How to Open a Screw-Back Watch: A Comprehensive Guide
Opening a screw-back watch can seem daunting, but with the right tools and a little patience, it’s a task you can easily accomplish at home. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can safely access the watch movement for battery replacement, repairs, or simply to admire the intricate mechanics within.
**Why You Might Need to Open a Screw-Back Watch:**
* **Battery Replacement:** This is the most common reason. Quartz watches require battery changes every few years.
* **Cleaning:** Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate inside the watch, affecting its performance.
* **Repair:** If your watch isn’t working correctly, you might need to open it to diagnose and fix the problem.
* **Movement Inspection:** Watch enthusiasts sometimes open their watches simply to admire the movement.
* **Strap Removal/Adjustment:** Occasionally, accessing the spring bars for strap changes is easier with the back removed (though not usually necessary).
**Tools You’ll Need:**
Before you start, gather the following tools:
* **Watch Case Opener (Friction Ball, Rubber Ball, or Adjustable Case Opener):** This is the primary tool for unscrewing the case back. There are three main types:
* **Friction Ball/Rubber Ball:** These are soft, pliable balls that create friction against the case back, allowing you to grip and turn it. They’re ideal for watches that aren’t tightly sealed.
* **Adjustable Case Opener (Jaxa Tool):** This tool has adjustable pins that fit into the notches or indentations on the case back. It provides a more secure grip and is suitable for tighter case backs.
* **Sticky Ball:** Similar to a friction ball, a sticky ball provides enhanced grip for particularly stubborn case backs.
* **Case Cushion or Soft Cloth:** Protects the watch case from scratches during the opening process. A microfiber cloth works well.
* **Fine-Tipped Tweezers (Optional):** Useful for removing the battery or small components.
* **Magnifying Glass or Loupe (Optional):** Helps you see the details of the movement and small parts.
* **Dust Blower (Optional):** For removing dust and debris from the movement.
* **Finger Cots or Gloves (Optional):** Prevents fingerprints on the movement.
* **Small Container or Tray:** To keep track of any screws or small parts you remove.
* **Watch Movement Holder (Optional):** Provides a stable platform for working on the movement.
**Choosing the Right Case Opener:**
* **Friction Ball/Rubber Ball:** Start with this, especially if you’re new to opening watches. It’s less likely to scratch the case back. Apply firm, even pressure while turning.
* **Adjustable Case Opener (Jaxa Tool):** Use this if the friction ball doesn’t work. Ensure the pins are properly adjusted and securely engaged in the notches before applying pressure.
* **Sticky Ball:** Use this if a friction ball isn’t grippy enough but you’re still wary of using the Jaxa tool.
**Step-by-Step Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Your Workspace:**
* Clear a clean, well-lit workspace. This will help you avoid losing any small parts.
* Place the case cushion or soft cloth on your work surface to protect the watch from scratches.
2. **Secure the Watch:**
* Place the watch face down on the case cushion or soft cloth. Make sure the case back is facing up.
3. **Identify the Case Back Type:**
* Examine the case back closely. Screw-back watches typically have notches or indentations around the perimeter that the adjustable case opener pins will fit into. Some may simply have a textured surface for better grip with a friction ball. Note the direction the arrows, if any, indicate for opening.
4. **Using a Friction Ball/Rubber Ball:**
* Clean the case back with a microfiber cloth to remove any dirt or grease. This will improve the grip of the ball.
* Press the friction ball firmly against the case back, applying even pressure.
* Rotate the ball counterclockwise (left). You may need to apply significant force. If the ball slips, try cleaning the case back again or using a sticky ball.
* If the case back starts to loosen, continue unscrewing it by hand.
5. **Using an Adjustable Case Opener (Jaxa Tool):**
* **Adjust the Pins:** Carefully adjust the pins of the case opener to match the spacing and position of the notches or indentations on the case back. Ensure all pins are securely tightened.
* **Position the Opener:** Place the opener on the case back, aligning the pins with the notches. Make sure the pins are fully engaged.
* **Apply Pressure and Turn:** Apply firm, even downward pressure on the opener while turning it counterclockwise (left). You may need to use a considerable amount of force. *Important*: Maintain downward pressure to prevent the pins from slipping and scratching the case back.
* **Loosen and Unscrew:** Once the case back starts to loosen, you can usually unscrew it the rest of the way by hand.
6. **Removing the Case Back:**
* Once the case back is fully unscrewed, carefully lift it off the watch. Be gentle, as there may be a rubber gasket (O-ring) attached to the case back. Pay attention to its orientation for reassembly.
7. **Inspecting the Gasket (O-Ring):**
* The gasket is a rubber O-ring that seals the watch case, providing water resistance. Carefully inspect the gasket for any cracks, tears, or damage.
* If the gasket is damaged, it should be replaced to maintain the watch’s water resistance. You can usually find replacement gaskets online or at a watch repair shop.
