The Ultimate Guide to Watch Tools: What You Actually Need

Whether you're a casual watch wearer, a budding collector, or someone who loves customising straps and maintaining their own timepieces, owning the right watch tools can make all the difference. From simple strap changes to everyday cleaning and small adjustments, the proper tools help you extend the life of your watches and keep them looking as good as new.

At That Watch Shop, you’ll find a wide range of watch tools, repair kits, strap adjusters, cleaning accessories, and protectors designed for both beginners and experienced watch enthusiasts. This guide breaks down the essential watch tools you actually need — without overcomplicating things.

Why Watch Tools Matter

Watches are delicate instruments, built with precision and craftsmanship. Even the smallest task — like adjusting a metal bracelet or changing a leather strap — can result in scratches or damage if done incorrectly.

Watch tools allow you to:

• Adjust straps for a perfect fit
  

• Change straps safely
  

• Maintain your watch without visiting a professional
  

• Clean and protect your timepiece.

• Avoid accidental damage to lugs, clasps, or crystals
  
  

Instead of improvising with household items like needles, knives, or screwdrivers, the right tools ensure accuracy and safety.

1. Spring Bar Tools: A Must-Have for Strap Changes

If there’s one watch tool every owner needs, it’s a spring bar tool. This tool is designed to remove and install spring bars — the tiny metal pins that attach straps to the lugs.

A spring bar tool helps you:

• Change leather, silicone, or NATO straps
  

• Swap metal bracelets
  

• Remove quick-release bars safely
  

• Avoid scratching the case or lugs
  
  

You’ll find durable spring bar tools and strap-changing kits on thatwatchshop.co.nz, perfect for quick strap swaps and home adjustments.

2. Link Removal Tools: For Metal Bracelet Adjustments

Metal bracelets often need resizing to achieve the perfect fit. Too loose, and your watch slides around and hits surfaces; too tight, and it becomes uncomfortable.

The right link removal tool helps you:

• Remove excess bracelet links
  

• Add or reinsert links
  

• Achieve a snug, comfortable fit
  

• Avoid paying for a jeweller to resize your bracelet
  
  

That Watch Shop offers bracelet adjustment tools and pin-removal kits suitable for stainless steel, titanium, and alloy watch bands.

3. Watch Case Back Openers: For Battery Replacement

If you want to change your own batteries or inspect the internal components of a watch, a case back opener is essential.

There are different types:

• Wrench-style openers for screw-back cases
  

• Pry openers for simple snap-back cases
  

• Precision screwdrivers for watches using tiny screws
  
  

That Watch Shop’s tool collection includes multipurpose repair kits containing case openers, screwdrivers, and tweezers — ideal for DIY battery replacement.

4. Microfiber Cloths & Cleaning Brushes

Cleaning is often overlooked, but dirt, sweat, and dust can lead to corrosion or micro-scratches over time. Proper cleaning tools help maintain shine and prevent damage.

A good cleaning kit should include:

• Microfiber cloths – perfect for wiping crystals and polished surfaces
  

• Soft-bristled brushes – great for cleaning between links and bezel edges
  

• Watch-safe cleaning solutions – specially formulated to avoid harming metal or coatings
  
  

Find watch cleaning cloths and tools in the Watch Accessories section of thatwatchshop.co.nz to keep your timepiece looking new.

5. Watch Holders & Mats: Work Safely Without Slipping

A watch holder keeps your timepiece steady while you work on it. This prevents accidental slips that could scratch the case or crystal.

Watch holders are ideal for:

• Strap changes
  

• Case back opening
  

• Bracelet adjustments
  

• Cleaning and servicing
  
  

Pair your holder with a soft anti-scratch watch mat to protect polished surfaces.

6. Watch Storage Boxes & Travel Cases: Essential Accessories

Having the right tools is one thing — storing your watches properly is just as important. A watch can get scratched inside a suitcase, drawer, or bag if not stored correctly.

That Watch Shop offers:

• Watch travel cases – ideal for keeping watches safe during trips
  

• Watch storage boxes – perfect for home organisation
  

• Watch rolls – great for collectors with multiple pieces.
  
  

Proper storage prevents accidental damage and keeps tools, straps, and watches organised.

7. Protective Accessories: Screen Protectors & Buffing Pads

If you want extra protection, consider using watch screen protectors to guard against scratches on the crystal. These are especially useful for smartwatches or everyday wear pieces.

In addition, buffing cloths can help minimise light scratches on metal surfaces (but should be used with care).

8. Comprehensive Watch Tool Kits: All-in-One Convenience

Beginners often prefer complete tool kits that include:

• Spring bar tool
  

• Screwdrivers
  

• Case back opener
  

• Link removal tool
  

• Tweezers
  

• Cleaning cloth
  
  

You’ll find all-in-one watch repair kits on thatwatchshop.co.nz that are perfect for anyone starting to perform simple watch adjustments at home.

How to Choose the Right Tools

When selecting watch tools, consider:

• Your skill level – beginners benefit from multipurpose kits
  

• The types of watches you own – metal bracelets require link tools, leather straps need spring bar tools
  

• How often you change straps – frequent swappers should invest in durable tools
  

• Your travel habits – portable kits are ideal for taking on the go
  
  

Quality watch tools protect your timepieces and make every adjustment smoother and safer.

Final Thoughts

Watch tools don’t have to be intimidating. With a few essential items — from spring bar tools and link removers to cleaning kits and travel cases — you can easily maintain, customise, and protect your timepieces at home.

That Watch Shop offers a complete selection of watch tools, strap kits, cases, protectors, and cleaning accessories, making it simple to take care of your favourite watches with confidence. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, investing in the right tools ensures your watches stay beautiful, functional, and secure for years to come.