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My ETSY shop - purchase Citizen BN0151-09L & BN0150-28E Bezel Spacer inserts
OVERVIEW:
The Citizen Promaster BN0151-09L and BN0150-28E Dive watches are both compatible with SKX007 and SKX009 bezel inserts but need a spacer to compensate for the height differences. The spacer (available on the ETSY link above) allows for a plug-and-play installation and ease of customization of the bezel inserts. The reason an insert is necessary is because while the stock BN0150 bezel has the same outer and inner diameter, it is much thicker than the SKX007 and SKX009 Bezel inserts. If one was to try and use the SKX007 and SKX009 bezel inserts without a bezel spacer, the edge of the bezel would be much higher than the insert and the insert would come into contact with the watch crystal. This insert accounts for the crystal dimensions and provides the correct compensation for the height differential of the SKX007 and SKX009 Bezel inserts.
1. BEZEL REMOVAL:
Remove existing bezel from the watch using a case back tool. Insert the case back blade in between bezel and case, apply pressure to lever the bezel upward, and it should pop off without excessive force.
2. ORIGINAL BEZEL INSERT REMOVAL:
Once the Bezel is off, use the case back tool to lever and pry off the bezel insert from under the bezel so as not to scratch or damage the bezel or insert. You will notice some adhesive still on the bezel once insert is fully removed. Do not clean off original adhesive (unless you have an additional adhesive ring), but smooth out, flatten, and distribute any blobs/clumps so the bezel insert will sit flush and even.
3. SPACER TEST FITTING:
Test fit the spacer without the bezel to see if the bezel insert fits and spins freely within the watch case space and around the glass of the watch. Remove or smooth out any slight edge imperfections on the bezel insert (if any) using fine sandpaper, or even with a dry, new, dishwashing scour pad (using the green/grey abrasive side).
Make sure to clean and dry it off before the final install, or the adhesive bond will not be strong.
OPTIONAL: BEZEL AND INSERT TEST FIT
Additionally, you may remove the ring clip from the interior of the bezel and do a test fit by placing the insert into the bezel, and then placing the SKX bezel insert on top of the bezel insert without any adhesive. This will show you if all pieces fit correctly and to the correct height. Know that the adhesive thickness will raise the final height of the SKX bezel insert by a little.
Turn the bezel and make sure everything spins free and clear.
4. FINAL ASSEMBLY:
Install the spring clip back into the bezel (if removed for the optional fit test in the previous step).
IMPORTANT – Make sure the bezel’s rotating click spring is seated correctly. There are two “feet” on the spring which sits in two indents/holes within the watch case. Make sure they are seated properly or the bezel will not install correctly!
Install the bezel spacer into the watch bezel with the recession facing towards the posterior of the bezel (down, if it’s laying on a table), with NON-recessed flat side facing the anterior (up, if laying on a table) of the bezel (see spacer test fitting photo). Press spacer firmly onto the adhesive remaining within the bezel recession. The spacer is thin so be careful not to break the spacer. Push towards the outer supported edges of the spacer, rather than in the middle where it is not supported by the bezel.
Gently push the bezel back onto the watch casing. It should snap back into place and be able to rotate freely (with the clicking noises). Rotate the bezel till the 12 o’clock hour marker is equidistant between the ribbed outer ridges of the bezel.
Apply the new adhesive onto the new SKX bezel insert, then CAREFULLY line up the markings on the insert with the hour markers on the watch dial. Once that’s done, apply firm downward pressure to adhere the SKX bezel insert onto the bezel spacer. The insert should fit flush with the top face of the glass and edge of the bezel.
Install complete.
The image above shows a slightly non-centered bezel insert. Don’t be like this bezel install!
Meta
Dive watch enthusiasts seeking to elevate their timepiece functionality can explore using SKX007 and SKX009 Bezel inserts on their Citizen Promaster BN0151-09L and BN0150-28E watches. This installation guide delves into the importance of bezel spacers for a hassle-free installation, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal performance. The Citizen Promaster BN0151 and BN0150 Dive watches are noted for their compatibility with SKX007 and SKX009 Bezel inserts, opening up a world of customization possibilities for watch enthusiasts. The key to achieving an easy and workable integration lies in the use of a bezel spacer, facilitating a headache-free installation process.
One crucial aspect driving the need for an insert is the thickness disparity between the stock BN0150 bezel and the SKX007 and SKX009 bezel inserts. While the outer and inner diameters may align, the stock bezel insert is notably thicker. Attempting to use SKX007 and SKX009 Bezel inserts without a bezel spacer would result in the bezel insert being recessed, compared to the bezel edge with the insert also coming into contact with the watch crystal (due to lack of recessed flange on the bezel insert).
To address this issue, the bezel spacer acts as a vital intermediary, providing the necessary thickness compensation for the height differential between the stock and SKX007/SKX009 Bezel inserts. This ensures that the insert aligns perfectly with the watch crystal, avoiding any interference or damage. The plug-and-play nature of this installation process makes it accessible even for those new to watch customization.
The compatibility of the Citizen Promaster BN0151-09L and BN0150-28E Dive watches with SKX007 and SKX009 Bezel inserts, when coupled with a well-designed bezel spacer, offers watch enthusiasts a seamless and enjoyable customization experience. Customize your dive watch with a new aesthetic by using the bezel spacer, which ensures a perfect fit with a SKX bezel insert, and enhances both the aesthetics and functionality of the timepiece. Dive into the world of personalized watch customization and enjoy the unique blend of style and performance.