I am very new to watchmaking and horology. Its always been an interest too me but I never really had the time to get involved. Now semi retired I have bought a small tool kit. This great video really help me understand a lot of the tools in it. Really enjoyed it, I found it very instructive. Thank you
Wife bought me repair kit 6-7months ago and i'm just now having time to watch ur video to learn about the tools & what they r used for. Thanks now maybe I can try and work on a few watches
My one jeweled quality watch will continue to be taken to the jeweler for battery change. I bought this kit but didn't know how to use, thank you for basic explanation. Carol
Tremendously helped! These kits go for about $18 now on Amazon with the 3 point opener included. Replacing batteries on 3 of my watches. Love learning how to save $$$! Thanks!! Broke 1 round bit on my Nixon 48-20 Chrono. The back opening is strange as it has 6 circular holes to screw off. I could not find videos on how to remove it so I just gave it a go and it worked eventually. What eventually helped me open it was the vice (that comes with the kit) to hold the watch face down securely.
You have to remember to lay a thin cloth on the face of the watch, before tightening down the wing nut to get to the rear of the watch; ( you don’t want to inadvertently scratch the face plate!!).
@@deepb249 The kind that Optical or Opticians use to clean your glasses; it’s thin and small enough to not scratch the lens or be too thick, so that, you can still clamp the watch tightly!!
@@deepb249 the cloth might be silk or a thin piece of cotton, but, it’s kinda shiny looking about 6” long and 5” deep!! My suggestion is to go to a place that sells eyeglasses and politely ask them for a cleaning cloth for your glasses! Most of the time it’ll be free, but, they might chg you, if your not a customer!!
Mister Mark. I finally plunged in for the Bergeon master kit. I paid nearly as much as my most expensive Citizen watch. In other words, I am officially insane.
I envy you. I use tools for a living (equipment repair) and can unequivocally tell you that quality tools, especially top of the line stuff, is a joy to work with. I do wish that watch tools came in mid-grade "craftsman" level. Seems there is almost always either cheap stuff or top of the line. Anyhow, once you go "snap on", it's REALLY hard going lower; in the end, if you stay with the hobby, I think you will find you made the right choice.
It's been 30 years but I seem to remember that without any guidance, I sized the Seiko stainless steel bracelet of a watch I had bought at a department store with nothing more than a standard set of jewelers screwdrivers and paper clips to poke out the clips with. Now that I know a little more about watches, I might want to look for better tools but a little bit of poking with small thin prods seems to do the trick for many things. I suppose I should count myself lucky for not having bent or gouge anything with improvised tools.
thanks for the informative video. i have a pin stuck in a bracelet and several watch matchers couldn't get the stuck pin out and bent their push tool in the process. is there a way to drill out the pin?
I've been wondering about some of the tools in my kit. Now I know what they're for. I'm more dangerous to my watches than ever with a little more knowledge. Probably not a good thing 🤔😅
i'm used to cut clippers after fully opening and straighting to make a short rigid piece of steel and punch out the bracelet, using cork on the other side to slide the pin , cork from for example wine bottle cap sliced with knife in roundes....
Hi, re the pin remover tool. It is made of metal. This would damage the edge of the pin finish. Do they have nylon pin removal tips that you can use instead?
Another great video full of information! I would highly recommend anyone looking for a case back opener to go with the 3 prong version! I've had many scratches from the two prong versions slipping off, where as the 3 prong I have never had slip.
I bought a kit with this 3 prong opener but it can't reach those dents at the back of my watch... So it's completely useless for me.. Be careful if you are considering buying one of this, make sure to measure the width of your watch and if this opener suits you
@@faustokotama there is a small wheel on the back of that three-pronged device; by turning the wheel up, the pins get wider; turning the wheel towards you, the pins get smaller. Now if the back of the watch is facing upward in the holding device, you have the thin cloth under the glass face, (so, it doesn’t get scratched), with some mild finagling, you try to line up those pins into the slots on the back of the watch, and, firmly press downward and turn counterclockwise slowly. The backing should start to turn…
Just Inspired me to change my own batteries- have a couple of watches that need batteries (just lazy to drop off) what made me search on you tube was my movado bold - was told by 2 shops they need to send it to Movado- why? I don't know? this is a sub $400 watch, why the special attention? Thanks for the vids
I have been learning so much from your videos. I recently purchased theZexett kit you recommended and these tutorials are great at instructing how to use them. I'm grateful i have saved my old watches over the years to use as repair guinea pigs!
