Choose the tool for the fastener or part, then check its size and condition. Precision tools do not make a difficult repair safe by themselves. A slipping driver can damage a screw slot; a tweezer point can mark a hairspring or launch a tiny part.
| Job | Tool to consider | Check before starting |
|---|---|---|
| Case or bracelet screw | Driver that fully engages the slot | Slot width, screw type and access |
| Movement screw | Fine watchmaker's driver | Exact fit and an undamaged, flat blade |
| Handling small parts | Tweezers with an appropriate point | Tip alignment, grip and the part's fragility |
| Spring or hairspring work | Specialist tweezers and training | Whether this is within your skill and equipment |
Drivers: fit matters more than the number in a set
Bergeon's 30081 range is offered in a range of blade widths and has replaceable blades. This illustrates two useful buying checks: compare the tool's stated tip size with the screw, and find out whether replacement blades are available. Do not assume a driver marked with a measurement is suitable without checking the fastener itself.
Seat the blade squarely in the slot before turning. If it rocks, lifts out or needs force, stop and find a better-matched driver. Inspect tips regularly; a chipped or rounded edge is more likely to slip. Keep a driver for delicate movement work separate from jobs that may nick or blunt it.
Tweezers: select by material and point
Different parts call for different tip shapes and materials. Bergeon lists its 7026-5 as a fine steel precision tweezer; that is a product description, not a general guarantee that steel tweezers are suitable around every movement component. Check the movement maker's technical guide and training instructions for the specific task. Keep tips clean, aligned and free from burrs. Use a covered tray so a dropped screw does not disappear across the bench.
For a first kit, buy only the driver sizes required by your chosen task and a general-purpose pair of tweezers. A larger assortment can wait until you know what your work uses. The starter tools guide compares tools by job; for strap work, see the strap tool guide.
Know when to stop
Do not practise on a valuable or sentimental watch. If a screw is seized, its slot is already damaged, or a spring is under tension, stop rather than applying more force. Opening a watch can void its warranty and its water resistance. Water-resistance testing needs proper equipment. Use a training movement or ask a watch repairer when the correct procedure is unclear.
Sources & further reading
- Bergeon: 30081 watchmaker screwdriver range · Checked 2026-10-25
- Bergeon: precision tweezers 7026-5 · Checked 2026-10-25