Q&A for How to Pry off a Watch Backing Without Proper Tools

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Are there any other ways to remove watch back covers without proper tools?

Bill Green
Jewelry & Watch Expert
Bill Green is an Expert Jeweler and Appraiser. He is also the Founder & Creative Director of Jewelry & Timepiece Mechanix, and the Founder and Designer of Amaroo Handmade Opal Jewelry, based in Haddonfield, New Jersey. With over 40 years of industry knowledge, he and his team are known for restoring everything from new watches to vintage jewels and being one of the few shops that still design and make jewelry and watches. Jewelry & Timepiece Mechanix is part of the American Society of Jewelers and Gemologists and Ethical Metalsmiths. Bill studied at the Miami Jewelry Institute and the Gemological Institute of America as well as apprenticed with many accomplished craftspeople.

Bill Green

Jewelry & Watch Expert

Expert Answer

I highly advise consulting a local watchmaker or jeweler for assistance. While it's possible to remove the back cover yourself, there's a risk of causing damage to the watch or breaking the gasket seals. This could result in costly repairs or scratches to the case. Seeking professional help ensures the job is done correctly and avoids potential mistakes.

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Question

How do I replace the backing cover of my watch? I pried it off with a thin bladed knife but it won't pop back together easily.

Community Answer

Try laying it upside down on a table and pushing down on the back evenly with a piece of wood.

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Question

How do I remove the back if there is no tab?

Community Answer

Some watches have screw-on case backs, which can usually be identified by notches cut into the case back or a coin-like edge. In this case, the proper tools are needed.

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Question

How do I open the back of a watch that has been smashed in too far?

Community Answer

In cases where the watch is damaged, you may need professional help to fix it. Contact a local jeweler or watch repair service to assess what needs to be done.

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Question

What do I do if I do not have that type of watch?

Community Answer

You need a watch opener tool set. You can buy a mediocre set on eBay for about $12, but it will work fine.

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Question

What do I do if I can't find any notches or indentations on the back of my watch to get the back off?

Community Answer

In that case, I would recommend taking your watch to a jeweler or other specialist so you don't accidentally damage it.

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Question

How to replace back cover?

Community Answer

If the back cover is damaged, replacement options will vary depending on your watch model. Contact a local jeweler or watch repair service to assess your options.

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Question

Should I stop my watch when I'm not using it?

Community Answer

I've stopped mine for a long time, and the initial battery still worked fine after a couple of years of inactivity. So I'd wager it preserves battery life by stopping it when you aren't using it, as I haven't changed the battery yet in mine.

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Question

How do I get the back off my Luv and Kush watch?

Community Answer

If there aren't any dents or notches on the watch and you cant use any of the tips above, then you would need the proper tools.

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Question

I have a Ninja Turtle watch from 2014, and I can't see any notches or anything that would help me pry it off. Does this watch need proper tools?

Community Answer

It is likely a pressure fit back. If so, this will require some sort of case back opening tool. Also, you could try to use methods described in this page.

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