What Are Some Best Tips on How to Remove a Watch Back with Notches?

Removing a watch back with notches, often referred to as a “snap-on” or “pressure-fit” case back, requires the use of a specialized tool known as a case back wrench or case opener. Here are some tips on how to how to remove watch back with notches back safely and effectively with notches:

  1. Identify the Type of Notches:
    • Examine the notches on the watch back to determine their shape and configuration. Some case backs have notches that are evenly spaced, while others may have a combination of larger and smaller notches.
  2. Select the Right Tool:
    • Choose a case back wrench or opener that matches the type and size of notches on the watch back. Some case backs may require a two-pronged wrench, while others may need a three-pronged or four-pronged tool.
  3. Prepare Your Workspace:
    • Work on a clean, well-lit surface with sufficient space. Lay down a soft cloth or watchmaker’s mat to protect the watch’s crystal and case.
  4. Secure the Watch:
    • Ensure the watch is securely held in place to prevent slipping or damage during the process. You can use a watch holder or a watchmaker’s bench block to keep the watch stable.
  5. Choose the Right Prongs:
    • If your case opener has adjustable prongs, select the ones that fit securely into the notches on the watch back. Adjust the prongs as needed to achieve a snug fit.
  6. Apply Even Pressure:
    • Gently position the prongs of the case opener into the notches on the watch back. Ensure that the prongs are fully engaged and aligned with the notches. Apply even and steady pressure to turn the case back counterclockwise (lefty loosey).
  7. Turn Slowly and Carefully:
    • Be patient and turn the case back slowly. Avoid using excessive force, as this can damage the notches, case, or movement. If the case back doesn’t budge, do not force it; seek professional assistance.
  8. Keep a Firm Grip:
    • Maintain a firm grip on the case back wrench or opener to prevent it from slipping. Ensure that the watch is securely held in place to avoid any accidental movement.
  9. Inspect the Gasket or Seal:
    • If the watch is water-resistant, check for a gasket or rubber seal on the case back. Ensure that it is in good condition and properly seated to maintain the watch’s water resistance.
  10. Use Proper Techniques for Tight Case Backs:
    • For exceptionally tight or stubborn case backs, you can use additional techniques like warming the watch gently with a hairdryer to expand the metal slightly, making it easier to open. Avoid using excessive heat, as it can damage the watch.
  11. Exercise Caution with Vintage Watches:
    • Vintage watches may have delicate case backs, so exercise extra caution when working on them. If you are unsure, consider seeking professional help.
  12. Keep Track of Screws and Parts:
    • If the case back is secured with screws, take care not to lose them. Use a suitable screwdriver to remove the screws before opening the case.

Remember that opening a watch case back requires precision and care. If you’re unsure of your skills or encounter difficulties, it’s advisable to seek assistance from a professional watchmaker to avoid any damage to the watch or its components.

What Are Some Best Tips on How to Remove Watch Back Without Notches

Removing a watch back without notches, often referred to as a “screw-down” case back, typically involves a different set of tools and techniques compared to notched case backs. Here are some tips on how to remove watch back without notches:

  1. Identify the Type of Case Back:
    • Determine whether the watch has a screw-down case back. These case backs usually have a smooth, flat surface without notches or indentations.
  2. Gather the Required Tools:
    • To remove a screw-down case back, you will need specialized tools:
      • Case Back Wrench: A case back wrench with adjustable pins or jaws to grip the case back securely.
      • Case Back Opener Knife: In some cases, a case back opener knife with a thin, flat blade may be used to gently pry open the case back.
      • Watch Holder: A watch holder or bench block to stabilize the watch while working on it.
  3. Secure the Watch:
    • Place the watch securely in a watch holder or on a bench block to prevent movement and minimize the risk of scratches.
  4. Prepare Your Workspace:
    • Work on a clean and well-lit surface with adequate space to maneuver your tools.
  5. Inspect for a Gasket or Seal:
    • Check if the watch case is water-resistant. If it is, there may be a rubber gasket or seal between the case back and the watch case. Inspect the condition of the gasket and ensure it is properly seated and intact.
  6. Position the Case Back Wrench:
    • If using a case back wrench, adjust the wrench to fit the size of the case back. Ensure that the pins or jaws of the wrench align properly with the recesses on the case back.
  7. Apply Counterclockwise Pressure:
    • Apply steady and even counterclockwise (lefty loosey) pressure to the case back wrench to turn the case back. Start with gentle pressure and gradually increase as needed. Be patient and avoid using excessive force.
  8. Use the Case Back Opener Knife (if necessary):
    • In some cases, you may need to use a case back opener knife to gently pry open the case back. Insert the thin blade of the knife between the case back and the watch case and apply gentle upward pressure. Exercise caution to avoid damaging the watch or slipping and injuring yourself.
  9. Inspect and Clean:
    • After successfully removing the case back, inspect the gasket or seal for damage and replace it if necessary. Clean the case back and the case interior to remove any dirt or debris.
  10. Reassemble Carefully:
    • When reassembling the watch, ensure that the gasket or seal is correctly seated to maintain the watch’s water resistance. Use proper torque specifications to tighten the case back securely.
  11. Seek Professional Help (if unsure):
    • If you encounter difficulties or are unsure about the process, consider seeking assistance from a professional watchmaker to avoid any damage to the watch or its components.

Remember that opening a screw-down case back requires precision and the right tools. Be patient and gentle in your approach to avoid any potential damage to the watch or the case.