Watch Repair Tools are a Varied Lot

A well balanced set of watch repair tools is going to include an assortment of small precision instruments.

Screwdrivers are one of the most frequently used watch repair tools. Needed to get into tight spots and to adjust tiny screws, they are simply indispensable. They are available individually or in sets, and come in both flat-head and Phillips head points. The better quality screwdrivers can feature replaceable blades and color coding for quick selection. Sets can be found with boxes for storage or stands that can be placed on the workbench for easy access. Prices vary widely, so the cost can be adjusted depending on how much is budgeted for watch repair tools. In addition, sharpeners are handy to keep screwdrivers in optimal condition.

Tweezers are another important watch repair tool. They are invaluable when changing batteries, or to hold small parts in place for soldering. With their thin, sharp points, they will not take much pressure before bending or breaking. A quality pair of tweezers will cost somewhere between $20 and $30, but there are too many tasks that simply cannot be completed without them and can easily make anyone neglect the price factor.

A drill is also a good investment for a watch repair tool set. One with a flexible shaft and a head that will accommodate a variety of attachments is preferred. If the threads on screws are stripped, a tap and die set is almost a required watch repair tool. A manual set can be found for around $20, while those that use suction will run about $150.

Most watch repair tool sets include a demagnetizer. By removing the magnetism from screwdrivers or other tools, the repairman can be sure that parts are not drawn to the screwdriver while trying to work on a nearby area and that damage is not done to electrical components.

For watch band repairs, two good watch repair tools are the spring bar tool (for freeing the pins that connect the watch band to the case) and pliers to use for the clips that connect the links in a stretch style band.

A case opener is too an important tool. These are used to remove and replace the watch's case, and some of them even do double duty as a crystal press. Case wrenches are used to undo the tiny screws present on some styles of watches.

Additional watch repair tools should include an assortment of brushes, polishing cloths, and glues.