Conversion from Uni to Bi-directional Bezel

[nikoel]

Hey Guys

I'm not a diver and thus the uni-directional bezel is quite useless to me; and there are times in my job where it would have been great if I could turn the bezel the other way.

I have a six digit sub and unfortunately don't know much about the construction of the bezel; so here is my question: Is it possible to modify the watch to make the bezel spin both ways?

Many Thanks

Niko

 

[Stuvetjee]

Thats a very good and odd question lol perhaps you can ask some modders how to get the job done

 

[d4m.test]

Hi, I´m a diver and use the uni-directional bezel all the time to simulate either a stopwatch or countdown-timer. Unless You change the insert for a GMT-insert to have dual time (it does make sense and looks different/great) I can´t see the advantage, just turn the bezel faster until it´s where You want it to be.

Technically (please don´t quote me on this, it´s unverified) I think if the click-spring is removed You will also loose the 120 click-function (it will turn loosely in both directions).

Other solutions: the Yachtmaster is bidirectional (at least the gen is) and 4 digit vintage subs are bi-directional as well - but it´s easy to knock off the original position.

 

[darktheko]

If you have a 16610 sub, then just replace the click spring to Yachtmaster one. TC has the part. If yours is 116610 sub, then just get rid of the main click ball(out of 4, the main one only looks different). That resists the bi-directional rotation. Without the main click ball, there is no problem at all in function. it functions perfect with just 3 click balls. Good luck

 

[nikoel]

Thanks guys especially to a fellow Brisbanian (Brisbatarian...?). Basically some aircraft that I fly are PITAA & require at least one hand (usually the right) to remain on controls. So when I set the time for a leg I sometimes accidentally rotate the bezel a few clicks past where it needs to be. in that case I either have to re-rotate ~110 clicks or just leave it there and remember the error.

 

[cazwrx187]

If you're a pilot, get a GMT. That's what they are designed for.

You have a 6 digit sub, correct? If so, pop the bezel off. You will see 3 ball bearings on springs and one post on a spring that prevents the bezel from rotating backwards. Remove that post and your bezel will rotate both ways.

5 digit is different. If you remove the bezel click spring, it will rotate both way but wont stay in place.

I can't seem to find the pictures but I'm sure someone can chime in for me.