TWEEZERS

Tweezers are composed of two blades, typically made of metal, which are riveted and/or soldered together at one end. The other end of the blades is shaped according to the specific use of the tweezers, although in most cases, it tapers to a fine point.

Tweezers allow for the precise handling of even the smallest components, protecting them from dirt and oxidation from direct contact with the skin.

Depending on their specific use, tweezers can be made from various materials and come in different shapes and sizes. Steel is frequently used, sometimes being non-magnetic or stainless. Brass or Nickel Silver (maillechort) is also commonly employed, as these materials are softer than steel and are less likely to scratch the surface of the components being handled. Additionally, synthetic materials are appreciated for being even softer than brass and for their non-conductive properties. They are ideal for handling electronic components such as batteries or integrated circuits. Increasingly, tweezers are designed with interchangeable tips, allowing users to select the shape and material according to their needs. These tips can be made from metal, synthetic materials, or wood.

The shape of the tweezers’ tips depends on their function. Tweezers may have finer or broader tips depending on the size of the components being handled; they may be flat for manipulating hands or curved to facilitate access to certain parts of the movement. In some cases, tweezers serve a specific purpose other than handling components. For example, some tweezers are designed to tighten the pipes of watch hands.