Screwdriver Size confirmation needed

[Candubrain]

I purchased from another member a 216570 Explorer and awaiting delivery. I know I will need to remove links for my 7" wrist and I need to purchase a hollow ground screwdriver.

Checking several postings, I'm confused, do I need a 1.4 or a 1.6mm screwdriver for the new Explorer II?

thanks
b

[Vanessa CW21]

1.6mm screwdriver

Make sure the blade is 100% flat and straight!
You'll have to heat up the link on the side of the back of the screw to loosen the Loctite. It is very important to have a good grip and to push down on the screwdriver to not slip off and create damage. Watch your fingers though! Those little screwdrivers dig deep into the skin if you do slip!

[Candubrain]

Thank you Vanessa.
But I guarantee you I'll be gouging my fingers, it's a given
Happy Holidays
b

[padi56]

Originally Posted by Candubrain

Thank you Vanessa.
But I guarantee you I'll be gouging my fingers, it's a given
Happy Holidays
b

With the correct blade size as Vanessa pointed out you will be fine for extra caution put some tape around bracelet screw area just encase blade slips.

[Candubrain]

Originally Posted by padi56

With the correct blade size as Vanessa pointed out you will be fine for extra caution put some tape around bracelet screw area just encase blade slips.

that's a good tip, thanks

[KBM]

Originally Posted by Vanessa

1.6mm screwdriver

Make sure the blade is 100% flat and straight!
You'll have to heat up the link on the side of the back of the screw to loosen the Loctite. It is very important to have a good grip and to push down on the screwdriver to not slip off and create damage. Watch your fingers though! Those little screwdrivers dig deep into the skin if you do slip!

Vanessa, which do you think is the best way to heat up the link? I am afraid that putting a flame directly in contact with the bracelet of my 114060 will leave marks on it.

[KBM]

Vanessa, I just came upon your oil lamp reply, so nevermind my question. Thanks for sharing!

[SALTY]

A butane cigarette lighter works fine, soot marks wipe off easily. Don't burn your fingers.

[rmfnla]

Originally Posted by Vanessa CW21

1.6mm screwdriver

Make sure the blade is 100% flat and straight!
You'll have to heat up the link on the side of the back of the screw to loosen the Loctite. It is very important to have a good grip and to push down on the screwdriver to not slip off and create damage. Watch your fingers though! Those little screwdrivers dig deep into the skin if you do slip!

What I think you mean is look for hollow-ground blades, which feature parallel surfaces, rather than a wedge-shaped blade.

This ensure full engagement between the blade and the sides of the screw slot and reduces the possibility of slipping.

[kaseri]

Check this link -

http://rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=323455

[rmfnla]

Originally Posted by kaseri

Check this link -

http://rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=323455

Good link; post #8 has a great pic showing the difference between hollow ground and wedge-shaped screwdriver blades.

As one of the posters on that thread says, a "regular" screwdriver can be used if done carefully, but to me the purpose of TRF is to share information, not make excuses for doing things half-a$$ed...

[kaseri]

I actually started that thread to share info regarding the proper screwdriver. The combination I posted works just as well as the Rolex tool and its cheaper and it's available.

[kaseri]

On a side note the Panerai 1.6 mm "cut-out" screwdriver supplied with the Luminor works perfectly for Oyster bracelet screws.

[sheldonsmith]

I wish I knew of the OFrei link 10 years ago. Looks like a great tool and yes on the 1.6mm. My favorite tool is the SeaDweller screwdriver, but those are not priced at a premium on theBay.. Some installation tips posted at http://www.minus4plus6.com/maintenance.htm#SD

-Sheldon

[Alessio Scala]

i have buy a bergeon 1,6 mm and sanded the very fine tip on flat surface just about 1/2 mm. so now the screwdriver go depper and firmly on the slot of the screw and i can put more force whitout damaging the head of the screw