PSA: Rolex Oyster Bracelet Sizing Tool

[kaseri]

Just thought I would pass along this information for those of you who would like your own screwdriver for sizing Oyster bracelets. I recently purchased the following items from Otto Frei and they have worked quite nicely.


New Swiss Made Deluxe Ball Bearing Screwdriver 1.60 mm
Otto Frei part# MSA 01.201-160


Replacement Curvature Blade for Deluxe Ball Bearing Screwdriver 1.60 mm
Otto Frei part# MSA 01.202-T160

If you decide to purchase these items request that Otto Frei measure the replacement blade to verify it is 1.6 mm. When I received my initial order the replacement blade sent was not 1.6 mm even though the package was marked with the correct part number. Otto Frei resolved the issue quickly and painlessly.

EDIT- Direct link to both items

[ReMember]

Originally Posted by kaseri

Just thought I would pass along this information for those of you who would like your own screwdriver for sizing Oyster bracelets. I recently purchased the following items from Otto Frei and they have worked quite nicely.


New Swiss Made Deluxe Ball Bearing Screwdriver 1.60 mm
Otto Frei part# MSA 01.201-160


Replacement Curvature Blade for Deluxe Ball Bearing Screwdriver 1.60 mm
Otto Frei part# MSA 01.202-T160

Can you please post the link, I can't seem to find it. Thanks.

[kaseri]

Both items can be found on the following page -

http://www.ofrei.com/page920.html

[Jake B]

Am I missing something? I'm seeing a screwdriver. Is it not the obvious tool to use for screws?

[Cc1966]

Originally Posted by Jake B

Am I missing something? I'm seeing a screwdriver. Is it not the obvious tool to use for screws?

The part indicating 1.6mm is the point I believe and the tip design. Whether you buy from OF or get a Bergeon (#30080H), etc. get a quality screwdriver with replaceable inserts.

[kaseri]

I'm actually surprised that you're wondering what the benefit of this tool is.

Typically a jewelers screwdriver is VERY thin at the tip and can easily slip or bend when being used on the Oyster screws. This is not always the case but it happens. This replacement blade is thicker and thus greatly reduces the chance of slipping and scratching the bracelet. This tool is as close as we can get without actually sourcing a hard to find Rolex Ref.2100 tool.

That being said, I'm still on the hunt for the Ref.2100 tool. If anyone has one they are willing to part with please let me know!

[srf52]

Originally Posted by Jake B

Am I missing something? I'm seeing a screwdriver. Is it not the obvious tool to use for screws?

...yes, but many might be unaware of the correct tip to use with that screwdriver. The OP's excellent pictures show the wrong tip to use mounted on the tool in the first pic, and the correct tips to use for proper screw removal/install without damage to the screw head.

[kaseri]

Originally Posted by srf52

...yes, but many might be unaware of the correct tip to use with that screwdriver. The OP's excellent pictures show the wrong tip to use mounted on the tool in the first pic, and the correct tips to use for proper screw removal/install without damage to the screw head.

Exactly! Here is a photo I just snapped of both tips.

[ecsub44]

Any old screwdriver will do with a minimal amount of care.

I've done it countless times with a "normal" screwdriver with no issues.

[Jake B]

Originally Posted by ecsub44

Any old screwdriver will do with a minimal amount of care.

I've done it countless times with a "normal" screwdriver with no issues.

Indeed. I've been using "normal" screwdrivers on movements and bracelets pretty much every day for years and years. Thanks for the tip though

[CrownMe]

Originally Posted by Jake B

Indeed. I've been using "normal" screwdrivers on movements and bracelets pretty much every day for years and years. Thanks for the tip though

you work on your movements with a screwdriver?

[masterserg]

It's called a hollow ground blade and it is indeed the right tool for the job. Also, one must remember to heat up the link with a lighter for about 3 seconds (to soften the loctite).

[Jake B]

Originally Posted by CrownMe

you work on your movements with a screwdriver?

Yes, for the screws, and also to wind the mainspring. What would you recommend?

[kaseri]

My initial post is merely an FYI to those of us looking for the proper tool. Although one may be able to size the bracelet using a standard 1.6 mm screwdriver the option I've posted fits more securely and thus greatly reduces the chance of slipping.

Admittedly I've been searching for the Rolex Ref.2100 tool but I have yet to source one for a reasonable price. I've tried contacting different ADs as well as Watchmakers with a Rolex parts account but thus far I've had no luck. For now I'll just use the option I found at Otto Frei.

But I'm still searching and wanting to purchase the Rolex tool. If anyone has one to spare please let me know.

[Glidelock]

Yes, you can do it with the standard blade, and extra care. But easily starts to mar the screw and bend the blade up. Those hollow ground blades are just a perfect fit and a dream to work with!

[anilzat]

I use a optical visor, jeweler screwdriver s when working on my watches to get the exact fit. If you look at the magnification X10 you will be able to see the damage to a screw head inside-outside when using the wrong screwdriver. I also use the Rolex screwdriver extension used for dive watches. This keeps the heads perfect and you will never know it was touched, I keep my screwdrivers in perfect condition.