Opening Procedure

Introduction

Use this guide to open your Apple Watch Series 7 for repairs.

Note: The opening procedure for the 41 mm and the 45 mm Apple Watch series 7 is the same. You can use this guide for both models.

This guide shows the procedure on the cellular/LTE version of the watch, but the GPS-only version is similar.

You’ll need replacement adhesive to reattach components when reassembling the device.

Before starting repairs, take your watch off the charger and power it down.
If your touchscreen is broken and you can't power off the watch, use this alternate method to power it down.

Tool used on this step:

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Because the gap between the screen and watch body is so thin, a sharp blade is needed to separate the two. Read the following warnings carefully before proceeding.
Protect your fingers by keeping them completely clear of the knife. If in doubt, protect your free hand with a heavy glove, such as a leather shop glove or gardening glove.
Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this might cause the knife to slip and cut you, or damage the watch.
Wear eye protection. The knife or glass may break, sending pieces flying.
Attach or remove the watch band as needed to provide more control as you make repairs.

Prepare an iOpener and apply it to the screen for at least two minutes to loosen the adhesive underneath.
A hair dryer, heat gun, or hot plate may also be used, but be careful not to overheat the watch—the display and internal battery are both susceptible to heat damage.
You may need to reheat the iOpener and repeat this procedure several times until the display adhesive softens.

Be aware that a sharp tool easily scratches your watch housing when not handled with care. To avoid undesired scratches, take your time and work carefully rather than hastily.
Place the edge of a curved blade into the thin gap between the display and the outer case. Start at the short side of the display, most distant to the digital crown.
Once inserted, tilt the blade to pry the display open slightly and create a gap between the screen and the watch body.
The Apple Watch Series 7 display is equipped with a plastic bezel on its rear side. If you want to reuse your display, avoid using too much pressure with the knife or you may separate the bezel from the screen.

Slide the opening pick around the corner and along the long edge on the opposite side of the watch crown to slice the display adhesive.

Slide the opening pick around the corner to slice the remaining adhesive on the short edge of the watch next to the watch crown.
Don't try to remove the display. It is still connected to the watch assembly.

Be careful not to strain the display cables when you fold the display to the side.
Lift the display and carefully pull it towards the watch crown.
Swing the display open to an upward position.