Opening/Closing the Back

Learn how to safely open and close your SB Watch to replace the battery or adjust the watch face.

Tools You’ll Need

Professional tools are inexpensive and make the process faster and safer. If you don’t have them, household items can work as alternatives.

For SB Watch Steel (Screw-Back Case)

Recommended:

• Watch case wrench (available at jewelry/watch repair shops, Amazon, eBay, or hardware stores)

Alternatives:

• Pair of scissors
• Blue tack (adhesive putty)

For Modern/Pocket Models (Snap-Off Back)

Recommended:

• Watch case opener tool
• Watch press (for closing)

Alternatives:

• Small flat-head screwdriver
• Sharp knife (be careful!)
• Flat, clean surface + body weight (for closing)

SB Watch Steel (Screw-Back)

The Steel model has a screw-back case that twists off and on.

Opening

1. Position the watch face-down on a soft cloth to prevent scratches
2. Use watch case wrench or scissors to grip the notches on the case back
3. Apply downward pressure and turn counterclockwise to unscrew the back
4. Lift off the case back once it’s fully unscrewed

Alternative method (blue tack):

• Press blue tack onto the case back
• Apply downward pressure and twist counterclockwise

Closing

1. Align the case back with the watch case
2. Place back on and turn clockwise until finger-tight
3. Use watch case wrench or scissors to tighten securely (don’t overtighten!)

Video Guides

Using scissors:

Using watch case wrench:

Full battery replacement (includes opening/closing):

Modern and Pocket Models (Snap-Off Back)

These models have a snap-off back that pops off with pressure.

Opening

1. Find the small tab on the edge of the case back (there’s a small notch)
2. Insert watch opener, screwdriver, or knife into the notch
3. Use as a lever to gently pry the back open
4. Lift off the case back once it pops free

⚠️ Be careful:

• Don’t scratch the watch case
• Don’t hurt yourself with sharp tools
• Don’t damage the movement inside

Closing

1. Align the notch on the case back with the crown stem
2. Press down firmly until the back snaps into place
3. Listen for the “click” — you should feel and hear it snap

If you can’t close it by hand:

• Use a watch press to apply even pressure
• Or place watch face-up on a flat, clean surface
• Cover with a soft cloth
• Press down firmly with your palm or body weight until it snaps

⚠️ Important: Make sure the notch on the case back aligns with the crown stem, or it won’t close properly.

Video Guide

Safety Tips

• Work over a soft cloth to prevent scratches and catch small parts
• Don’t force anything — If it’s not working, check your technique
• Be gentle — The movement inside is delicate
• Keep track of small parts — Don’t lose the case back or screws

When to Open Your Watch

You’ll need to open the back for:

• Battery replacement (every 6 months)
• Rotating the watch face (if misaligned from impact)

Professional Help

If you’re uncomfortable opening your watch, a jeweler or watchmaker can help. However, they may not be able to test functionality or calibrate the watch without the TimeSmith app, so it’s helpful to understand the process yourself.