How to open a stuck pocketwatch case back

[Don Dahlberg]

I use part of a disposable glove. I carry a 2x2 inch square cut from such a glove when I am out scouting antique shows and flea markets. any high friction material like latex will do the job.

Don Dahlberg

[bchaps]

Hi Bob. About a year ago I received a client's family heirloom Elgin 16s to clean and lubricate. I had the same problem you're experiencing...absolutely could not screw off the back. I posed the question to this message board and received three similar suggestions. Here is what worked for me.

Locate a piece of clean flat steel or heavy glass, (smooth formica surface such as a sink cut-out might work also). Lay a circular bed of hot glue as large as the diameter of your watch onto this clean heavy surface. Before the glue sets, press the watch back-down into the glue and allow the glue to set. Once set, securely grip the watch case, careful to not exert any pressure on the pendant, and turn. To my amazement, the back began to unscrew, yielding to years of dirt and green oxidation. And the best part is cleanup. Just peel the glue and watch off the smooth surface and then peel the glue from the watch. That was when I first realized the worth of this message board! Bill