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Handy Rolex Case Back Opener

moosewood

Getting To Know The Place
26/3/11
20
0
0
While I do have a proper Rolex case back opener, with a full set of dies, I have found it is still very difficult to use without incurring scratches.

So I made my own and it has never failed to open up any size for me, it will not scratch and it enables you really tighten the case back when you reinstall.

Materials: 1 - Prescription Pill bottle (mine is the diameter of the case back of a full size, ie - Submariner case back). Mine is slightly con-caved on the
bottom, so it follows the domed contour of the case back.

1 - Roll of Heavy Duty Indoor / Outdoor Carpet Tape

I cut the carpet tape into circles the same diameter as the bottle. It seems to work best with 5 layers of carpet tape circles (adds a resilient cushion that conforms to the shape of the case back, plus more grip).

Just place directly onto the back and while firmly holding the watch case, press downward and turn the bottle. Viola...the case back stays stuck on the bottle making it very convenient to reinstall. Be sure to change the tape with each use.

CasebackOpener1.jpg


Casebackopener-1.jpg
 

Q5?

Legendary Member
Advisor
29/3/09
15,272
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What a helpful tip.

Have some rep points. :)
 

joegrimm

I'm Pretty Popular
27/10/10
2,394
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cool, i usually just roll up a bunch of tape into a ball. But this seems much better. Will definately make myself one of these.
 

phillycheez

Respected Member
6/6/09
3,063
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Sweet tip. I never could get the ball of duct tape to work... this looks much much easier. I'd give rep points if I knew how?
 

If you see Kay

Respected Member
26/1/09
3,128
10
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shit.. that's what those green squares are????? I would have never known.

(I'm still trying to figure out those Breitling wingy things. )
 

jrodshibuya

I'm Pretty Popular
11/2/11
1,482
123
0
Wow! I'm going to give this a go, if I can find the right tape. I presume any tape will do as long as it's super strength type stuff?
 
D

d4m.test

Guest
VERY ingenious!! With all the pill bottles in my collection, I'll have to give this a try!! Thanks!! And, I agree, rep points for this very helpful tip!!

dave
 

jrodshibuya

I'm Pretty Popular
11/2/11
1,482
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0
Do you have to use carpet tape for this to work? I assume that regular duct tape isn't strong enough?
 

jrodshibuya

I'm Pretty Popular
11/2/11
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Drat, I don't have any pill bottles. All my medication seems to come in cardboard boxes :(

I'll find a substitute somewhere, am determined to make this work.

EDIT - success!! I used a small pill bottle I had (appx the same size as the inner part of the caseback) and 2 layers of regular duct tape. Worked first time! Thanks OP. Is there any special technique for putting it back on? My aim is to waterproof a watch, so if I don't put it back on properly I guess I'm defeating the purpose eh.
 

moosewood

Getting To Know The Place
26/3/11
20
0
0
Drat, I don't have any pill bottles. All my medication seems to come in cardboard boxes :(

I'll find a substitute somewhere, am determined to make this work.

EDIT - success!! I used a small pill bottle I had (appx the same size as the inner part of the caseback) and 2 layers of regular duct tape. Worked first time! Thanks OP. Is there any special technique for putting it back on? My aim is to waterproof a watch, so if I don't put it back on properly I guess I'm defeating the purpose eh.



I keep the case back stuck to the opener , find it much easier to turn on the re-install.

I put the rubber gasket into the groove on the case and coat it with small amount of clear SILICON grease.

Careful guide the case back (still stuck to bottle / tape and slowly screw it down. When it becomes quite snug, I push down while turning the opener firmly and get it tight (do not screw it down like a gorilla though, you do not want to distort the gasket. This has resulted in a water tight seal for me. I live on a lake and swim with mine all the time.

Is it more sticky than duct tape?[/QUOTE

Definetly, the heavy duty indoor/outdoor carpet tape is stickier. I originally used Duct Tape put there was 1 or 2 I could not open. In addition, you will be able to tighten better (won't slip).

Also the carpet tape is double sided which makes it way easier to build up 4 or 5 layers on the bottom of the pill bottle. The cushion created by multiple layers does help it conform to the "dome" like shape of the case back.

Is it more sticky than duct tape?[/QUOTE

Definetly, the heavy duty indoor/outdoor carpet tape is stickier. I originally used Duct Tape put there was 1 or 2 I could not open. In addition, you will be able to tighten better (won't slip).

Also the carpet tape is double sided which makes it way easier to build up 4 or 5 layers on the bottom of the pill bottle. The cushion created by multiple layers does help it conform to the "dome" like shape of the case back.
 

jrodshibuya

I'm Pretty Popular
11/2/11
1,482
123
0
Thanks for those additional tips Moosewood. So you don't bother with taking the crystal off and adding some UV glue etc? I've looked into doing that but it involves a lot more expense and difficulties, so I'd like to just do the method you've outlined.
 

moosewood

Getting To Know The Place
26/3/11
20
0
0
Thanks for those additional tips Moosewood. So you don't bother with taking the crystal off and adding some UV glue etc? I've looked into doing that but it involves a lot more expense and difficulties, so I'd like to just do the method you've outlined.

I have a Pressure Tes set up very similar to the home made version posted on this site (great idea, works like a charm).

So far I not had any leaks at about 20' depth (I can't remember how many ATM's that is, but it has been enough for me. Therefore, no need to reseal the crystal, as I guess mine have all been OK.

If you have crystal related leaks, you will need to consult these forums for additional solutions.

Secret is TEST IT!