Was wondering on the more expensive tool kit if I have to change the battery on an invicta watch that’s 52-56 mm can it handle it as far as taking the back of watch off. Thanks
I have the same kit from China. My case back opener lasted about 10 seconds. I tossed it and bought a decent one. Other than that, the kit isn’t half bad.
Enjoyed your diy video. What tool would you say is the best for taking the back case off with, the one that looks like a knife or the little plastic pry off tool?
Hi Mark Love the channel - especially the Watch & Learn vids - could you please do a W&L vid on how to change a watch battery please - thanks - keep up the great informative vids
Yes, you are correct in the quality of the Chinese tool set. I too had to upgrade a few things. Especially the case back removal tool. That thing lasted one time. It was the crappiest metal in the world. Anyway, thanks for the excellent instructions. Good description on what these tools are.
I have a Timex watch with a pop-open back. I removed the back and replaced the battery, but now the back won't go back on. I tried everything I could think of and advice from Yotube videos. How do I fix it?
Tool used to size bracelet (blue thingy) - looks like the same I have (cheap stuff). Unfortunately tool's pins are not match for Orient M-Force bracelet. I broke one trying to remove Orient's pin so hammer had to complete the job. Broken pin was replaced with custom made pin made from stainless steel. Whatever that blue thingy tool is using is cheap alloy not even worth if you get it for free. BTW, Orient's M-Force pins are way different than pins you presented in one of your great videos and require special attention while removing (they have 2 parts, one is tiny tube). What you should mention when working with watches: do it in a bright lit area, use some sort of serving tray as your main work area to contain potential 'flying' parts and never work in carpeted area as you will never find micro pieces if they jump from table to the floor...
@@dannyrally1402 It's basically a small inflatable rubber ball that you press against the watch back and twist to open. Very easy. I bought mine on AliExpress, try searching for it there. I guess you can find it on eBay as well.
Very nice video but I have a question. The watch pin removal tool is pretty simple but what is the other thumb screw for? Is it just an extension ramp to hold the band still?
I realize that Infantry watches are obviously not top of the line. I have tried using the 3-point spanner wrench and all of the different tips that I have for this spanner wrench. Is there anything else that I can try?
Lol spent so much time trying to close the back of my watch..I bought a watch press, but it isn't deep enough for the watch crystal..spent so much time trying to use my thumbs with force..then I remembered..I simply placed watch upside down in carpet and used the palm of my bare foot to close the back of case..
hey, idk if you've done a video about this already, i doubt it, but i have a cheap automatic watch from amazon and the weight or winder in the back is pretty stiff (as in it doesn't rotate smoothly), is there a way to loosen it in any way, i have only just got into automatic watches. thanks in advance.
I just purchased a 3 point case opener and it does not open wide enough for my larger diameter Fossil watches. Do your tools work on larger watches? am I possibly missing something?
Hey man, I love this channel. Its the least egotistical watch channel on TH-cam and I've learned a lot from it. I have some very egotistical watch videos if you're interested :D
I am tool master watch scale is tiny. In trades world I am considered an elf as I prefer wood table. Buy 1 tool as you need it. Dermal and grinder, saw saw, torch with button starter. Have saved me from buying tools. I cut wreches in half. I can take 3/8 shave out 10mm. You can feel quality.
