Making Case Press Die?

[jdm]

I'm having trouble closing a small fashion snapback - just as I had trouble opening it. I believe that is because the case back is oval and slightly raised in the center, so the die presses there, making it flex instead of pressing down the edges.

 

Has anyone had luck building a custom die from hard wood, filed to push just the edge of the case back?

[atimegoneby]

Hi jdm,

 

I've had this problem many times especially with larger diameter watches & using nylon dies, the dies tend to flex like a diaphragm absorbing the force of the press. I have improvised with wood & it works, always a relief when the back snaps on though !.  Good luck ! 

[jdm]

Thanks, in my case (no pun intended) it's the case back that flexes, as the die is thick and strong despite being inadequate. I'll see what can I do with wood then. This is certainly an hobby of thousand trades.

[cdjswiss]

Make a die in epoxy putty, taking care to place first a thin sheet of polythene on the case back then the putty and then a disc of whatever.

Edited October 30, 2015 by cdjswiss

[clockboy]

I'm having trouble closing a small fashion snapback - just as I had trouble opening it. I believe that is because the case back is oval and slightly raised in the center, so the die presses there, making it flex instead of pressing down the edges.

 

Has anyone had luck building a custom die from hard wood, filed to push just the edge of the case back?

I think your diagnosis is probably correct. I have found that a tiny bit of silicone grease on then rim really helps.

[jdm]

Closed! The dies I made are too crude to be shown here, but worked. It's incredible how much work can stem from a battery change. My wife is very happy to be able to wear again her CK.

 

[ro63rto]

Still looks a little proud on the top portion.

[jdm]

Still looks a little proud on the top portion.

 

Maybe a picture effect, but it's flush with case all around. It did not snap, it went in place slowly.

Edited November 24, 2015 by jdm