* If the gasket is in good condition, you can clean it with a soft cloth and a small amount of silicone grease (optional). This will help to keep it flexible and maintain a good seal.
8. **Accessing the Movement:**
* With the case back removed, you now have access to the watch movement. Be careful not to touch the movement with your fingers, as oils and dirt can damage it.
9. **Battery Replacement (If Applicable):**
* If you are replacing the battery, locate the battery and note its orientation (positive and negative sides).
* Use fine-tipped tweezers or a small screwdriver to carefully remove the battery retaining clip or bracket.
* Remove the old battery and insert the new battery, ensuring it is correctly oriented.
* Replace the battery retaining clip or bracket.
10. **Cleaning (If Applicable):**
* Use a dust blower to remove any dust or debris from the movement. Be careful not to dislodge any small parts.
* Avoid using liquids or harsh chemicals to clean the movement.
11. **Reassembling the Watch:**
* **Replace the Gasket:** If you removed the gasket, carefully place it back into its groove on the case back. Ensure it is properly seated and not twisted.
* **Align the Case Back:** Align the case back with the watch case, making sure the notches or indentations are properly aligned (if applicable). Sometimes there will be a specific alignment to ensure the watch is reassembled with the crown in the correct position.
* **Screw the Case Back On:** Gently screw the case back on by hand, turning it clockwise (right). Be careful not to overtighten it.
* **Tighten with Case Opener (If Necessary):** If you used an adjustable case opener to remove the case back, you can use it to tighten it as well. Apply firm, even pressure while turning clockwise, but avoid overtightening. If you used a friction ball, simply tighten by hand until snug.
* **Test Water Resistance (Optional):** If you are concerned about water resistance, you can have the watch pressure-tested at a watch repair shop.
**Important Tips and Cautions:**
* **Be Patient:** Opening a screw-back watch can take time and patience. Don’t force anything, and be careful not to damage the watch.
* **Use the Right Tools:** Using the correct tools is essential for preventing scratches and damage to the watch.
* **Don’t Overtighten:** Overtightening the case back can damage the threads or the gasket.
* **Handle with Care:** The watch movement is delicate. Handle it with care and avoid touching it with your fingers.
* **Work in a Clean Environment:** A clean workspace will help you avoid losing small parts and prevent dust from entering the watch.
* **Take Pictures:** Before disassembling anything, take pictures of the movement and the battery compartment. This will help you remember how to put everything back together.
* **Seek Professional Help:** If you are not comfortable opening the watch yourself, or if you encounter any difficulties, it is best to take it to a professional watch repair shop.
* **Static Electricity:** Be mindful of static electricity, especially when handling electronic components like the battery. Ground yourself by touching a metal object before handling the movement or battery.
* **Observe the Case Back Threads:** Before reassembling, inspect the threads on both the case and the case back. If they appear damaged, consult a professional. Attempting to force a damaged thread can lead to further complications.
* **Consider Lubrication:** A very small amount of silicone grease on the case back threads can make future removals easier, but use sparingly to avoid attracting dirt.
* **Document Your Work:** Keep a record of the date you changed the battery or performed any other maintenance. This will help you track the watch’s performance over time.
**Troubleshooting:**
* **Case Back Won’t Budge:** If the case back is stuck, try applying a small amount of penetrating oil (such as WD-40) around the edge of the case back. Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen any corrosion or debris. Then, try again with the case opener.
* **Pins Keep Slipping:** Ensure the pins of the adjustable case opener are securely tightened and properly aligned with the notches on the case back. Applying more downward pressure can also help.
* **Gasket is Broken:** Replace the gasket with a new one of the correct size. You can usually find replacement gaskets online or at a watch repair shop. Measure the original gasket’s inside diameter and thickness to ensure a proper fit.
* **Movement Won’t Start After Battery Change:** Double-check that the battery is installed correctly, with the correct polarity (positive and negative sides). Also, check that the battery retaining clip or bracket is properly secured. If the movement still doesn’t start, there may be another problem that requires professional attention.
**Advanced Tips (For Experienced Watch Enthusiasts):**
* **Movement Holders:** For more complex repairs or modifications, a watch movement holder is invaluable. It securely holds the movement in place, allowing you to work on it without fear of dropping or damaging it.
* **Specialized Tools:** As you gain experience, you may want to invest in specialized tools such as a demagnetizer (to remove magnetism from watch parts) or a timing machine (to regulate the watch’s accuracy).
* **Online Forums and Resources:** There are many online forums and resources dedicated to watch repair and maintenance. These can be a great source of information and advice.
**Disclaimer:**
Opening a watch yourself can void the warranty and may cause damage if not done correctly. The author is not responsible for any damage caused by following these instructions. If you are not comfortable opening the watch yourself, it is best to take it to a professional watch repair shop.
By following these detailed steps and instructions, you can confidently open a screw-back watch and perform basic maintenance tasks like battery replacement. Remember to be patient, use the right tools, and handle the watch with care. Good luck!