Knowing how to get the back off of a wristwatch is an essential skill for anyone who owns and wears them. There may come a time when you need to access the inside of the watch to replace batteries, repair the movement, or to simply clean the inside of the watch. There are many different types of watch backs, and thus different types of watch case openers that are required to remove them. In this article, we will discuss the most common types of wristwatch backs, and how to remove them.
The first step in removing the back of a wristwatch is to identify the type of watch back that you have. The most common types of watch backs are screw-back, snap-back, and bayonet-back. Screw-back watch backs are the most common type, and they are held in place by several small screws. Snap-back watch backs are held in place by a metal ring that snaps into place. Bayonet-back watch backs are held in place by a bayonet-type fitting that locks into place. Once you have identified the type of watch back that you have, you can then choose the appropriate watch case opener to remove it.
To remove a screw-back watch back, you will need a watch case opener that has a set of small screwdrivers. The screwdrivers should be small enough to fit into the slots on the watch back screws. Once you have the appropriate screwdriver, you can then carefully unscrew the screws that are holding the watch back in place. Once the screws are removed, you can then gently pry the watch back off of the watch case. To remove a snap-back watch back, you will need a watch case opener that has a set of snap-back pliers. The snap-back pliers should be placed on the metal ring that is holding the watch back in place. Once the snap-back pliers are in place, you can then carefully pry the metal ring off of the watch case. This will release the watch back and allow you to remove it from the watch case. To remove a bayonet-back watch back, you will need a watch case opener that has a bayonet-type fitting. The bayonet-type fitting should be placed on the bayonet-type fitting on the watch back. Once the bayonet-type fitting is in place, you can then carefully twist the watch back off of the watch case.
Preparation Before Starting
Before you begin the process of removing the back of a wristwatch, it is crucial to take the necessary preparatory steps to ensure a successful and safe procedure. Here’s a comprehensive guide to prepare before starting:
Gather Essential Tools and Materials
The first step is to gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need the following:
- Watchmaker’s knife or case opener: A specialized tool designed to safely remove watch backs.
- Caseback press: A device used to press the watch back back into place after removing it.
- Microfiber cloth: To clean the watch and tools.
- Gloves: To protect your hands and the watch.
- Magnifying glass or loupe: To inspect small parts and ensure precision.
- Small bowl or container: To hold loose screws or parts for safekeeping.
- Toothpicks or tweezers: To remove dust or debris from the watch.
Properly Position and Secure the Watch
It is essential to position and secure the watch correctly before removing the back. This will prevent it from slipping or being damaged during the process. Here’s how:
- Use a watchmaker’s case holder: This device securely holds the watch in place, allowing for precise and stable work.
- Place the watch in a vice with padded jaws: Ensure that the vice is gently tightened to prevent scratching or damaging the watch.
- Secure the watch with tape: Carefully tape the watch to a stable surface, such as a workbench or table.
Identify the Type of Watch Back
Before attempting to remove the back, identify the type of watch back the watch has. Common types include:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Screw-back | Held in place by screws around the perimeter of the watch case. |
| Snap-back | Held in place by friction and pops into place with a press. |
| Bayonet-back | Uses a bayonet-style locking mechanism to secure the back onto the case. |
Identify the Type of Back
The first step is to identify the type of back your wristwatch has. There are three main types of watch backs:
- Snap-on backs are the most common type. They are held in place by a ring that snaps into a groove on the watch case.
- Screw-on backs are held in place by screws. They are more secure than snap-on backs, but they can be more difficult to remove.
- Bayonet backs are held in place by a bayonet-style fitting. They are less common than the other two types of backs, but they are very secure.
To identify the type of back your watch has, look at the edge of the case. If you see a groove, you have a snap-on back. If you see screws, you have a screw-on back. If you see a bayonet-style fitting, you have a bayonet back.
Remove the Back
Once you have identified the type of back your wristwatch has, you can remove it.
Snap-on Backs
To remove a snap-on back, use a watchmaker’s knife or a thin, flat object. Insert the knife or object into the groove on the edge of the case and gently pry the back off. Be careful not to damage the back or the watch case.
Screw-on Backs
To remove a screw-on back, you will need a small screwdriver. Unscrew the screws that are holding the back in place. Be careful not to strip the screws.
Bayonet Backs
To remove a bayonet back, use a watchmaker’s knife or a thin, flat object. Insert the knife or object into the slot on the edge of the case and gently pry the back off. Be careful not to damage the back or the watch case.
| Back Type | Removal Method |
|---|---|
| Snap-on | Pry off with watchmaker’s knife or thin, flat object |
| Screw-on | Unscrew with small screwdriver |
| Bayonet | Pry off with watchmaker’s knife or thin, flat object |
Proper Tools and Materials
To perform the watch disassembly safely and efficiently, you will need the following tools and materials:
Case Back Opener
This specialized tool is designed to fit the specific notches or grooves found on the watch’s case back. It applies leverage to the back by using adjustable tines that engage with the notches.
