Replace 321 bezels

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Alan Walker

·Aug 23, 2025

Can someone explain please what is involved in replacing a poor 321 bezel. Does the steel ring pull off or is it screwed on. I will keep the old one with the watch of course.
The Omega authorised repairers say they only fit original Omegs parts so I need to brief a non-Omega watchmaker.
I assume it’s easier to change the whole ring than prise out and potentially damage the inserts.

 

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Dan S

·Aug 23, 2025

The whole ring is popped off and replaced, the "insert" is not removable. There are a gazillion threads on the topic, including a famous video involving a casino chip.

Not really my business, but why are you using a non-Omega part on a cal 321 Speedmaster? A service bezel isn't terribly expensive.

https://omegaforums.net/threads/how-to-change-speedmaster-bezel.30633/

Thread 'How to change speedmaster bezel?' ·

hi guys

Probably going to buy a 145012 this friday but it has been at bienne where the do90 bezel has been replaced with a more modern one.

As I know myself I Will possibly try to change the...

emilio · Oct 20, 2015

 

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Alan Walker

·Aug 23, 2025

I have purchased a pulse meter bezel. I will use the watch when taking pulses.

 

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Alan Walker

·Aug 23, 2025

Why are the inserts on the market ? Like the spiralwinder ?

 

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Dan S

·Aug 23, 2025

I'm not familiar with the one you mentioned, but I believe that some Speedmaster models do have removable inserts. Not the standard Speedmaster Pro, though.

 

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Davidt

·Aug 23, 2025

A Alan Walker

Why are the inserts on the market ? Like the spiralwinder ?

Because you can pry out the bezel insert and glue in an aftermarket replacement but it will likely destroy the original insert in the process

 

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Alan Walker

·Aug 24, 2025

OK I will search on You Tube. I just want to know how the watchmaker changes a 321 bezel. Is there a special tool to pull it off and push on a new one ?
Or does he use a case opener and work his way round the edge ? How does he put on the new one ?
Is it a push fit ? Is it a secret ? I will look for an on-line description.
There are many bezels for sale on e-bay and Amazon and this forum so I am assuming it’s not rocket science ?

 

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Alan Walker

·Aug 24, 2025

Ok good old You Tube explained. There is a four bladed bezel removal tool on Amazon. Blades screw in and force it off. Then the watchmaker can replace using a glass press. I will try to find one who is prepared and equipped to do the job. Not easy outside Omega authorised companies

 

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Davidt

·Aug 24, 2025

Any half decent watchmaker can remove and reinstall a Speedmaster bezel assembly. I do it at home using a case knife or the poker chip method and reinstall using a press.

If you’re just doing it the once and have no experience I’d recommend just taking it to a watchmaker.

 

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M'Bob

·Aug 24, 2025

When replacing the bezel, there’s been a lot of discussion about the correct size die to use to press the bezel back on, as to not crack the crystal.

But what about the other side? In other words, for a Speedmaster, what size die should be used on the UNDERSIDE, to cradle the watch head? Thanks.