How To Open A Pocket Watch: Know The Facts

Have you ever been curious about how to open a pocket watch? Whether you have found an old one or bought one to start a collection, it is best to keep your hands off the screws. Leave it to the pros if it needs a fix.

Remember that pocket watches, especially the vintage ones, are very delicate. If you force it open, it will break.

If you do not have access to professional watch repair, there are ways that you can open a pocket watch by yourself. To do it successfully, you will need to know the top facts about this timepiece.

The Pocket Watch

Pocket watches are small, round timepieces. They are made to be carried around in a pocket as opposed to wristwatches that are strapped around your wrist.

The pocket watch has a chain with a small section, called drop, that can be attached to a waistcoat.

Pocket watches have two types: the open face watch and the hunter-case watch. The open face watch has a winding knob located at the top of the dial. Its knob dial for seconds is at the bottom.

On the other hand, a hunter-case watch has a metal cover that protects the glass from damage.

Opening A Pocket Watch

How to open pocket watch depends on the type of watch that you have. Open face watches have front and back cases that either thread or pop off open using a thin, flat metal tool.

Hunter-case watches have cases or covers that pop off. You may also use a thin, flat metal tool like a butter knife or a pocket knife to open it. Some hunter watches have front covers that pop open when you press the crown like a button.

Pop off covers has two types: one has hinges, and the other one separates entirely from the watch.

Reminders

Be careful when opening any pocket watch—old or new. As we have mentioned earlier, it is best to have an expert open it, especially if you intend to fix or clean it. However, if you have decided to open it yourself, keep these in mind:

• Do not open the watch right away. Determine the type of watch and its cover.
• If it is an old watch, examine if it is still in good condition. Check if it has loose parts inside. These parts may scatter on the floor if you’re not careful opening it.
• Do not press the pocket watch as it will damage sensitive parts.
• Avoid scratching the watch when you are using metal tools to open it.
• Use gloves when handling the timepiece for your safety. Old watches might have cracks or broken parts that may wound you. Or, they might have been exposed to harmful substances.

If you cannot figure out how to open a pocket watch back, place it in a safe container and bring it to a professional.

Conclusion

How to open a pocket watch? You can thread it with a metal tool or pop off the covers. It depends on the type of watch that you have. However, if you are careless, you may cause irreparable damage to a possible collector’s item. So, go consult a horologist or an expert watchmaker.