Removing dried crystal glue

[Hudson777]

Is there a way to remove crystal glue from a bezel and glass hunting case crystal that is already hardened? I don't know if this was the UV kind, or the one that dries in the air, but whoever put it on did an awful job and I'd like to re-seat it.

Thanks

Hudson

 

[Cary Hurt]

Is there a way to remove crystal glue from a bezel and glass hunting case crystal that is already hardened? I don't know if this was the UV kind, or the one that dries in the air, but whoever put it on did an awful job and I'd like to re-seat it.

Thanks

Hudson

Hudson,

Try soaking the crystal and bezel in acetone for a little while. This will dissolve epoxy, as well as most other adhesives that I'm aware of. It won't harm a glass crystal or the bezel. Be careful with it, as it is highly flammable and has noxious fumes. It's available in paint departments at most stores, or as nail polish remover in the make-up department.


Once the adhesive is soften or dissolved, you can remove the crystal and clean the bezel. You may need to use a larger crystal if the previous owner found it necessary to use that much glue.

My two cents,

Cary Hurt

 

[Smudgy]

If it is crystal cement, alcohol will dissolve it.

 

[Hudson777]

Thank you!

 

[Brian C.]

It maybe a fine watchmaker's crazy glue.
Brian C.

 

[Don]

I have the UV kind and it comes off prety good using a sharp tooth pick.
No scratching on the metal this way.
Any way it works for me.
Don

 

[rleegabe]

Whether it's plastic or glass, I find a great cleaning product and cheap is soapy ammonia, you can buy it and any grocery store. I use it to soak my old movements and case before cleaning in the ultrasonic cleaner, it's also great on gold case's.

 

[le arsi]

The reason maybe that you asked this thread is because the glue is really very hard and if any alcohol or acetone did not do the trick then try my way but in a very skilled way. You can use a mini blow torch or alcohol lamp and apply heat to the hardened glue. Do not burn! Of course you have to remove the movement and other accessories for safety.