Watch Case Opener Review and Demonstration
Join me for an unboxing, review, and demonstration of a watch case opener. Similar tools from Bergeon and Horotech cost $500-$1000, but this one was $120 so I thought I’d give it a try. I’m glad I did!
Here, you will find some photos and a dab of context. The finer details are in the review video.
Details:
- Materials: Aluminum, Steel, Wood
- Nonslip pads
- Six case back pin types
- Nylon holders: 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22mm
- Two holder options
- Large wheel
- Retail Price: ~$122
- Amazon Link
Pros:
- Flexible design, can modify as desired
- Comparatively low cost
- Adequate parts
- Does the job
Cons:
- Base material and stain
The Video
https://youtu.be/PXUBFs6CAwo
Timeline:
- 0:00 Intro
- 3:37 Unboxing
- 6:58 Setup Options
- 9:22 Case Back Types
- 11:29 Using the Tool
- 13:12 Worth it?
- 14:45 Final Thoughts
A plethora of tools exist for opening watch case backs. Hand held case openers typically can get the job done, but can be harder to use and increase the risk of scratching a watch from slippage. And sometimes you need the extra leverage and torque for really tight and water resistant cases. Having a bench case tool is ideal, but they are expensive. Depending on how much watch work or modding you are doing, then the Swiss tools may or may not be the best option.
Usually, when discussing tools I suggest weighing usage with cost. When it comes to regular use tools like a springbar tool, screwdrivers, tweezers, bench mats, you’re better off getting the quality tool instead of buying something cheap, which will eventually fail you and then end up buying the better tool anyway.
With the high cost of bench watch case openers, I wanted to try a low cost option and see if it was satisfactory. Short story, it is. I am quite happy with it and I expect it will handle things just as well going forward as the costly options. I particularly like that I can do custom things with the base and parts (think 3d printing). If you’re regularly opening and closing watch cases, put this opener on your list of tools to get, put that cheap hand tool on the shelf, and save the extra money toward that next watch or tool.