Hamilton 8480A - how to open case back?

[Seckardan]

Hello All,

Would anybody be able to tell me how to open the case back on this watch? It looks like a snap back but I’ve tried multiple times with no luck and I’m afraid I’m going to mark the back if I continue.

[RichardHarris123]

It looks like a snap back, nothing for unscrewing.  You might have to work a one sided razor blade around the back. 

[AndyGSi]

Welcome to the forum.

There should be a slight indent most likely near on of the case lugs.

What tool are you trying to use?

[Seckardan]

Here are the two tools I’ve tried using.

[mikepilk]

Those tools can be tricky to use without damage to the watch, or yourself. I much prefer the following. You can buy them for about £15 from ebay.

[AndyGSi]

44 minutes ago, Seckardan said:

Here are the two tools I’ve tried using.

I'd favour the yellow handled one as easier to wedge in.

Have you checked all around the back for an indent?

[Seckardan]

Thanks for the advice. I was actually looking at one of those tools on Amazon so I may pick one up.
 

Also, I’ve looked the whole way around, and there doesn’t seem to be a slight indent anywhere.

[tomh207]

Usually I can spot them wearing just reading glasses, sometimes though, mostly been omega iirc, I have had to use magnification and run a piece of sharpened peg wood around the caseback to find it. I have had a couple that I just couldn’t see it until I had taken the back off with a craft knife blade and a light tap with a watchmaker hammer.

 

Tom

[mikepilk]

I just finished a ladies Tudor watch with a Rolex case. I wanted to change the acrylic. It  took me a while to figure the bezel was actually removable, it was such a close fit. There was with no indent at all. So I had to work around with a razor blade. It's not difficult, just slowly work your way around, gradually opening a gap. Hold to movement in a thick cloth to prevent blood loss 

[Seckardan]

Thanks for the help everyone. I eventually got it open. I appreciate it!