Case Wrench or Spanner
A case wrench or spanner is a specialized tool with a cylindrical head and adjustable jaws, used to grip and loosen or tighten the watch’s case back. It provides better grip and control compared to other tools.
Case Knife or Scalpel
A case knife or scalpel is a thin, sharp blade used to gently pry open the case back when there are no notches or grooves for a case back opener. It should be used with caution to avoid scratching or damaging the watch.
Microfiber Cloth
A microfiber cloth is used to clean the watch surfaces and remove any dirt or debris before opening. It helps prevent scratches and ensures a clean work environment.
### Table of Watch Back Opening Tools:
| Tool | Purpose |
|—|—|
| Case Back Opener | Loosening or tightening the case back using notches or grooves |
| Case Wrench or Spanner | Gripping and loosening or tightening the case back |
| Case Knife or Scalpel | Prying open the case back in the absence of notches or grooves |
| Microfiber Cloth | Cleaning watch surfaces before opening |
Removing the Wristband
Removing the wristband is typically the first step in taking the back off a wristwatch, as it allows access to the watch’s case back. Depending on the model, there are various methods for removing the wristband:
1. Pin and Collar System
In this system, small pins are used to secure the wristband links together. To remove a link, use a pin removal tool to push the pin out from the side of the link. Once the pin is removed, the link can be separated.
2. Screw System
With this system, screws are used to connect the wristband links. To remove a link, use a small screwdriver to unscrew the screw and separate the link.
3. Hidden Release Button
Some wristbands have hidden release buttons located near the clasp. To remove the wristband, press the button and pull the wristband apart.
4. Spring Bar System
This system utilizes small spring bars to secure the wristband to the watch case. To remove the wristband, use a spring bar tool to compress the spring bar and slide it out from one side.
5. Integrated Wristband
In this design, the wristband is directly connected to the watch case and cannot be removed. This type of wristband typically requires specialized tools and techniques to access the watch’s case back.
| Wristband Removal Method | Tools Required |
|---|---|
| Pin and Collar System | Pin removal tool |
| Screw System | Small screwdriver |
| Hidden Release Button | None |
| Spring Bar System | Spring bar tool |
Loosening the Back Using a Case Wrench
If you don’t have a case opener or are unable to use one, you can try loosening the watch back using a case wrench. This tool is specifically designed for opening watch backs and is available in various sizes to fit different watches.
Follow these steps to loosen the watch back using a case wrench:
- Choose the appropriate size case wrench for your watch.
- Place the watch in the case wrench and secure it by gently tightening the wrench.
- Hold the watch firmly in one hand and the case wrench in the other.
- Apply gentle pressure and turn the case wrench counterclockwise to loosen the watch back.
- If the back does not loosen immediately, increase the pressure gradually while continuing to turn the wrench counterclockwise.
- Once the back is loose, you can remove it by carefully prying it open with a thin tool, such as a watchmaker’s knife or a thin screwdriver.
Tips for Using a Case Wrench:
- Use a case wrench that is the correct size for your watch. Using an incorrect size wrench can damage the watch back or the wrench itself.
- Apply gentle pressure and turn the wrench slowly to avoid damaging the watch back.
- If the back does not loosen easily, do not force it. You may need to use a different tool or take the watch to a watchmaker.
Opening the Back with a Case Knife
A case knife is specifically designed to open watch backs. It features a thin, sharp blade that can easily slip between the case and the back. To use a case knife, follow these steps:
1. Choose the Right Blade
Case knives come with different blade shapes and sizes. Choose a blade that is appropriate for the size and type of watch you are working on.
2. Prepare the Watch
Securely hold the watch in one hand, with the back facing upwards. Place a soft cloth or pad underneath the watch to protect it from scratches.
3. Insert the Blade
Carefully insert the blade of the case knife into the gap between the case and the back. Use gentle pressure and avoid damaging the watch.
4. Pry the Back Open
Once the blade is inserted, use it to gently pry the back open. Start from one side and work your way around the entire circumference.
5. Check for a Gasket
Before removing the back completely, check if there is a gasket between the case and the back. If there is, carefully remove it and set it aside.
6. Remove the Back
Once the gasket is removed, you can gently lift the back off the watch. Be careful not to drop or lose any small parts.
7. Inspect the Back and Gasket
Before reassembling the watch, inspect the back and the gasket for any damage or wear. If the gasket is damaged or worn, it should be replaced to ensure a water-resistant seal.
