How to Turn a Broken Watch Into a Locket Bracelet

Last Updated: December 23, 2021 Approved

Before you toss that beloved watch, consider repurposing it into a fashionable bracelet that dons a photo of that favorite person or pet in your life. While wearing a locket with a beloved’s photo around your neck is considered to be traditional, turn tradition on its head with this trendy watch/locket.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Choosing the Watch Background

1
Select a suitable background photo. Look for a photo that has character and will complement the style of the watch. If the photo is not already sized to fit the area, edit it in your photo program or take it to a professional print shop for proper sizing.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Preparing the Watch

1
Remove the watch face. Using the screwdriver, remove the watch face. You may be able to simply pop it from the watch using a dull kitchen knife too (depending upon the watch).
2
Remove watch hands and any hardware holding these in place. Ensure there is nothing on the watch face that could puncture or compromise the photo once you mount it.
3
Dust and/or clean the watch. Especially if the watch has not been cleaned in some time, you’ll want to make sure its free of debris and dirt. Use either a soft cloth or jewelry cleaner (depending upon the type of watch).
- If you plan to cover the watch face area with a material, now is a good time to do so. Adhere material with a hot glue gun or super strength glue (depending upon the watch).

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Adding the Decoration

1
Mount the photo inside the watch face. Add a few small dabs of glue to hold it in place. Avoid letting the glue ooze from the sides, while still ensuring the photo stays firmly in place.
2
Cover the watch glass face that you previously removed and put back in place. If you plan to cover the glass, be sure the material has been precisely sized to fit. However, if you plan to keep it clear, simply return the glass to the watch face and screw or pop in place. Your new locket bracelet is ready to wear.

Community Q&A

Question

How can I make it a necklace?

T. Chinsen

Top Answerer

The article example used an elastic beaded band. Attach and secure an extension of the desired length to the bead band. Secure the other end of the extension to the other side of the first attachment. You then cut apart the bracelet section. This minimizes restringing the bracelet section. Any other format will require attaching the necklace to the watch segment.