How to Open a Rolex Case Back [Tips & Guide]
All modern Rolex watches – and most older Rolex watches – are equipped with the same type of screw-down case back. The case back can be described as a “shield” in the back which protects the watch movement and keeps it sealed. When you unscrew the case back, you get a visual of the movement inside. Removing the case back is also the first step that watchmakers take when servicing a watch.
They begin by opening – unscrewing – the case back. After that, they remove the movement from the case. After this, you have two pieces, the movement with the dial still mounted on it, and the case with the crystal still attached.
If you want to inspect the movement inside a Rolex watch, you, therefore, need to open the case back. And you do this by unscrewing it. But the process of unscrewing a Rolex case back doesn’t involve taking your ordinary wrench or screwing by hand. To open a Rolex case back, you need the proper tools. Bear in mind that the case back is a critical part of the hermetically sealed Oyster construction. With this in mind, Rolex has put a lot of thought and effort into designing a case back that is robust and reliable.
Let’s take a closer look at the steps required to open a Rolex case back.
Before you open a Rolex
Before you open your Rolex, it’s important to know that it is not always a good idea to do so. If you ask most watchmakers, they’ll tell you to leave it to the professionals. And we would agree – unless you know what you are doing. Some people who have no prior experience in watchmaking believe that they can fix their watch themselves if it’s not performing the way it should, for example running too fast or too slow. There are plenty of stories from watchmakers about people who have tried to adjust their movement themselves or tried to put regular oil in the movement, believing that it will help.
Moreover, the attempt of opening the back without knowing how to do so, or doing it without the proper tools can further damage the watch.
It is therefore important to know that you should be very careful opening the back of your watch, and unless you have watchmaking experience, you should refrain from trying to do any adjustments yourself. Rolex movements are complex and consist of many different parts. It requires great experience and expertise to be able to work on one. But if you’re just looking to open the back and inspect the movement inside, you can do so.
Moreover, before you begin, you want to make sure that you remove the bracelet or strap from the watch so that you have free access to the case back.
How to open a Rolex case back
As mentioned, the vast majority of case backs on Rolex watches are screw-down. The general rule is that if it has an Oyster case – which most Rolex watches have, it also has a screw-down case back. There are, however, a few exceptions – in particular very old Rolex watches that are not screw-down, but rather regular closures.
Firstly, when opening the case back, you want to make sure that you are in a dust-free environment as any dirt or dust that comes into the movement can negatively affect the movement.
Secondly, it is of great importance that you use the right tools. Not using the right tools can make it very difficult to open the back. And secondly, using the wrong tools may damage the case back.
Thirdly, take a look at the type of case back your watch has. Even if most Rolex watches have screw-down case backs, each case back is different and will have different sizes. The great thing about this method is that it is easy to use, doesn’t risk damaging the back, and is a one size fits all.
Opening the case back with a rubber ball
For DIYers, the easiest and most convenient tool to use to open a screw-down Rolex case back is a rubber ball. There are rubber balls specifically made for opening case backs that you can find on Amazon. Instead of working as regular tools where you screw using the threading on the back, you push the ball against the back and start to screw.
Opening a Rolex case back with a screwdriver
To open a Rolex case back, you cannot use a regular tool such as a wrench. Instead, you need a special, specific tool for the purpose. Rolex case backs have fine grooves around the edges and therefore, attempting to open it with a regular screwdriver will not work, but rather likely damage the back instead and perhaps make it extremely difficult to open it in the future – even with the proper tools.
With that said, if you want to open it using a screwdriver, it is of utmost importance that you have a tool that is specifically made for Rolex case backs. The catch is that finding these tools is not very easy. You will likely not be able to find the official Rolex tools as these are not for sale. After all, they want only professional Rolex watchmakers to work on their watches. So instead, you need to look for aftermarket alternatives.
Regardless if you are using the rubber ball method or have found Rolex-specific tools, make sure that the watch is stable and safe when you are working on it. Whilst opening the case back, it can also be good to have watchmaking gloves.
