DriversRecommendedOutdated drivers can make a good PC feel brokenScan driver issues before chasing fixes manually.Scan NowOctober DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PC×
Skip to content
WatchRanker
Search
For vendors
Blog

17 Watchmaking Tools, Matched to the Jobs They Do

A task-based guide to 17 watchmaking tools, with practical advice on compatibility, tool geometry and choosing equipment for external work versus movement servicing.
Estimate5–6 min Catalogued SpecialistWatchRanker Team
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The right watchmaking tools depend on the job: changing a strap, opening a case and servicing a mechanical movement are different tasks. This guide groups 17 useful tools by what they do, while explaining why the list is a practical selection—not a universal beginner kit or professional standard.

How to choose watchmaking tools

Start with the operation, then match the tool’s dimensions and geometry to the specific watch and component. Bergeon’s catalog advises identifying the job, selecting the relevant catalog section and matching the size and reference. Its catalog groups products across tasks such as screwdriving, spring bars and bracelets, case opening, cleaning, magnification, oiling, movement work, storage, holders and tweezers. The current catalog page lists 232 tools and spares across 10 sections; these are company-reported catalog figures, accessed in 2026, not independently verified industry statistics. Bergeon catalog

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

AWCI’s course tool list offers professional-context examples including a case opener, loupe and movement holder, but it should not be read as a universal current requirement. AWCI course tool list The 17 items below combine categories and examples in a task-based selection; neither source prescribes this exact list.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Tools for straps, bracelets and external case work

1. Spring bar tool

Use a spring bar tool to compress spring bars when removing or fitting a strap or bracelet. Choose an end that fits the bar and the access available between the lugs. Bergeon’s 3153 page describes an opposite 0.80 mm pointed tip for drilled-lug spring bars, illustrating why tip geometry matters; that detail does not make the tool universally compatible. Bergeon 3153 product page

#1 Best Overall
Watch Link Removal Kit, BYNIIUR Watch Repair Kit, Watch Case Opener Spring Bar Tools, Watch Battery Replacement Tool Kit, Watch Band Link Pin Tool Set with Carrying Case and Instruction Manual
  • UPGRADE COMPLETE 155 PCS WATCH REPAIR KIT suit for professional and general use, which can solution for most watch repair requirements
  • MULTIFUNCTION DELUXE WATCH TOOLS SET has every tool you need, 3 point watch wrench case opener (extra large), watch band link remover tool, pin punch, hammer, pliers, spring bar removal tool, band holder, 5x screwdriver, tweezers, case pry
  • INCLUDED XL WATCH WRENCH CASE OPENER up to 55MM, easy to open groove type oversize watches. This kit is perfect for common watch trouble, like opening watch back cover, watchband adjustment, changing watch batteries, watch band remover, watch resize, watch pins remover. You will never pay pricey watchmaker fees again
  • THE METAL WATCHMAKING TOOLS are made of high quality solid 304 stainless steel, they are sturdy, portable, practical and very easy to use
  • EXCELLENT WEARABILITY NYLON STORAGE BAG holds the whole watch repair set neatly, and this portable zipper case is easy to carry, you can transport it to fix your watch anywhere you want

2. Bracelet pin tool

A bracelet pin tool is for removing or fitting bracelet pins, not for releasing every kind of spring bar. Check the bracelet’s construction and the tool’s pin or push-point dimensions before applying force.

3. Case knife

A case knife is used to pry open compatible snap-back cases at the designated notch. Its blade must suit the case opening; using it on a screw-back case or forcing it at an unsuitable point risks damage.

4. Case opener for screw backs

Screw-back cases need an opener that engages the back’s notches or pattern. Match the opener’s contact points and size to the case rather than assuming one adjustable tool fits every back.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

5. Case holder

A case holder stabilizes the watch while a case back is being opened or tightened. Choose a support that fits the case securely without pressing on the crystal, crown or other vulnerable parts.

Rank #2
JOREST Watch Repair Kit for Battery Replacement & Link Removal, Resizing &Opener, Watch Repair and Cleaning Screwdriver Set, Wrench Back Remover, Spring Bar Tool
  • 【Watch repair tool kit】- JOREST watch repair tool kit contains common tools required for repairing watches, suitable for adjusting and replacing watch straps, opening watch covers, replacing watch batteries, gaskets, etc., and has detailed operations Manual to help you solve watch problems at home and save expensive repair costs.
  • 【Adjust the strap】- Metal watch band link remover, watch band holder, pin punches, double-headed hammer and spring bar tool with scale are used to replace various watch straps, adjust the length of the strap to fit your wrist.We are equipped with 15PCS spare needle to improve the service life of the tool, suitable for pin punch and metal watch band link remover.
  • 【Suitable for different watch covers】- Watch back case opener is used for watch cases with grooves;watch case opening pry is used for the watch case with a pry opening;Screwdriver is used for watch case fixed by screws;tweezer is used to remove the battery.The use range of the watch back case opener is 15-55mm, and the drill bit spacing is set by rolling the adjusting wheel to fit the groove of your watch back.
  • 【Five-in-one watch screwdriver】- Five types of screwdriver bits are suitable for many situations: watch battery fixing screws, watch case screws, watchband screws, and can also be used for glasses screws. The cover at the end of the screwdriver can be opened, and the inside is hollow for storing other screwdriver bits.
  • 【The purpose of the watch case holder】 - The watch case holder can be used with other tools in the kit to help fix the watch and reduce the risk of sliding and scratching the watch. It is suitable for watches of various sizes, and can be used for watches with a diameter of up to 50mm.

