How do you open your case back?

[kilyung]

Originally Posted by wohlfecc

For those with pressure testers- any preference?

There's a vacuum/pressure tester and leak tester. A good quality vacuum/pressure tester by a company like Witschi is critical. The leak tester is a simple device and (as long as it doesn't leak and holds 3ATM) can be purchased anywhere.

I use my case opener for my watchmaking hobby. The testers are used to regularly check all my watches.

[Alcan]

Originally Posted by Vincent65

hammer and chisel!

Originally Posted by Chris B

10 inch Stilsons

Ya bunch of amateurs! For serious work you need the Rolex caseback whack-a-matic. Comes with adaptors to fit all Rolex casebacks.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by rolexgolfer

What is your preferred way of opening the case back on your Rolex? Do you have your own tools or do you take it to an AD? Are AD's usually cool about taking the case back off?

Why would anyone want to get the back off a genuine Rolex,the only time thats necessary is when it needs service or simple things like regulation.Now there many good tools out there, but if you are not skilled in using, plus do not have the equipment to re-pressure check then best left closed.With the correct tool and if needed case seal gasket its just like unscrewing a jar. Its not rocket science same for screwing the case back down to the correct 45 inch pounds of torque if I remember correct.

[beshannon]

Originally Posted by subtona

As a buyer, I would strongly prefer to read in the advert that the case back had never been opened! Especially by other than a certided watch tech.

I agree.

I would never buy a preowned watch that someone opened at their dining room table just to take a picture of the movement. Even if it could be opened and resealed with a tool, what has happened to the gaskets and seals? Now there is dirt and dust inside the movement and no valid pressure test.

Nope!

[mjclark32]

I don't open the case, I'll let the pros do it when then time comes.

[robertgrom]

You don't.

[rolexgolfer]

It seems that a fair number of classified auctions/ ebay listings have a picture with the caseback off. That is largely the reason I even had the idea. Seeing the info on this thread kind of scared me off, and most likely avoided a costly mistake. Thanks TRF!

[sea-dweller]

I don't open my caseback at all.

[subtona]

Originally Posted by rolexgolfer

It seems that a fair number of classified auctions/ ebay listings have a picture with the caseback off......

Here in lies the problem with rolex shopping on ebay

[james1787]

My preferred method of taking the case back off is taking it to a RSC when it needs servicing and letting them do it

I have no reason to ever take the case back off by myself.