in rare cases the wrench could not fit for very large cases, so one method is to unscrew a bit the farest pin not much so it will fall apart, but enough to let it go not straight but to move over the maximum aperture of the wrench so you can catch the notch even the case is very large.. i won aganis a very bit croton watch wrench wont catch the nothces and wont open the case... cheers
*_You'll never catch me with a nylon or canvas band on any timepiece that I own. Ewwww. Casio man here, but sir those analogs, especially that Orient is splendid._* *_Anyway, very informative video sir. I bought my first watch repair kit off of Ebay paying less than $20 total. Its similar to the kit in the vid, add or take away a couple of items, but w/o the case. I want that case! Those 'lil cheap made in China tools are very effective. I'm looking to affix a watch holder and a watch back case remover tool to my set. I don't know whether to go with the ratchet wrench looking tool that you have or the rectangular one with the two bits on both ends._*
I've used both--those rectangular jobs with the fixed, circular bits are surprisingly effective. If you look at professional tools, usually mounted in a sort of drill-press looking device, you will see that the pros use the rectangular sort. Full Disclosure--I've only done about a half dozen watches ranging from 38 mm ish case diameter to about 50 mm ish case diameter.
John Charleson *_My man‼️ And I ❤️ that you gave the disclosure to note your skill set. I yet haven’t made my purchase so I’ll definitely consider what you said. I might just procure both types._* *_Keep at it sir & sooner or later you’ll be able to compete with the gentleman in the vid. 😉. Good night to you sir._*
Thank you so much for showing at which time each tool starts. Invaluable!
Quality video. The "Watch and learn" series is one of the best series of videos on watches on the net. keep up the good work and thank you.
It might be the only one? Haha, or close to it.
I am very new to watchmaking and horology. Its always been an interest too me but I never really had the time to get involved. Now semi retired I have bought a small tool kit. This great video really help me understand a lot of the tools in it. Really enjoyed it, I found it very instructive. Thank you
Why would anyone give thumb down on this wonderful info??? Thanks Marc. Great stuff, no doubt!
LOL, thanks for the support.
Wife bought me repair kit 6-7months ago and i'm just now having time to watch ur video to learn about the tools & what they r used for. Thanks now maybe I can try and work on a few watches
My one jeweled quality watch will continue to be taken to the jeweler for battery change. I bought this kit but didn't know how to use, thank you for basic explanation. Carol
Tremendously helped! These kits go for about $18 now on Amazon with the 3 point opener included. Replacing batteries on 3 of my watches. Love learning how to save $$$! Thanks!! Broke 1 round bit on my Nixon 48-20 Chrono. The back opening is strange as it has 6 circular holes to screw off. I could not find videos on how to remove it so I just gave it a go and it worked eventually. What eventually helped me open it was the vice (that comes with the kit) to hold the watch face down securely.
You have to remember to lay a thin cloth on the face of the watch, before tightening down the wing nut to get to the rear of the watch; ( you don’t want to inadvertently scratch the face plate!!).
What kit you bought?
@@mnsignr what kind of thin cloth?
@@deepb249 The kind that Optical or Opticians use to clean your glasses; it’s thin and small enough to not scratch the lens or be too thick, so that, you can still clamp the watch tightly!!
@@deepb249 the cloth might be silk or a thin piece of cotton, but, it’s kinda shiny looking about 6” long and 5” deep!! My suggestion is to go to a place that sells eyeglasses and politely ask them for a cleaning cloth for your glasses! Most of the time it’ll be free, but, they might chg you, if your not a customer!!
I rarely use my laptop upside down, but Orient Speedster was worth admiring. 1:36
Awesome video Mark, keep up the good work! very instructive
Thank!
Could you please explain the different bits of the opener, which one should be used in which case?
Mister Mark. I finally plunged in for the Bergeon master kit. I paid nearly as much as my most expensive Citizen watch. In other words, I am officially insane.
I envy you. I use tools for a living (equipment repair) and can unequivocally tell you that quality tools, especially top of the line stuff, is a joy to work with. I do wish that watch tools came in mid-grade "craftsman" level. Seems there is almost always either cheap stuff or top of the line. Anyhow, once you go "snap on", it's REALLY hard going lower; in the end, if you stay with the hobby, I think you will find you made the right choice.
It's been 30 years but I seem to remember that without any guidance, I sized the Seiko stainless steel bracelet of a watch I had bought at a department store with nothing more than a standard set of jewelers screwdrivers and paper clips to poke out the clips with. Now that I know a little more about watches, I might want to look for better tools but a little bit of poking with small thin prods seems to do the trick for many things. I suppose I should count myself lucky for not having bent or gouge anything with improvised tools.
