(Part 2) Best watch repair tools & kits according to redditors
We found 611 Reddit comments discussing the best watch repair tools & kits. We ranked the 162 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the products ranked 21-40. You can also go back to the previous section.
Yes, I'll be the first to admit that I spotted this combination on /r/frugalmalefashion. But I see nothing wrong with that, it's just a great look and a quality piece that I paid just under $100 for. This is an opportunity any broke post-grad watch lover will jump at. I was blown away at how much it matched what I was looking for in a chronograph, while somehow being just within my price range. The complex, yet still understated face, with the nicely trimmed tachymeter, mixed with the color offset of the brown leather, just sealed the deal for me. Call me a copy-cat, I'll still wear this watch proudly.
EDIT: For those wondering the exact model, it's an EF-503D-7AVDF, and I got it from an eBay vendor based in South Korea for about $80. Took about three and a half weeks to arrive, but it was worth the wait. The strap is a basic 20mm Timex oiled leather band. A little cheap looking, but it'll do until I can justify forking up $30+ for a strip of leather.
Looks like a watch case press: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Watch-Case-Press-Nylon-Dies/dp/B006KZ4MYO
This and the cell battery in there lead me to be fairly confident in this.
Edit: Found a better picture: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Handheld-Watch-Case-Back-Press-Jewelers-Repair-Hobby-Tool-11-Dies-Watchmakers/142011882554
watch case opener https://www.amazon.com/Opener-Wrench-Waterproof-Watches-Caseback/dp/B001PQNVOK
I believe it's a watch back remover.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001PQNVOK
It's to remove watch case backs. [https://www.amazon.com/Opener-Wrench-Waterproof-Watches-Caseback/dp/B001PQNVOK]
First off I'm no expert so please don't take my way of doing it as the best way but it'll get the job done.
The first tool you need is this as it gets you into the watch: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M16LHXS?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
If you want to change the crystal you will need this to pop out the existing crystal and press in the new one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PVNPSV2?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Changing the bezel insert is easy as it's glued down. I used a tool(tweezers) to pry it up and put a couple small dabs of cement glue down to secure the new one.
Mods:
Also if you change movements to a NH36 you can also change the day. Use the one from the old movement if you want the day to line up properly.
Others tools are me just using what I have around the house.
For videos search for "skx007 sapphire crystal replacement" on YouTube. The top three videos are good. Plus the people who made them have other instructional videos.
The good thing about these is that even if you break the movement, for $40 you can get an upgrade that has hacking and manual winding.
My advice is to try if you are ok with breaking it.
Patience is key. There are a lot more specialized tools that you can get for removing the hands and other task to do it properly.
Hope this helps. Feel free to ask any questions as I'll be glad to help you avoid the mistakes I made. Lol
Current tools in the box
From Amazon:
​
Also, this is the walkthrough video I used for reference when changing the movement.
​
Happy Modding!
You can buy a springbar tool or just use a knife blade (like I do). If you use a knife be careful not to scratch the case... a small sharp knife--like a pocket knife--works best.
Check out youtube for a 'how to' vid. Good luck!
I’ve heard good things about PolyWatch
Polywatch Poly Watch Plastic Crystal Glass Polish & Scratch Remover Repair Tool with blue cloth https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071F4X38N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_zliRDbCSMNANE
Yep. 20mm spring bar. They're pretty much all created equal. You might as well get something like this and never have to worry about it again, but there are a bunch of options on amazon and elsewhere. Anywhere that sells watches will probably have them if you don't want to wait for shipping.
You also might want a spring-bar tool to put it in. You can do it without a specialized tool but it makes it much easier. I have this one and it works great.
Get a spring bar tool, or find something you could use as one. Small needlenose pliers would work or some tweezers maybe https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B002Q8AJKK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_ePbRBb6356C0P
Polywatch Poly Watch Plastic Crystal Glass Polish & Scratch Remover Repair Tool with blue cloth https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071F4X38N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_mbF0CbZXA7A83
We got the [Yosoo 360 piece spring kit] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00ZFNRZRI) and a spring bar from Michaels. There's also this one which might work as well : https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B011947OY0/
For whatever reason it seems like getting a variety of sizes is cheaper than getting the exact size you need.
Sure thing...
HAOBAIMEI 168 PCS Watch Repair... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075LM4332?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Zacro Watch Press Set, Watch Back... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073PW85HS?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Watch Demagnetizer, Watch Repair Screwdriver Tweezers, Mechanical/Quartz Watch Electrical Demagnetise Demagnetizer Tools XCQ01 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H9YC4DJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_m4KoDb61SW3DV
The one I bought on Amazon came with a little cloth with it.
