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Caseback (Exhibition, Closed, Solid)

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A caseback refers to the back cover of a watch, which can be exhibition (transparent to display the movement), closed (opaque and not see-through), or solid (providing additional durability and protection).

What does

Caseback (Exhibition, Closed, Solid)

mean?

A caseback is the rear cover of a watch case, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. It protects the internal components of the watch, such as the movement, from dust, moisture, and damage. There are three main types of casebacks: exhibition, closed, and solid.

An exhibition caseback features a transparent window, often made of sapphire crystal or mineral glass, allowing the wearer to view the intricate workings of the watch movement. This type is popular among enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship and mechanical beauty of the watch's inner workings.

A closed caseback is typically opaque and does not allow visibility of the movement. It is often made of metal and may feature engravings or brand logos. Closed casebacks provide a more traditional appearance and can offer better protection against water and dust.

A solid caseback is similar to a closed caseback but is usually more robust and thicker, providing enhanced durability and resistance to external elements. Solid casebacks are often found in dive watches or those designed for rugged use, where additional protection is necessary.

Each type of caseback serves a specific purpose, catering to different preferences and functional requirements in watchmaking.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of watch casebacks?

The three main caseback types are: Exhibition (sapphire crystal window allowing movement viewing), Solid (opaque metal back, snap-fit or screwed), and Closed (older term for any opaque caseback). Exhibition casebacks showcase decorated movements and are popular on mechanical watches where the movement is a selling point. Solid casebacks may be engraved with model information, serial numbers, or decorative motifs. Screw-down solid casebacks provide better water resistance than snap-fit versions.

Do exhibition casebacks affect water resistance?

Exhibition casebacks use a sapphire crystal sealed with a gasket, providing water resistance comparable to solid casebacks when properly maintained. However, the seal degrades over time and requires replacement during service to maintain rated water resistance. For professional dive watches requiring maximum reliability, solid screw-down casebacks are generally preferred. Most watches with exhibition backs are rated to 30-100m—adequate for splashes and swimming but not serious diving.

How do you open different types of casebacks?

Snap-fit casebacks use a notched edge and require a case knife or case back opener to pry them open—skill is needed to avoid scratching. Screw-down casebacks require a specialized case wrench with adjustable dies that fit into notches on the caseback circumference; never use improvised tools. Exhibition casebacks are typically either snap-fit or screwed, using the same opening methods. Attempting caseback removal without proper tools risks scratching the case, damaging seals, or rounding the opening notches.

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