How To Remove Watch Stem

Tools you’ll need

To successfully remove a watch stem, you will need a few essential tools. These tools will help you safely and effectively dismantle your timepiece. Here’s a list of items you should have on hand:

Watchmaker’s Screwdrivers: A set of precision screwdrivers in various sizes is crucial for removing the screws that hold the watch components together.
Tweezers: Fine-pointed tweezers will help you handle small watch parts with precision and care.
Caseback Opener: Depending on the type of watch, you may need a caseback opener to remove the back cover.
Watch Holder: A watch holder will keep your timepiece secure and stable during the stem removal process.
Stem Removal Tool: A stem removal tool is specifically designed to safely detach the watch stem from the movement.
Lubricant: It’s always a good idea to have a watch lubricant on hand to ensure smooth functionality after reassembling the watch.
Protective Gloves: These gloves are optional but highly recommended to protect the watch from oil and fingerprints.

Having these tools readily available will make the process of removing a watch stem much easier and ensure that you can handle the delicate components without causing any damage.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Before starting the process of removing the watch stem, it’s essential to set up a clean and organized workspace. This will help you avoid losing any small components and ensure a smooth and efficient workflow. Follow these steps to prepare your workspace:

Clean and Clear Surface: Find a well-lit area with ample space to work on. Clear the surface of any clutter and clean it to prevent any dirt or debris from getting into the watch.
Use a Soft Work Mat: Place a soft, non-abrasive work mat on the surface to provide a cushioned and scratch-resistant area to disassemble the watch.
Organize Your Tools: Lay out all the necessary tools mentioned earlier in an organized manner. This will ensure that you can easily locate and access each tool when needed.
Prepare a Parts Tray: Use a parts tray or small containers to keep track of screws, springs, and other tiny watch components. This will prevent them from rolling and getting lost during the process.
Wear Protective Gear: Consider wearing protective gloves to keep oil and fingerprints off the watch and to protect your hands from any sharp edges.

By taking the time to prepare your workspace properly, you’ll create an environment conducive to efficiently removing the watch stem. This will help ensure a smooth and successful process with minimal risk of damaging the timepiece. Remember to work methodically and exercise caution with each step to maintain the integrity of the watch’s delicate components.

Step 2: Examine the Watch Stem

Before proceeding with the removal of the watch stem, it’s essential to examine it closely. This step will help you identify any potential issues or complications that may arise during the process. Follow these guidelines to examine the watch stem:

Inspect for Damage: Carefully examine the watch stem for any visible signs of damage, such as bends, cracks, or rust. If you notice any issues, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance to avoid further damage to the timepiece.
Check the Crown: Look closely at the crown, which is the part of the watch stem that you use to set the time. Ensure that it is functioning correctly and is not loose or damaged.
Observe the Stem Threads: Take note of the threads on the stem. They should be clean, intact, and free from any debris or corrosion. If you notice any problems with the threads, it’s best to consult a professional watchmaker for repairs.
Document or Take Pictures: Consider documenting or taking pictures of the watch stem and its components before you proceed with removal. This documentation can serve as a reference if you encounter any difficulties during the reassembly process.

By carefully examining the watch stem, you can identify any potential issues that may affect the removal process. This step helps ensure that you approach the task with the necessary knowledge and understanding of the condition of the watch stem. Remember, if you encounter any doubts or concerns, it’s always best to consult a professional watchmaker for assistance.

Step 3: Remove the Crown

Removing the crown is an important step in detaching the watch stem from the movement. Follow these instructions carefully to safely remove the crown:

Position the Watch: Hold the watch firmly in your non-dominant hand, making sure it is stable and secure.
Locate the Crown: Identify the crown, which is typically located on the side of the watch case. It may be engraved with a small arrow or have a small notch.
Unscrew the Crown: Gently turn the crown counterclockwise to unscrew it from the case. Be cautious and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damaging the threads.
Release the Stem: Once the crown is unscrewed, carefully pull it outwards to release the stem from the movement. Some watches may have a button or release mechanism that needs to be pressed while pulling the crown.
Keep Components Safe: Place the crown in a safe location, along with any accompanying washers or gaskets. These small components are easily lost, so it’s essential to keep them organized and secure.

By removing the crown, you have successfully detached the watch stem from the movement, allowing for further disassembly if necessary. Ensure that you handle the crown and its accompanying components with care to avoid misplacing or damaging them. Keep them in a secure location for later reassembly. With the crown removed, you can proceed to the next step in the watch stem removal process.