Polywatch Poly Watch Plastic... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071F4X38N?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
what;s the best general purpose watchback opener? not expensive, best if i coudl amazon prime it
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IP1983U/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?smid=A2CGN80EVS3S24&psc=1 is one im considering
Keeping the bracelet fitting and battery changing in mind, I’ll link to this one: https://www.amazon.com/Vastar-Repair-Watch-Professional-Carrying/dp/B07H8D23L6/
Basically this one has no tools that you wouldn’t use, eventually. If you get a different kit, well, look at this as a shopping list or a point of comparison.
They’re all cheap tools, and I’d be careful about slipping when using the three-point screw-down caseback tool (which is probably very wobbly and prone to slipping and scratching the watch).
Technically, you should use a case back press, but you could try very gently tapping it with a nylon hammer (if you have one) around the edges
I bought all my materials from Amazon and I've done about 3 Mods.
Heres a little documentation of my 1st one.
Seiko 5 Mod; PAM Cali Dial & Sword Hands & some more photos
Some things that I suggest you get before starting.
Let me know if you've any questions, I'd be willing to help you out and answer them to the best of my ability :)
Cheers!
note that you may need a tool to both open the case back and close it again. If the watch has a domed crystal and a snap case, it can be very difficult to apply enough force to snap the caseback on again without potentially damaging the crystal. That's what the watch press tool is for. If you have a screw back, you'll just need a wrench that can engage the indentations on the case back so you can unscrew it. I got a cheap kit like this one, which has both a special knife for opening snap backs and the wrench for opening screw backs
Unless you plan to be doing this hundreds of times, I think the cheapo tools are just fine. Higher quality tools will last longer and be easier to use, which may only really matter if you need to use them with great frequency.
It depends on the type of watch you have. If the back of the watch looks like this, you can use one of these tools to open it. Link
Some other backs have no lugs to grasp and therefore you'd need a knife tool and possibly a watch jig to push the back on with the correct pressure.
Once it's open it's super easy to change the battery. Don't spend the $75 lifetime unless you're working with really high end watches that are better left to the pros, or it's a difficult case to open. But instead of paying $300, you can buy all the equipment you need for around $50 and do those watches, plus all future ones you acquire, for free.
Just buy a non-pebble steel strap. It needs to be 22m width and make sure it will come with spring bars or buy them extra. Tools like this also come in handy.
I bought these ones to specifically have my pebble time steel links removed. They worked perfectly.
5 Piece Precision Screwdriver Set for Watch Repair, Watch Bracelet with 5 Extra Blades https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JPXW0N8/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_u7vNwbH0HK36M
The plain black leather band looks like the stock Huawei leather band; no croc distressing/pattern. The quick-release spring bars can be found here
I also purchased 18mm quick-release spring bars from AliExpress. They arrived yesterday and are of equal quality as the ones I got from Amazon. Took about a week to arrive.
You could possibly go with something like this:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/1-8mm-Release-Spring-Cylindrical-Button/dp/B010D08Q5C/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1452271751&sr=8-8&keywords=18mm+spring+bars
You'd need to notch out the strap slightly to allow for the pull back though.
A good place to get started is by watching videos on YouTube. There are several 25+ minute long videos of people disassembling, servicing, and reassembling pocket watches. Once you have watched some videos, then you can start google searching about watch repair for more information. Things such as how to properly oil a watch. The names of different components, how to put a watch "in beat", etc. The message boards at NAWCC.com are a GREAT help. Read, read, read. Study. If after you do this and still want to get into the hobby then read further. I have to note that you must be mechanically adept to do this. You'll need to be able to observe a mechanism and deduce exactly how it works. This is how you solve a problem that a timepiece may have.
Honestly, a lot of the "Getting started" guides out there recommend spending thousands of dollars on tools. 30 dollars for one single screwdriver, 300 dollars for this, that, etc. If you're wealthy, then go for it! The expensive tools are great, but it's not necessary to service movements that are worth less than a couple hundred bucks for hobby. I'm very financially poor, so I had to shop around for the least expensive tools I could find. Here are some of the tools I use. I did purchase them from amazon. You won't be able to do all repairs with these tools. There are repairs that will be a bit out of reach, such as balance staff replacement and component fabrications.