6. Crystal or case press with suitable dies

A press can install compatible crystals or close some case backs when paired with correctly sized dies. Die shape and diameter must suit the component; pressure applied through a mismatched die can crack a crystal or damage a case.

Tools for visibility and precise handling

7. Loupe or magnifier

A loupe enlarges small parts and work areas for inspection and precise handling. Choose magnification and a working distance that let you see the task without losing control of the tool or component. AWCI’s course outline includes a loupe among its named tools.

8. Watchmaker screwdrivers

Use a blade that fits the screw slot in width and thickness. A blade that is too small can slip; one that is too large can damage the screw or surrounding parts. Bergeon’s catalog includes screwdrivers and blades, but the catalog category does not establish one blade size for all watches. Bergeon catalog

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

9. Fine tweezers

Fine tweezers help position small components. Select the tip shape and material for the part and operation, and avoid using a sharp or unsuitable tip where it could scratch, deform or magnetically affect a component.

Rank #3
JOREST Watch Repair Kit + Watch Press Tool, Battery Replacement, Strap Adjustment, Wrench Opening Back Cover, Case Opener/Closer, Link Remover Sizing Bracelet, Screwdriver Band Pin Removal, Spring Bar
  • 【Wide Applicability】This set of tools can fulfill a variety of needs such as opening and closing three types of watch back covers, adjusting straps, removing watch screws and more.
  • 【2024 New Watch Opener & Presser】①The upgraded rotary watch opener is more stable and larger in size for a more comfortable grip; ②The new watch presser is more stable, more accurate and less labor intensive, so even women can do the job easily.
  • 【2024 New Metal Watch Link Remover】①The new metal watch pin remover has improved the threaded rod to enhance the stability when rotating; ②The watch lin remover and strap holder are combined into one, saving storage space.
  • 【Easy to Store and Carry】①This zipper pouch not only holds all the repair tools, but also has a built-in transparent strap for storing manuals, spare batteries, spare straps, etc.; ②Note: The pouch only shows the items that can be stored, the set does not contain these items: watches, straps, batteries. ③The lanyard design makes it easy to carry.
  • 【Instruction Manual】The instruction manual (in English) describes in detail how to use each tool, so even beginners can get started easily. This upgraded watch repair tool set is perfect for professional repairers or watch enthusiasts.

10. Dust blower

A blower directs air to remove loose dust from suitable work areas. It is not a substitute for cleaning a contaminated movement, and careless use can move debris into places that are difficult to reach.

Tools for movement and component work

11. Movement holder

A movement holder supports a removed movement while work is performed, helping keep it stable. Match the holder to the movement’s size and shape. AWCI’s course outline names a movement holder, supporting its relevance in professional-context training rather than making it necessary for every external repair.

12. Hand-setting tool

A hand-setting tool presses a watch hand onto its post. The contact surface and tool size must match the hand and post; uneven or excessive pressure can bend a hand or damage the movement.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

13. Hand remover

A hand remover lifts hands from their posts. Use a tool that clears the dial and protects it while supporting the hands evenly; the appropriate design depends on the watch and hand arrangement.

Rank #4
Watch Repair Kit, GLDCAPA Professional Watch Battery Replacement Kit, Watch Repair Tools with Carrying Case, Watch Link Removal Tool Kit, Watch Case Opener, Watch Press Set with 60pcs Watch Battery
  • 【MULTIFUNCTIONAL WATCH REPAIR TOOLS & KITS】Gldcapa comprehensive watch repair set contains a complete set of 145 pcs watch repair tools set, 13pcs watch press tool and 60pcs watch universal batteries, which solves most watch repair requirements, such as open watch backs, adjust watch band, change watch batteries, clean and maintain watchs, replace watch crystal, etc.
  • 【PROFESSIONAL WATCH BATTERY REPLACEMENT TOOL KIT】Our case opener can be adjusted to 2.17 inches, making it easy to open ordinary and oversized watches. The design of the wrench shape makes it easier to bear force and more convenient to use. It is very suitable for watchmakers and collectors. The 218-piece watch maintenance tool set also includes a sharp shell opener, five screwdriver bits, anti-static tweezers, cleaning cloth and watch case clip, which can better help you to repair and maintain your watch.
  • 【60PCS UNIVERSAL WATCH BATTERIES】8 pieces AG1/LR621/364, 8 pieces AG3/LR41/392, 8 pieces AG4/LR626/377, 4 pieces AG5/LR754/393, 4 pieces AG12/LR43/386, 8 pieces AG13/LR44/357, 10pieces AG6/LR920/371, 10pieces AG7/LR927/395 Cell Batteries Set. The battery kit may not fit all watches, but it can be used for most watches. Also it can be used for common electronic devices such as car remote, radios, cameras, LED lights, calculators and toys.
  • 【VALUABLE TOOL KIT】The watch tool is made of 304 stainless steel and solid high-quality hard plastic, the watch press is made of cast iron, which makes it more strong and more durable. A penny saved is a penny earned, The Gldcapa watch repair kit helps you easily solve your watch problems at home, instead of going to the watch&jewelry store to deal with a small problem at a high cost. Don't forget that we offer 24 months after-sales support for you to replace defective items.
  • 【BRAND QUALITY ASSURANCE】Our watch repair kit is equipped with detailed instructions. Before using, you can read the user manual carefully. GLDCAPA has been making watch repair tools for 30 years. Trust us, watch repair is not as complicated as you think, we are constantly trying to make watch repair easier. Our team has professional skills and a positive and enthusiastic service attitude. If you are looking for a Useful tool kit, this kit will be ideal to work with.