Step 4: Detach the Stem

After removing the crown, the next step in removing the watch stem is to detach it from the movement. Carefully follow these instructions to successfully detach the stem:

Locate the Stem Release Button: Look for a small button or lever adjacent to the stem. This release button is typically found on the side of the movement and may require a slight push or pull.
Press or Pull the Stem Release Button: Use a gentle touch to press or pull the stem release button, depending on its design. This action will disengage the stem from the movement.
Remove the Stem: Once the stem is released, carefully pull it outwards from the movement. Take note of any resistance and ensure a steady, even removal without applying excessive force.
Inspect the Stem and Movement: Examine both the detached stem and the movement for any signs of damage or wear. If necessary, clean the stem and the surrounding area to ensure smooth operation.

Detaching the stem is a crucial step in the watch stem removal process. Take your time and handle the stem and movement with care to avoid any potential damage. By following these steps, you have successfully detached the stem, allowing for further inspection or replacement if needed.

Step 5: Replacing the Stem

If you need to replace the watch stem or simply reattach it after cleaning or repairs, follow these steps to ensure a proper and secure fit:

Prepare the Replacement Stem: If you are replacing the stem, make sure you have the correct replacement part that matches your watch model. Clean and inspect the new stem to ensure its integrity.
Align the Stem: Position the stem in alignment with the movement’s stem tube. Ensure that the threads on the stem are properly aligned with the corresponding threads inside the stem tube.
Insert the Stem: Carefully insert the stem into the stem tube, applying slight pressure as needed. Avoid forcing the stem to prevent damaging the threads or other delicate components.
Engage the Stem: Once the stem is inserted, rotate it clockwise to engage the threads and secure it into place. Gently tighten the stem until it feels snug but not overly tight.
Test the Stem: Check the functionality of the stem by pushing and pulling it to ensure it smoothly adjusts the hands and date (if applicable). Verify that the stem is securely in place and operates correctly.

By following these steps, you can successfully replace or reattach the watch stem. Always ensure proper alignment and gentle handling to avoid any damage during the process. If you encounter any difficulties or uncertainties, consult a professional watchmaker for guidance.

Step 6: Test the Watch Stem

After replacing or reattaching the watch stem, it’s crucial to test its functionality to ensure that it operates smoothly. Follow these steps to test the watch stem:

Set the Time: Use the crown (if reattached) or the appropriate mechanism to set the time on the watch. Verify that the stem adjusts the hands accurately and smoothly.
Toggle the Functions: For watches with additional functionalities like a date or day display, test the stem’s ability to adjust these functions. Confirm that the stem properly changes the desired features without any issues.
Check for Smooth Operation: While adjusting the time and other functions, observe the stem’s movement. It should glide smoothly without any stiffness or resistance, indicating that it is correctly installed and functioning optimally.
Inspect for Stability: Ensure that the stem remains securely attached and does not wiggle or loosen during use. A properly installed stem should remain firmly in place without any signs of instability.

By testing the watch stem after reinstallation or replacement, you can ensure its proper functioning and reliability. This step is crucial in verifying that the stem adjustment mechanisms are working smoothly and that the watch can be operated accurately. If you encounter any issues or irregularities during the testing process, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance to address the problem effectively.

Step 7: Reassemble the Watch

After successfully testing the watch stem and ensuring its proper functionality, it’s time to reassemble the watch. Follow these steps to carefully put the components back together:

Retrieve the Components: Take out the crown, washers, and any other parts that were removed during the stem removal process.
Insert the Crown: Align the crown with the stem and carefully insert it back into the stem tube. Rotate the crown clockwise to screw it back into place, ensuring a secure fit.
Tighten the Crown: Ensure that the crown is securely tightened but not overly tight. It should be snug enough to prevent any movement or wobbling.
Double-check the Functions: Test the watch functions once more to ensure that the stem operates smoothly and accurately adjusts the time and other features.
Secure the Caseback: If you had to remove the caseback, reattach it carefully using the appropriate tools. Make sure the caseback is tightly secured, ensuring the watch remains protected.
Clean and Inspect: Wipe down the watch with a lint-free cloth to remove any fingerprints or smudges. Inspect the watch to ensure everything is in order and that no parts are loose or misplaced.

By following these steps, you can successfully reassemble your watch after the stem removal process. Take your time to ensure all components are properly aligned and securely fastened. Remember to handle the watch with care during this stage to avoid any accidental damage. Once reassembled, your watch should be ready to wear and continue keeping time accurately.