1)Screwdriver set. I get a ton of use out of these. They're Chinese made, but they work perfectly fine. Definitely a must.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JPXW0N8/
2) Magnifying eyeglasses. LED illuminated. I cannot live without mine, it really works great and takes regular AAA batteries. Human hands are capable of very fine motor movements, what limits us is our eyes. Watchmaking requires steady hands, and for that you'll need to see up close.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003UCODIA/
3)Movement holder. This is self explanatory.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005URKGDO/
4)Brass tweezers. You will need these to insert screws for installation, various pins, etc. Brass is a softer metal, and thus makes it less prone to scratch/damage steel parts such as the threads of screws. Learning to use tweezers can be quite difficult at first. You need to be very light fingered with them. Too much pressure, and your teeny tiny screw/pin/jewel will go flying across the room never to be seen again. Too little pressure, and you will drop the component. It takes practice.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000RB7C5I/
5)Hand remover. Self explanatory.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I02NW82/
6)Watch oil. I use this Liberty brand oil. Seems to do the job just fine, and it's affordable.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CM19L5K/
7) Dremel. Harbor Freight sells a knockoff brand dremel for something like 10 bucks. It comes with several attachments. I mostly use mine for buffing cases.
8) Jewelry pliers. They sell these in craft stores and such. Basically a pair of needle nose pliers without teeth on them, they just have smooth round points. These come in handy for removing pins and canon pinions and such that the brass tweezers cannot remove.
9) Several clean cotton cloths. I buy mine at the automotive department in walmart.
10) Goof-Off cleaning solution and a toothbrush. Goof-Off contains a mixture of acetone and xylene. This works great for removing old oil, gunk, and dirt.
11) Toothpicks and a sharp knife. Wood toothpicks work great for pegging/cleaning out jewels and pivots. Sharpen the tip of a toothpick, insert it in said jewel, spin it around a bit, it'll come out gray. Then clean with the chemical solution.
Now you'll want a watch or two to work on. I highly recommend sticking with an 18 size or 16 size movement at first. Larger parts and such makes it easier. You'll be able to find them on eBay. Generally I can find good size 18 movements for 30 to 50 dollars. Sometimes it's a good idea to buy a watch that already runs, but needs fully disassembled and cleaned. That 1898 Hampden 18s 11j in my photo album? I paid $30 for it in an eBay auction. It needed fully disassembled, cleaned, lubricated, mainspring replacement, and the balance put in beat. I knew that if it had a problem which I could not cheaply repair then I could simply resell it and get my $30 or more back. Often times you'll be able to buy entire lots of uncased scrap movements for less than 50 dollars. Having a lot of scrap parts movements around comes very much in handy. Stay away from watches with broken balance staffs for now. If you buy a broken watch that cannot be repaired cheaply, simply resell it on eBay.
Take A LOT of photos while you tear down a watch! Before you start removing screws, take photos on your cell phone. This will help immensely with reassembly.
That's all I can think of now. Getting a bit sleepy so I'm sure I'll think up some more advice tomorrow. I hope watchmaking is still enticing to you after watching some youtube videos, it really is a most rewarding hobby.
I bought this one, it's kind of janky. However for bracelet sizing, swaps and simple repairs it does the job.
Vastar 151 PCS Watch Repair Kit, Watch Repair Tools Professional Spring Bar Tool Set, Watch Band Link Pin Tool Set with Carrying Case https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H8D23L6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_.V4yDb4EHQ1AF
Lurking around here has really made me want a watch again, but I needed to run some things by you guys.
Firstly, I have a really small wrist, and I want a blue watch face. Now my budget is around 200 dollars, so no aqua terras for me, but I found this seiko (thoughts?). My wrist is around 2 inches wide on a good day. Will this be too big? Any other blue watch faces to consider if it's too big?
also, I'd like to replace the bracelet with a brown leather band (Would this one fit?) Is that possible with this watch? Is it difficult to do?
This was my first one, to open cases and change batteries and stuff
SE JT6222 Watch Repair Tool Kit, 13-Piece https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004FWHOVC?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
Then I got this for hand pulling and installing when I was doing the project I mentioned
Watch Hand Presto Presser Lifter Puller Plunger Remover set Fitting Repair Tools https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BU0MWAA?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
And finally I got this because I couldn’t close some cases on my mom’s watches
Se Professional 13 Piece Set Watch Back Press W/ 12 Dies Jt1229 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005AJ5DZI?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
As for quality, I really have nothing to compare them to - they were cheap and got the job done and for how often I need them, plenty good for me.
