TO UNCASE

To uncase means to extract the Movement from its Case, the reverse operation of casing. It is the first step of any service or repair: the Horologist (watchmaker) separates the mechanism from its External parts (case, dial, hands) in order to work on it. Depending on the construction, uncasing requires first removing the Crown and the Winding stem (by pressing the Setting lever or by unscrewing it depending on the system), to release the case screws or brackets that hold the Movement in place, then to remove the Movement-Dial-hands assembly, usually through the Case back depending on the Calibre and the construction of the Case. The operation requires precautions: protecting the Dial and Hands, avoiding any contact of fingers with the surfaces, not forcing the dial feet and dial pins. Poorly performed uncasing can bend the Winding stem, scratch the Dial or twist a Hand. Uncasing is carried out on a suitable support (casing cushion) and precedes the actual disassembly of the Calibre.