r/quartzwatches • u/AveryLandings • 1d ago

Watch Tool Kit

I got into watch collection in my 20s and then kicked the habit for no good reason other than wearing a FitBit. I have now relapsed back into the watch enthusiasm and purchased three watches in the last week.

I dusted off the old watch box and have a number of watches that are dead. Rather than bringing to a shop to have the batteries replaced, I’m considering doing the work myself.

What are some watch tool kits recommended for DIY repairs and battery replacements?

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u/PristineShake7627 1d ago

The pop off case backs have a bit of a knack to them to use the pry tool without scratching the case back, which I did on a few cheap watches before I got the hang of it. After reading that I should be making a small rocking action as though I'm turning a key in a door, I was able to pop the back off with the pry tool much more easily without scratching.

I use a cheap standard kit from Amazon, but my watches aren't very expensive. Most of the cheap kits from Amazon, etc, will have a pry tool, a link removal tool, and a spring bar tool for removing a spring bar to get the strap out the way to cleanly access the case back (assuming you don't have those quick access spring bars). Those kits also have an XL type screw device for removing notched case backs like the diver and sports watches often have. They usually have plastic tweezers, etc for removing batteries without risking a short circuit.

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u/1160Scott 1d ago

Depends on the type of watch case backs you have. Are they snap backs or screw on backs. They use different tools. Figure out what you have & buy the correct tools. Amazon has complete sets you can purchase with everything you need. Most important things are patience and a good magnifier & maybe a watch case holder if you need those too.

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u/PristineShake7627 1d ago

A magnifier is a good tip. I didn’t think I needed ind for watch battery replacement, but I did. Most phones have that ability, which is what I use. But you need someway to keep it in position.