Hi from Australia! I was wondering if you have an update when the more expensive toolkit would be available to purchase online? Thanks Gavin 😊
thanks for the informative video. i have a pin stuck in a bracelet and several watch matchers couldn't get the stuck pin out and bent their push tool in the process. is there a way to drill out the pin?
THANKS A LOT - HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND
You too!
I've been wondering about some of the tools in my kit. Now I know what they're for. I'm more dangerous to my watches than ever with a little more knowledge. Probably not a good thing 🤔😅
i'm used to cut clippers after fully opening and straighting to make a short rigid piece of steel and punch out the bracelet, using cork on the other side to slide the pin , cork from for example wine bottle cap sliced with knife in roundes....
Excellent video, man. Information explained thoroughly and precise, yet not at all overwhelming. Thank you, I appreciate it.
Nice, soothing voice also
I love my watch kit!! I love vintage watches and now everyone asks me do theirs- thank you for the help!!
Thank you I admire your approach and no nonsense tutorial, bless you.
Hi, re the pin remover tool. It is made of metal. This would damage the edge of the pin finish. Do they have nylon pin removal tips that you can use instead?
Another great video full of information! I would highly recommend anyone looking for a case back opener to go with the 3 prong version! I've had many scratches from the two prong versions slipping off, where as the 3 prong I have never had slip.
Yes, and take your time! Don't be in a rush.
Thanks for this advice
I bought a kit with this 3 prong opener but it can't reach those dents at the back of my watch... So it's completely useless for me..
Be careful if you are considering buying one of this, make sure to measure the width of your watch and if this opener suits you
@@diogeneslantern18 jjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjķkķķjjjjķñkķķòķķ
@@faustokotama there is a small wheel on the back of that three-pronged device; by turning the wheel up, the pins get wider; turning the wheel towards you, the pins get smaller. Now if the back of the watch is facing upward in the holding device, you have the thin cloth under the glass face, (so, it doesn’t get scratched), with some mild finagling, you try to line up those pins into the slots on the back of the watch, and, firmly press downward and turn counterclockwise slowly. The backing should start to turn…
I found some pliers clamped the back back on inside of the watch holder it was super easy
Hi i have tried different watch tools but still cant get the back of my seiko watch.
You can pick up the advanced toolkit on aliexpress for about $11 if $50 is too much.
Thanks this is just what I was looking for you've earned a sub
wow i love the orient speedster. im surprised orange is a color i never wear
I'd like to see fitness watch battery replacement such as Garmin.
Just Inspired me to change my own batteries- have a couple of watches that need batteries (just lazy to drop off) what made me search on you tube was my movado bold - was told by 2 shops they need to send it to Movado- why? I don't know? this is a sub $400 watch, why the special attention? Thanks for the vids
Great to hear that! Nice work.
Probably because they are afraid of scratching and denting it up. I had a jeweler mess up the back of my Bulova. :-(
Where is that blue ball to remove the back cover? I cannot find it anywhere on web
I have been learning so much from your videos. I recently purchased theZexett kit you recommended and these tutorials are great at instructing how to use them. I'm grateful i have saved my old watches over the years to use as repair guinea pigs!
Thank You, I have a kit similar to the 2nd one!
Was wondering on the more expensive tool kit if I have to change the battery on an invicta watch that’s 52-56 mm can it handle it as far as taking the back of watch off. Thanks
I have the same kit from China. My case back opener lasted about 10 seconds. I tossed it and bought a decent one. Other than that, the kit isn’t half bad.
Enjoyed your diy video. What tool would you say is the best for taking the back case off with, the one that looks like a knife or the little plastic pry off tool?
Hi Mark
Love the channel - especially the Watch & Learn vids - could you please do a W&L vid on how to change a watch battery please - thanks - keep up the great informative vids
Yes, you are correct in the quality of the Chinese tool set. I too had to upgrade a few things. Especially the case back removal tool. That thing lasted one time. It was the crappiest metal in the world. Anyway, thanks for the excellent instructions. Good description on what these tools are.
I have a Timex watch with a pop-open back. I removed the back and replaced the battery, but now the back won't go back on. I tried everything I could think of and advice from Yotube videos. How do I fix it?
