Open a Screw Back Case Watch With Scissors

You don't need a special tool to open a screw back case watch. Just one of these.

Step 1: Watch Example

I'll use my 'Rip Curl' watch as an example.

Step 2: Watch Back

Look closely at this image. You'll see notches that are cut out of the watch back.  

Step 3: Scissor Tips Match to Notches

Now all you need do is insert the scissor tips into two of the notches. Make sure the blades are securely in position before turning the scissors anti-clockwise.  The scissors need to be perpendicular to the notches, (not as pictured).

DISCLAIMER: Please be aware that scissors are not the correct tool for this task and in any case this procedure would probably invalidate a warranty. Scissors have sharp cutting blades and the potential for bodily harm and/or scratch damage to the case caused by the incorrect use of scissors is higher than if the scissors are used as intended. Please be very careful. You are warned! 

Step 4: Rip Curl Watch Internals

This watch is good to 100m. Here's the internals.

Getting to the battery

Having got thus far you don't want to cause damage getting your battery out. I would recommend using a magnifying glass to figure out how the battery is retained before attempting to remove it. 

Closing the watch is just a reversal of this instructable. Have fun and be careful.

Comments

[njschlaak]

You cautioned the readers. "You are warned.". I believe that I would have worded it a little bit differently myself, as in, "You are hereby notified.", or, "You are hereby cautioned.". My father's family were incredibly gifted with figuring out how to make do with what was only at hand for the specialized tool department. Because I saw how to make do from observing them, I also have used scissors in a manner that they weren't intended for. In my late teens I started collecting tools for my professional career including my hobbies of tinkering with mechanical pocket watches, and electronics. Needle nose pliers and the standard regular old every day slip joint pliers will also work. My only suggestions to your article would be to use an assistant or something to hold the watch so that a person isn't struggling with the project. And the other being to place a goodly amount of padding down should the scissors ✂️ accidently slip. Thank you so much for having the foresight to post this alternative utilization of scissors for others such as myself to learn from.

[MattM255]

I didn't think this would work on my old ripcurl watch, but it totally did. thank you!

[mattthegamer463]

I use a pair of needle-nose pliers, I foresaw myself putting two very large holes through my palm using scissors.

[LadoA]

ouch! : ]

[arocse]

I hadn't thought about needle-nose pliers, but then I would have to go and buy some. I wouldn't use a lot of force with the scissors method. If you find the case is hard to unscrew it will be best to use an alternative (and safer) method.

[jessyratfink]

Ah, very smart! I did watch repair for a long time and never thought to try something like this when I didn't have the right tool. :P

[arocse]

Thanks, but the idea isn't original. I read about it, tried it, and it worked. I get lots of useful tips from this site so I thought it's time to reciprocate.