Here is a table summarizing the key steps involved in using a case knife to open the back of a wristwatch:
| Step | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Choose the right blade shape and size for your watch. | |
| 2 | Securely hold the watch and place a protective cloth or pad underneath. | |
| 3 | Carefully insert the blade of the case knife into the gap between the case and the back. | |
| 4 | Use gentle pressure to pry the back open, starting from one side and working around the entire circumference. | |
| 5 | Check for a gasket between the case and the back and carefully remove it. | |
| 6 | Gently lift the back off the watch, avoiding dropping or losing small parts. | |
| 7 | Inspect the back and the gasket for any damage or wear before reassembling the watch. |
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Use a soft, lint-free cloth | Use abrasive materials |
| Rinse with lukewarm water | Submerge in water |
| Use a leather cleaner for leather bands | Use alcohol or harsh chemicals |
| Remove grease with a cotton ball | Use too much rubbing alcohol |
| Use a crystal protector | Bump against hard surfaces |
Tightening the Back
Once the gasket has been replaced, it’s time to tighten the back of the watch. This should be done carefully to avoid damaging the watch or the gasket. Here are the steps on how to tighten the back of a wrist watch:
Using a Watch Caseback Press
If you have a watch caseback press, this is the easiest and safest way to tighten the back of your watch.
1. Place the watch face down on the press.
2. Align the caseback with the press.
3. Slowly press down on the handle until the back is tight.
Using a Watchmaker’s Hammer and Punch
If you don’t have a watch caseback press, you can use a watchmaker’s hammer and punch to tighten the back of your watch.
1. Place the watch face down on a soft surface, such as a piece of cloth.
2. Align the punch with the edge of the caseback.
3. Gently tap the punch with the hammer until the back is tight.
4. Be careful not to hit the watch too hard, as this could damage it.
Using a Screwdriver
If your watch has a screw-on back, you can use a screwdriver to tighten it.
1. Place the watch face down on a soft surface.
2. Insert the screwdriver into the slot on the back of the watch.
3. Turn the screwdriver clockwise until the back is tight.
4. Be careful not to overtighten the back, as this could damage the watch.
Using a Watch Back Wrench
A watch back wrench is a tool that is specifically designed to tighten the back of a watch.
1. If you have a watch back wrench, place the watch face down on a soft surface.
2. Align the wrench with the back of the watch.
3. Turn the wrench clockwise until the back is tight.
4. Be careful not to overtighten the back, as this could damage the watch.
| Method | Difficulty | Tools Required |
|---|---|---|
| Using a Watch Caseback Press | Easy | Watch caseback press |
| Using a Watchmaker’s Hammer and Punch | Moderate | Watchmaker’s hammer and punch |
| Using a Screwdriver | Easy | Screwdriver |
| Using a Watch Back Wrench | Easy | Watch back wrench |
Cleaning Up and Final Preparations
Before you begin assembling the watch, it’s essential to ensure that all components are clean and free of debris.
Wipe Down the Components
Using a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe down the watch case, crystal, and band to remove any dirt or fingerprints.
Brush Away Debris
Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove any loose debris or hair from the movement and other components.
Inspect the Gasket
Examine the gasket (the rubber seal between the case and back) for any damage or wear. If it appears compromised, replace it with a new gasket.
Lubricate the Threads
Apply a small amount of watch lubricant to the threads of the case back to ensure smooth closure and prevent damage.
Secure the Back with Screws
Carefully insert the screws into the case back and tighten them until they are snug. Do not overtighten.
Check for Alignment
Ensure that the back is aligned correctly with the case and that all screws are securely tightened.
Restore Water Resistance
If the watch is water-resistant, use a waterproof tester or dunk it in water to check its integrity. If water seeps in, inspect the gasket and ensure it is properly seated.
Verify Timekeeping
Check the timekeeping accuracy of the watch. If it’s running too fast or too slow, adjust the regulator to calibrate it.
Clean the Watch Again
Once assembled, wipe down the watch once more with a clean cloth to remove any fingerprints or debris.
How To Take The Back Off A Wrist Watch
There are a few different ways to take the back off a wrist watch, depending on the type of watch you have. If you have a watch with a screw-on back, you will need a small screwdriver to remove the screws. If you have a watch with a snap-on back, you can use a butter knife or a thin coin to pry the back off. If you have a watch with a pressure-fit back, you will need to use a watch press to remove the back.
Once you have removed the back of the watch, you will be able to access the watch’s movement. The movement is the part of the watch that keeps time. If you need to repair or replace the movement, you will need to remove it from the watch. To remove the movement, you will need to unscrew the screws that hold it in place.
Once you have removed the movement, you can access the watch’s battery. The battery is what powers the watch. If the battery is dead, you will need to replace it. To replace the battery, you will need to unscrew the screws that hold it in place.
People Also Ask
How do I know what type of watch back I have?
There are a few ways to tell what type of watch back you have. First, look at the back of the watch. If you see screws, then you have a screw-on back. If you see a small notch or groove, then you have a snap-on back. If you don’t see any screws or notches, then you have a pressure-fit back.
What tools do I need to remove a watch back?
The tools you need to remove a watch back will depend on the type of watch back you have. If you have a screw-on back, you will need a small screwdriver. If you have a snap-on back, you can use a butter knife or a thin coin. If you have a pressure-fit back, you will need a watch press.
Can I remove a watch back myself?
Yes, you can remove a watch back yourself, but it is important to be careful. If you are not careful, you can damage the watch. If you are not comfortable removing the watch back yourself, you can take it to a jeweler or watch repair shop.