14. Pegwood

Pegwood is a small wooden stick used for delicate cleaning or manipulation in watch work. Shape and use it for the specific task; it is not a replacement for a correctly sized metal tool where precision engagement is required.

15. Cleaning putty or rodico

Cleaning putty can pick up loose particles from suitable surfaces and components. Use it selectively and follow the product’s intended use; it is not a general-purpose movement-cleaning solution.

16. Oilers

Oilers apply small quantities of lubricant during movement servicing. Oiler tip size and the lubricant must suit the point being serviced. Oiling is a movement-service task, not a routine step in changing a strap or opening a case.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Tool for a safer, more organized bench

17. Bench mat

A bench mat provides a defined work surface and helps keep small parts from rolling away. It supports organization but does not replace a movement holder or protect a watch from an incorrectly used tool.

Best Value
JOREST Watch Repair Tool Kit, Battery Replacement & Strap Adjustment, Wrench Opening Back Cover, Case Opener, Link Remover, Bracelet Resizing, Band Pin Removal, Screwdriver, Spring Bar
  • 【2024 Upgraded Adjustable Watch Opener】①Bigger size for better grip;②It is equipped with three different shapes of jaws, which can better adapt to different types of grooves;③The jaws are more stable, and when used with an anti-slip film, they can help you complete the job safely and efficiently.
  • 【Multifunctional Screwdriver】We centralized the functions of removing screws from watches and glasses, prying open watch covers, and replacing watch spring bars in this screwdriver, which helps you save storage space and saves you the trouble of keeping multiple tools.
  • 【Convenient Storage】Built-in mesh pocket for storing manuals, extra watches and watch straps, etc. Note: The pouch only shows the items that can be stored, the set does not contain these items: watches, straps, batteries.
  • 【Replace the Watch Battery & Adjust the Watch Band】Suitable for watch backs with a pry opening, watch backs with grooves or watch backs with screws; The metal link remover and hammer tool can help you adjust the strap length to fit your wrist.
  • 【Illustrated Instruction Manual】The instruction manual(in English) describes in detail how to use each tool, which makes it easy for even beginners to get started. This upgraded watch repair tool set is perfect for professional repairers or watch enthusiasts.

Which tools do you need for the work?

A starter selection should follow the work you actually plan to do. Retailer guidance distinguishes battery-change tools from hobbyist mechanical-watch tools, but that is task guidance—not an independent professional standard. Watch-tools.de guide

  • Strap or bracelet changes: begin with a spring bar tool suited to the watch; add a bracelet pin tool only if the bracelet uses removable pins.
  • Opening a case: identify whether the back is snap-fit or screw-down, then choose the matching opener and a case holder that fits.
  • Crystal or case-back fitting: use a press only with dies matched to the component and case.
  • Mechanical movement work: magnification, correctly sized screwdrivers, suitable tweezers and a movement holder support precision work. Hand tools, cleaning supplies and oilers are for the specific operations that require them.

A generic “watchmaker tool kit” may bundle useful items, but the phrase alone does not establish that the included sizes, tips or accessories fit a particular watch or cover a complete repair. Confirm compatibility and replaceable parts against the maker’s product details before buying.

What to check before buying

  • Task: confirm the tool is designed for the operation, whether external work or movement servicing.
  • Fit: check dimensions and compatibility with the case, lug, movement, bracelet or component.
  • Geometry and material: inspect the shape and material of tips, blades, dies or contact surfaces.
  • Parts and upkeep: see whether blades, tips or other wear parts can be replaced.
  • Work level: distinguish basic external tasks from movement operations that require appropriate skill and specialized tools.

Bergeon reports that the company began at Le Locle in 1791; this is a company-reported historical date on its catalog page, not an independently validated industry statistic. Bergeon catalog

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More lots from the Journal

  1. Lot1How to Care for a Mechanical Watch and Keep It AccurateBlogEstimate 5–6 min
  2. Lot2Mechanical vs. Quartz Watches: How to Choose the Right MovementBlogEstimate 4–5 min
  3. Lot3How to Best Sell Your Watch: Choose the Right Channel for Your GoalBlogEstimate 7–9 min
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.