A precision stainless steel positioning awl with two working ends, designed by watchmakers to manipulate spring bars and bracelet pins. A compact dual-purpose tool for any workbench.
Product overview
This watchmaker tool is a positioning awl manufactured in stainless steel, measuring 8 cm in length. It is equipped with two heads that complement each other for the daily handling of spring bars and pins. The first head is a small fork-shaped hook that grips and positions or removes a spring bar between a case lug and a bracelet end. The second head is a fine point used to push pins, align link holes or guide any small bar found on a watch.
Technical specifications
- Material: stainless steel
- Length: 8 cm
- Heads: hook (spring bar) + fine point (pins / alignment)
- Application: positioning or removing spring bars, manipulating pins, aligning links
- Format: lightweight, pocket-size, corrosion resistant
When to use it
Use the positioning awl whenever you need to change a watch strap or bracelet, replace a spring bar, fit a new clasp or align bracelet links. The hook end is the most efficient way to compress a spring bar against the case ear, while the point is the perfect helper to start a pin through a link hole. The tool is also valuable for adjusting the clasp of a bracelet or removing a stubborn spring bar from a folding buckle.
How to use / install
- Hold the watch firmly on a soft cloth.
- Place the hook of the awl on the shoulder of the spring bar.
- Apply gentle pressure to compress the spring bar.
- Slide the bracelet or strap out of the lugs.
- To fit a new strap, position one end of the spring bar in the lug, compress with the hook and slide the other end into place.
- Use the pointed end to align bracelet link holes and start any small pin.
Quality & origin
This watchmaker tool is selected, checked and shipped from our workshop in France. Each piece is inspected before dispatch to ensure that the heads are correctly formed and free of burrs. Orders are usually shipped within 24 to 48 working hours.
FAQ
Will the awl scratch my case?
If used correctly, no. Always apply the hook on the spring bar and not on the case itself.
Is it suitable for Rolex or Omega spring bars?
Yes, the head fits standard spring bars. For some specific bars, dedicated factory tools may be preferred.
Can I use the pointed end as a punch with a hammer?
No, it is a positioning point. For driving pins use a dedicated pin punch with a hammer.
Tips for safe use
Always work on a clean, soft surface to protect the case and the dial from scratches. Wear cotton gloves or use finger-cots when handling polished surfaces, since fingerprints can affect gaskets and lubricants over time. Keep your watchmaker tools organised on a dedicated tray and inspect them regularly for wear, burrs or deformation; a damaged tool is the first cause of a damaged watch. After each operation, wipe the tool with a dry cloth and store it away from humidity.
Why choose this tool
This item is selected from a long-running catalogue dedicated to professional watchmakers and to enthusiasts who service their own pieces at home. We test every reference on real watches in the workshop before adding it to the shop, so you receive a tool that we use ourselves. Combined with our French customer support, this gives you a reliable partner for every repair, from a battery change to a full strap fitting.
Is this tool suitable for beginners?
Yes. It is straightforward to use and does not require any prior watchmaking training. We still recommend practicing on an old watch before working on a valuable piece.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we ship across Europe and worldwide from our workshop in France, with tracked options available at checkout.
