint scraper and a Fayette R. Plumb hammer from the 1920's:


4. The crystal retaining ring on these watches is extremely tight; sometimes it's hard to tell it's a separate piece from the case. I carefully lifted it a tiny bit with a razor blade:


5. Then I used an eBay bezel tool to lift it most of the way:


6. And finished popping it off with a case knife:


7. I used a crystal press to (a) remove the sapphire crystal from the retaining ring (no damage, can be re-used) and (b) to install the new acrylic crystal:


I love the result. I understand the watch is no longer waterproof, but I have Seikos and Seamasters for diving.

 

Great (and brave) work you did. The crystal looks kinda weird on the watch, though, because it's more curved like on a Speedy than mostly flat like on the 1680. Also, no cyclops.

 

Thanks. I don't miss the cyclops, but the crystal is indeed not identical to the 1680. Having done this once, the second time will be a lot easier--so I'm on the lookout for acrylic crystals of the right size that might be a little flatter.

 

Cousins UK for a good supply of Plexys with all manner of different profiles with or without the cyclops. I don’t recall the cost of the last one I bought but it was only a few quid.

Shipping would depend on which side of the pond you’re on though.

Brave work on that beautiful piece

 

Nicely done - I'd be a nervous about pulling one of mine apart for that mod. I have a 5513 and 1675 and love the look of the acrylic. I recently purchased an Omega Speedmaster and chose acrylic over crystal on that. I do have watches with crystal and they look great, but there is something warm and classic about the acrylic.

 

it looks great but i could never do it. the reference has gotten too expensive. if they were still $5k, id be tempted. ahh, im still tempted!

 

That crystal without the cyclops with the date window really reminds me of the acrylic SDs. I love the look! Great job for sure.

 

Amazing job and nice read but I will stick with sapphire. Looks good!

 

Interesting idea, and agree with others, brave work, depending on your levels of expertise! I don't think I would ever do it to mine but thanks for showing this is possible.

 

very nice. i'm personally thinking changing out my cylops of my 1670. i've seen my friend's 1680 without the cyclops and i thought i'll never say this but it looks great. gives the dial more "balance"

 

Love the result, nicely done. I also replaced the crystal on my 1680 for nicer clean look.

 

Good to see you haven’t botched the operation - not something I’d ever attempt - so kudos there.

I’m not a fan of the new crystal profile, but if it suits you, that’s all that matters.

 

Apologies for the thread bump but can you share the details or link to the plexi you used?

 

I also have a 16800 and dislike the cyclops. I’m not sure I’d go as far as replacing the crystal but can the cyclops be popped off?

I’m thinking about doing the same with my 16750 (which does have acrylic)

 

Forgot to include a photo of my 16800

 

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There are several youtube videos where people use a mini-torch and scalpel blade to remove the cyclops. Seems insane to me. I'd recommend taking it to a watchmaker and having the crystal replaced.

 

I love plastic. Old money!