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Old 30 April 2017, 12:44 PM   #1
air_king
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Watch tools

Hello all, I am going to purchase a couple of non running (cheap) watches, in order to learn more about how they work by taking them apart and reassembling them. My question to you all is where to buy, what to buy, and how much should I spend on a set of quality tools? I am just doing this as a hobby, I have no delusions of teaching my self to be some kind of master watch maker but just would like to learn a little bit more about what makes them tick so to speak. Any and all advice would be appreciated. Thanks everyone
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Old 1 May 2017, 04:48 AM   #2
RonSwanson
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Buy burgeon or equivalent tools, I started with Cheapies from amazon, and all I accomplished was realizing I need better tools! Especially screw drivers and tweezers need to be quality. Check out esslinger or star time. Good luck!
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Old 2 May 2017, 03:23 PM   #3
smfdff
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Quote:
Originally Posted by air_king View Post
Hello all, I am going to purchase a couple of non running (cheap) watches, in order to learn more about how they work by taking them apart and reassembling them. My question to you all is where to buy, what to buy, and how much should I spend on a set of quality tools? I am just doing this as a hobby, I have no delusions of teaching my self to be some kind of master watch maker but just would like to learn a little bit more about what makes them tick so to speak. Any and all advice would be appreciated. Thanks everyone
Esslinger.com/ has a nice user friendly web site that utilizes your needs; for instance, a section for watchmakers tools. Then this section is broken down further; example; caseback tools, hand tools, as well as by manufacture. I started with what's first, in my case, remove bracelet, so I got the correct tool. Then the caseback, a remover etc....I tried to stay middle level and I'm at $600.00. It all adds up rather quickly.

Good luck.

Tim
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Old 5 May 2017, 08:27 AM   #4
air_king
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Thanks guys, my credit card is melting as we speak.
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Old 23 June 2017, 01:03 PM   #5
southtexas
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I just went to the esslinger site...that escalated quickly.


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Old 10 July 2017, 05:13 AM   #6
chrisca70
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Quote:
Originally Posted by air_king View Post
....in order to learn more about how they work by taking them apart and reassembling them. My question to you all is where to buy, what to buy, and how much should I spend on a set of quality tools? ....
Hello,

Before going into buying tools, I recommend to take an online course. Doing a basic course will save you some frustration and time and make this a fun project or hobby. Course will recommend tools, etc. There are a couple (sent a private message) where you can start. Old NOS or used movements can be purchased on eBay. I started with a swiss FHF/ST 96 and I am having a lot of fun, after my 1st course module, I am able to disassemble and reassemble it without damaging anything, now I am about to start the 2nd module where I will learn about cleaning and lubricating. Of course I may never get to a SATWA educated skill level but for my circumstances (have a job, family, etc.) this is plenty for now

PS: I recommend to buy Bergeon or Horotec, (Horotec is a tad more affordable and still is quality).
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Old 10 July 2017, 09:18 AM   #7
air_king
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Very good advice thanks
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Old 25 July 2017, 01:34 AM   #8
BODOE
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To piggyback off this. Looking for a screwdriver that can take the bracelet screws out of a 116710ln master ii. Anyone know which size would be appropriate? Thanks so much :)
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Old 25 July 2017, 02:40 AM   #9
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Have you thought if the TZ online course and getting the tools through them.
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Old 25 July 2017, 02:43 AM   #10
brandrea
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Start with an eye exam and a good set of glasses if needed.

Also something to calm the shakes (Mon may be able to recommend something)
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Old 25 July 2017, 03:11 AM   #11
stylinleems
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Quote:
Originally Posted by BODOE View Post
To piggyback off this. Looking for a screwdriver that can take the bracelet screws out of a 116710ln master ii. Anyone know which size would be appropriate? Thanks so much :)
If you can find the Rolex 2100 screwdriver that's the best one.

However, the Panerai 1.6 mm screwdriver that comes with the 44mm (Luminor) cases work great as well.

If you can't find the above two, you will need a 1.6mm hollow point/ground.

Scroll down to Post #16 - Jocke for explanation (as why you require the hollow ground):

https://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=424393

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Old 25 July 2017, 03:13 AM   #12
BODOE
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Thanks Mate!
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