Thank you Marc! When replacing a watch battery, where is the best place to purchase the batteries?
Don't buy a Duracell i regret it, it destroyed my watch
@@rtyhgfplmkoi4784 Duracell’s are crap 💩! I’ve had many electronics with severe battery terminal corrosion damage due to Duracell’s.
Tool used to size bracelet (blue thingy) - looks like the same I have (cheap stuff). Unfortunately tool's pins are not match for Orient M-Force bracelet. I broke one trying to remove Orient's pin so hammer had to complete the job. Broken pin was replaced with custom made pin made from stainless steel. Whatever that blue thingy tool is using is cheap alloy not even worth if you get it for free.
BTW, Orient's M-Force pins are way different than pins you presented in one of your great videos and require special attention while removing (they have 2 parts, one is tiny tube).
What you should mention when working with watches: do it in a bright lit area, use some sort of serving tray as your main work area to contain potential 'flying' parts and never work in carpeted area as you will never find micro pieces if they jump from table to the floor...
Good tips.
Great video, very informative. I personally preffer to use a ball watch case opener, which is easy to use and doesn't scratch the watch back.
what is ball watch opener? where can i buy one?
@@dannyrally1402 It's basically a small inflatable rubber ball that you press against the watch back and twist to open. Very easy. I bought mine on AliExpress, try searching for it there. I guess you can find it on eBay as well.
These videos are very interesting. Keep it up.
Thanks for watching.
Excellent, thank you!
🍀👍🍀🤔 righty tidy lefty Lucy? (case back rotation?)
Very nice video but I have a question. The watch pin removal tool is pretty simple but what is the other thumb screw for? Is it just an extension ramp to hold the band still?
Good video. By that I mean the instructions were good and so was the quality of the video and audio..Great Job.
Hi when can one buy the second toolkit ?
I realize that Infantry watches are obviously not top of the line.
I have tried using the 3-point spanner wrench and all of the different tips that I have for this spanner wrench.
Is there anything else that I can try?
Removing links - OK but what do you do when the bracelet doesn't have visible holes (speidels)?
Keep posting man thanks.
I use a squash ball works excellent on all the ones I have done even if they have never been opened before....
Lol spent so much time trying to close the back of my watch..I bought a watch press, but it isn't deep enough for the watch crystal..spent so much time trying to use my thumbs with force..then I remembered..I simply placed watch upside down in carpet and used the palm of my bare foot to close the back of case..
How can I close my guess watch ! I change the battery but I can’t close !! 😆
Great video Mark, but how do I REMOVE those bits from the 3-point wrench to change them? I can't get mine out! LOL
Great video dude.
When you go to put the back, back on the watch aren’t you suppose to wipe some silicone on the gasket?
Very cool vid, thanks
Out of curiosity how many personal watch do you have Marc :)
I do not count; probably 30 to 40. Not much considering how long I've been doing it.
Stephane Boudreau I thought Marc would have had at least 150+ lol. I was way off.
Thank you kindly ✅
Great Video!!!!!!!
AWESOME Mark! Thanks so much for all the excellent help! Helped me to open and change batteries on a diverse sampling of my dead watches!
Broooo same, currently going thru my old dead watches
Thanks that's exactly what I needed
THANK YOU I LEARN SOMETHING NEW, THANK YOU VERY MUCH, U MADE IT EASY TO ADJUST MY WRIST WATCH.. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.
are your watch kits the same quality as the amazon ones?
Great video, thanks very much.
How can one get a watch repair job? I've googled a little bit and Craigslist but didn't see much
in the playlist the order of videos are inverted it will be more cool if one see them in correct easy to hardest order...thanks
Good point, thanks.
hey, idk if you've done a video about this already, i doubt it, but i have a cheap automatic watch from amazon and the weight or winder in the back is pretty stiff (as in it doesn't rotate smoothly), is there a way to loosen it in any way, i have only just got into automatic watches. thanks in advance.
No, it is a function of the movement, and the weight of the rotor. You really cannot adjust it.
oh, ok thanks anyway
I like the honesty
Very cool. Thanks! 👍
I just ordered a kit from Amazon. Thanks for the overview.
