How to Remove Watch Pins with a Pin Pusher

By Jewellery Tools UK — Hand Tools for Jewellers & Silversmiths | Published: 2026-10-28

Category: How-to Guides

Learn the correct way to use a watch pin pusher to remove watch band pins without scratching the links or bending the tool.

Quick answer

Use a watch pin pusher with a fine steel point to locate the pin recess first, then push steadily to remove the pin without slipping or scratching the links.

Why precision matters

Removing watch pins is a common repair, but it goes wrong the moment the pusher skates off the pin. A slip can scratch the link, bend the pin, or leave you apologising to the customer. Using the right technique and a sharp, fine-pointed tool keeps the job clean and safe.

A dedicated watch scribe, like the Watch Repair Pin Pusher & Scribe from Jewellery Tools UK, is designed for this exact step. Its sharp steel point seats in the link-pin recess first, so the pin is located accurately before you bring in the pusher or hammer. This prevents slips and ensures the pin comes out straight.

Step-by-step guide

Prepare your workspace: Place the watch on a clean, soft surface or a pin removal block. Ensure good lighting so you can see the pin direction clearly. Check that the pin is oriented correctly before you start.
Locate the pin recess: Use the scribe point of the tool to feel for the small recess on the link where the pin sits. This ensures you are pushing against the pin, not the link edge. If you cannot feel the recess, do not force it; adjust the angle.
Push the pin out: Align the pin pusher tip in the recess and apply steady, even pressure. Push until the pin protrudes from the opposite side, then pull it out with tweezers. Stop if the pin does not move; re-check alignment to avoid bending the pin.

Tools that help

Watch Repair Pin Pusher & Scribe — Sharp Steel Point, Wooden Handle, 5.2″ × 0.8″ × 0.2″: This tool combines a pin pusher and a scribe with a sharp steel point and a wooden handle, sized at 5.2″ × 0.8″ × 0.2″. The scribe end lets you locate the pin recess accurately before pushing, reducing the risk of slipping and scratching the watch links.
Watch Repair Pin Pusher & Scribe — Sharp Steel Point, Wooden Handle, 5.2″ × 0.8″ × 0.2″