Testing Timers TT-AII ACT G2 Pacing Digital Timer and Watch, 2nd Generation https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C77MV0U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_lKozCbHGCBDEC
Oh damn, I hadn't seen the kits, thanks for pointing that out man! Would it be a good idea to pick up and extra set of hands before I start?
Also, would this set of tools be enough to get it built, or am I missing some stuff?
Cleaning Rodico
[Tool Kit](
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B075LM4332/ref=sspa_mw_detail_1?i)
Cushion
Crystal press is ~$20 on amazon. Tools like these would be more than adequate to get the job done. plus you'll have tools if you ever need to do a strap change or battery on a quartz. Also its nice to be able to access the regulator on a watch if it starts running too fast or slow.
I have this watch repair kit, and it has pretty much everything I have ever needed in it. I have removed links for a few people and the spring bar tool is really nice.
I own a bunch of watches and do adjustments myself. I got a basic watch kit... pretty easy peasy to do a lot of this stuff yourself. Comes with extra springs in many sizes...
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0714DJYLQ
Well, I have one of these type of watch repair kits, so with the right tools it was very, very easy. From the idea to implementation to being back on my wrist and having a photo to share here was all of 35 minutes. The hardest parts were figuring out where the crown stem release was and trying to remember if I had any black nail polish anywhere.
Seriously super easy.
And can I talk more about how much I love this cheap little watch? I got it in December and have been wearing it at least once a week since then and it's been an absolute trooper. Now that I've done this I'm considering other mods -- I have a black datewheel that should fit in there, and I think a domed crystal would look super badass with the stark dial as it is now. The way I see it, if I really mess up bad, I can go back to square one for $15 with 2-day shipping, right?
Printing ("What should I take to the test center?") - http://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/help.html
Printing (ABC news article) - http://www.testingtimers.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/ABCArticle.pdf
Printing (Screenshot of Amazon page) - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C77MV0U/ref=twister_B01E6PEJNI?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Printing (ACT test ticket, the one you need for admission) - It says you need a watch right on it
For the replacement band, try a Nato strap
You may have to buy spring bars separate if you do not still have yours.
Open the caseback up with either one of these or one of these I personal prefer the ball
I have a MDV-106 Casio Dive watch.
Watch battery just went out, it’s a 200M but I don’t dive or go in the water with it...
What tools would I need to take the back off and what type of battery?
https://www.amazon.com/Dowswin-Remover-Adjustable-Opener-Closer/dp/B01M16LHXS?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_1
Something like that?
pick one of these up with your watch and you'll be set.
This is what you will need if you decide to change it yourself...price went up a few bucks:
http://smile.amazon.com/Spring-Bar-Tool-Set-5in/dp/B005ZEWGSA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421274716&sr=8-1&keywords=spring+bar+tool+set
This is good to have if you have a lot of watches but not necessary by any means:
http://smile.amazon.com/Neewer-Spring-8-25mm-Watchmaker-Stainless/dp/B00A34M4DY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1421274763&sr=8-3&keywords=spring+bar&pebp=1421274782441&peasin=B00A34M4DY
It has sizes for 99.999999% of watches out there so if you happen to lose the bar that attaches the watch band to the watch, you'll have a lot of extra to substitute.
Leaning towards this face and replace with this strap.
I'm about to purchase this one, I'll let you know how it goes!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07H8D23L6/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?smid=A2CGN80EVS3S24&psc=1
I ordered and used this one:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071F4X38N?ref=em_1p_0_ti&ref_=pe_1843280_412880200
Worked flawlessly.
Changing links is relatively straightforward. Bracelets with pins require a tool to hold the bracelet and a tool to push the pin out. The pins are friction fitted, some quite tight, and it's not uncommon to bend or otherwise damage a cheap tool.
Changing batteries will require a case back opener. For watches with a snap on case back a simple case opening knife will be fine.
For watches with a screw down back then you'll need a different tool. I recommend the Horotec Watch Case Opener. It's relatively expensive but makes the job of opening just about any watch very easy.
Alternatively you can get a cheap case back opener like this: Here - but...as with most things you get what you pay for.
Also keep in mind that any watch with a screw down back is probably water resistant. When you open the watch you run the risk of jeopardizing that water resistance - gaskets can get damaged etc. - so keep that in mind.
