I have done damage to the back of a couple nice watch cases by using a case opening knife. This was in spite of great care and attempts to follow the instructions of experts, etc. I have used the Seiko item that is similar to the above unit and have had excellent results. The opening blade is very carefully controlled with a screw adjustment, and the case is firmly held by the pins (steel with nylon covers). It leaves virtually no mark. While any tool can do a crappy job if mishandled, case openers have probably done more damage, even in the hands of professionals, than any other horological tool.
I have several watches with snap backs, and I prefer to do my own battery changes. I've more than paid for the cost of the tool by doing this, and I feel I can confidently help out friends as well without accidentally gouging their jewelry.
My next purchase will probably be a case opening press so I can more safely open my screw-backs. It will set me back close to, if not over, 200 smackers. I'll consider it well worth it.
David
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