What is the best "money is no object" springbar tool?
Burgeon!
Long Island Watch But which? They make several. Looks like they recently introduced a new model?
Outstanding presentation! Semper Fi
Took it off metal for fabric 😲😲😲 Super awesome looking though
I just purchased a 3 point case opener and it does not open wide enough for my larger diameter Fossil watches. Do your tools work on larger watches? am I possibly missing something?
Possibly. The two top points do not go on the diameter of the caseback. Instead, you form a triangle with the 3 of them.
How do you turn arrows up is out arrows down is in lost my instructions
LMAO! The Incredible Hulk! Thanks for not dragging it out, very informative.
Thank you brother for this Video....
Marc, can you recommend a good eye loupe? Thanks
Bausch & Lomb Watchmaker Loupe, 10x.
B&L, absolutely. 5x and 10x.
Thank You...well done
I was just about to order Bergeon 7815... How did you know?
Slightly higher quality!
Yeah, and "slightly" higher priced (10x) as with most "Swiss Made" branded things.
Very helpful overview ❤️
Great info. Covered the tools that just came in my kit.
10:34 Just wondering: why not take the damn gloves off? [is it the logo..] Thanks.
15:45 That's a beautiful SEIKO.
*cool* video, Mark.
Good explanation & demonstration. Tq. 👍👍
Hey man, I love this channel. Its the least egotistical watch channel on TH-cam and I've learned a lot from it. I have some very egotistical watch videos if you're interested :D
why are Phillips and flathead screws still used??
Inexpensive. Many other reasons too; phillips is designed to cam out after a certain torque. And slotted is just CHEAP.
thx for this video
I am tool master watch scale is tiny. In trades world I am considered an elf as I prefer wood table. Buy 1 tool as you need it. Dermal and grinder, saw saw, torch with button starter. Have saved me from buying tools. I cut wreches in half. I can take 3/8 shave out 10mm. You can feel quality.
awesome instructional vid! kudos!
Thank you
Hi Mark I broke my pin in my watch repair kit and I cant get the broken pin out.
Sally Backalukas Pinkerton I did same would like to know how to get it out if happens again.
Excellent!
in rare cases the wrench could not fit for very large cases, so one method is to unscrew a bit the farest pin not much so it will fall apart, but enough to let it go not straight but to move over the maximum aperture of the wrench so you can catch the notch even the case is very large.. i won aganis a very bit croton watch wrench wont catch the nothces and wont open the case... cheers
Great advice.
Great review, as usual. I've learned a lot. Thanks.
Thanks!
Thank you very much i just got started yersteday the video is relevant you covered all in my tool case similar to yours,thanks alot
Thank you for this great video!
You are welcome!
Very interesting how basic tools work I'm interested about learning how to make repairs on my watches and even maybe my friends too very cool
I just got one of these and thought to my self, how the heck do i even use any of it. This video will saved me.
*_You'll never catch me with a nylon or canvas band on any timepiece that I own. Ewwww. Casio man here, but sir those analogs, especially that Orient is splendid._*
*_Anyway, very informative video sir. I bought my first watch repair kit off of Ebay paying less than $20 total. Its similar to the kit in the vid, add or take away a couple of items, but w/o the case. I want that case! Those 'lil cheap made in China tools are very effective. I'm looking to affix a watch holder and a watch back case remover tool to my set. I don't know whether to go with the ratchet wrench looking tool that you have or the rectangular one with the two bits on both ends._*
I've used both--those rectangular jobs with the fixed, circular bits are surprisingly effective. If you look at professional tools, usually mounted in a sort of drill-press looking device, you will see that the pros use the rectangular sort. Full Disclosure--I've only done about a half dozen watches ranging from 38 mm ish case diameter to about 50 mm ish case diameter.
John Charleson *_My man‼️ And I ❤️ that you gave the disclosure to note your skill set. I yet haven’t made my purchase so I’ll definitely consider what you said. I might just procure both types._*
*_Keep at it sir & sooner or later you’ll be able to compete with the gentleman in the vid. 😉. Good night to you sir._*