Here is the mobile version of your link
i wonder if the holder (the orange thing) makes things easier (with 2 tools).
https://www.amazon.com/Dowswin-Remover-Adjustable-Opener-Closer/dp/B01M16LHXS/
https://www.amazon.com/1-8mm-Release-Spring-Cylindrical-Button/dp/B010D08Q5C/ref=sr_1_3?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1473365451&sr=8-3&keywords=18mm+quick+release+pins
I like this one the best. It's easily adjustable and the magnet is very strong. I also have this one, but you can only adjust it with a screw driver. This one also looks very nice, but you cannot adjust it without special equipment.
When I search for watch band 20mm milanese on amazon.ca, I get quite a few hits (and even more without the "milanese", of course). If you want to easily change the bands, look that you get one with "quick release spring bars". With normal spring bars you need a tiny screw driver or such a tool.
I just checked with my mako and found that a 22mm bar works fine from a kit just like this one
You can buy a standard gold replacement watchband that will work on the Gear Live (not sure about G Watch). I did the same but got a black stainless steel version for mine (22mm). You'll need to get different watchband spring bars, as the spring bars included with the Gear Live will not work with the bands below due to the little handle they added.
My watchband: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005EJG0MY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Gold Version: http://www.amazon.com/Hadley-Roma-MB5175RY-SQ-22-Stainless/dp/B005EJFZH0/
Replacement watchband spring bars:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A34M4DY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (note: you can buy just two, but the cheapest I found on amazon were like $5. With this set being like $8. I just went with this...now I have all the watchband spring bars I'll ever need.)
Amazon
Ebay
That should be all you need for most watches.
Apparently this kit is a much better "investment".
I perfer this over that because it comes with a case, I bought it and although its very bad quality, I can size starps :P
That's going to be hard, unless you buy a cheap spring-pin removal tool.
This one from Amazon did the trick for me.
Otherwise, use a pocket knife/small flat blade and CAREFULLY insert it at the edge of your leather strap to remove the spring bar. You might screw it up, since you're basically using a primitive tool to do a specialized tool's job.
I have one like this, but did not think it was the right tool for the job. Is it? https://www.amazon.com/Opener-Wrench-Waterproof-Watches-Caseback/dp/B001PQNVOK
Thanks! I got these: 18mm x 1.8mm Quick Release Spring Bar with Cylindrical Push Button for Watch Band (Set of Two) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010D08Q5C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_k3RLxbSY8NFN2
I haven't cut holes in the back of the straps to get to the release mechanism yet, but I can open and close it by pushing a very small flat blade screwdriver in between the folds of the band.
i'm just getting started doing the same actually. i bought all of my equipment for super cheap in one of those kits from amazon like this as well as a cheap watch press. They work relatively well.
The only other things i would recommend are getting a different type of case back remover (i found that these work better than the three point ones included in the kit) and something to hold the movement and other parts in once you remove them.
I found that using something with an 7S26 movement is the easiest since you can find a ton of video tutorials on them on youtube.
Finally, watchuseek's Seiko and Citizen forums have tons of documentation and step by step tutorials to check out.
Anything from the Seiko 5 would be a good choice. Amazon has a pretty good selection of them, so does creation watche. Keep in mind that if you don't like the metal bracelet you can easily swap it out for something else. Any place that sells watch straps should be able to do it for you or you can buy a spring bar tool and do it yourself.
you could get something like this pretty cheap and have all the spring bars you'd ever need for anything if you dont mind inexpensive: https://www.amazon.com/Ritche-Professional-Stainless-spring-remover/dp/B011947OY0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496850792&sr=8-1&keywords=spring+bar of you can probably find just the size of spring bar you're looking for on ebay for just a few dollars. example: http://www.ebay.com/itm/4-PCS-Stainless-Steel-Spring-Bar-Pins-Link-For-Watch-Band-Strap-Pick-Size-6-50mm-/171788448606?var=&hash=item27ff63b35e:m:m7Iovqjw5rjG9R4JuExmwyg
You mean like one of these?
Need to demagnetize a SARB035. Would something like this, this, or this work just fine?
I just ordered this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C77MV0U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_7qGJybNKAVDAV
https://www.amazon.com/HAOBAIMEI-Professional-Replacement-Carrying-Instruction/dp/B075LM4332
This is one I had been looking at:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003OQ34S2
Though I think I'll keep looking for one with a rougher texture.
get yourself one of these
use a large die that is concave for the bezel or take it to a watchmaker . i bought this when i was 7n a pinch and it works great .
$4 on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/SE-JT6203-7-Piece-Watch-Spring/dp/B002Q8AJKK , there ya go.