I'm sure this has been covered before but I couldn't seem to find a thread.

Is is it correct that slightly longer springbars are needed when switching a speedmaster pro from bracelet to strap?

The ones I currently have are 068st2207.

For a strap am I ok with these or is it better to use 068st2208?


Cheers

 

For my old uns I use the same SBs when switching strap/bracelet

 

(unless you are changing regularly on the same watch)

Personally, I always replace the spring bars.

Use the thickest that fit both the strap and the holes in the lugs. There are a few lengths you will need - probably 18mm to 22mm (4 lengths) and thicknesses of 1.6mm and 1.8mm (2 thicknesses), so 8 different bar sizes. I use double flanged bars for lugs that are not drilled all the way through or single shouldered for lugs that are. So, that's 16 packs at an average of £1.25 covers me for almost all eventualities - £20 gives me 20 of each of the 16 sizes

Sometimes you will need female spring bars or 2.0mm thick ones, but these are bought on an individual basis.

 

LoL. My collection isn't that deep, yet. One day ....

 

As said here, the correct spring bars for Speedy pro on strap are 068ST2208.

 

I´d also like to know the correct part number for the Speedy Pro on bracelet

 

Thanks. If 068st2208 is for the bracelet, then 068st2207 is the bracelet ref no. ThTs what I've got now and they're just slight shorter, looks like about 22mm unsprung.

 

Sorry, that should say 068st2207 is the ref no for strap spring bars

 

David, I think you wanted to say 068st2208 is the part number for strap, and 068st2207 is the part number for bracelet. Isn´t it?

 

Good lord!! I'll get there in the end! Yes, that's exactly what I meant.

Im in a bit pre-occupied at the minute as sinehow I've just pulled the winding stem out of my 321 while adjusting the time!!

 

Has anyone else inadvertently pulled out the stem while pulling the crown to adjust the time? I presume this means the retaining screw us loose or broken? Is it worth trying to re-fit the stem to the watch myself or should it go to a watchmaker?

 

It happens, and usually means the little screw which locks the stem into position has slackened off. This is a simple fix. However, it could also mean that parts of the dial-side works have become worn or broken (setting lever, setting lever spring), and if that is so then you will need a good watchmaker.

 

Thanks John. It only came back from a full service two weeks ago so there shouldn't be any issues with wear. I didn't apply excessive force, it just seemed to come out when I applied the usual pressure with my nail.

Whats the process for putting it back in?

 

Send it back to your watchmaker. It could be that he didn't properly tighten the screw for the setting lever or it could be something else. If you open the case, to access the screw, he would be within his rights to refuse to carry out any remedial work.

 

+1

 

Hi, Ok, let me get this right I have a 145.012 67 with a 1039/516 bracelet so I just ordered a dozen 068ST2208 is everyone now saying that these are not good for the bracelet, and I have to by the 068ST2207 for my bracelet and then use the 068ST2208 for my straps?? I was also told that the 068ST2207 where best used for the newer models that have 20mm lugs because they have much tighter endlinks......can someone just confirm this. Thanks Guys

 

I believe the shorter springbars, ending 07, are recommended for bracelets are they are easier to fit inside rigid end links. Also, as bracelets are rigid, they prevent the springbars from flexing, hence the shorter ones are fine.

As straps flex somewhat and don't use end links, the slightly longer 08 bars are recommended.

I guess the longer ones you have ordered will be fine, just harder to fit with the end links in place.

 

To be honest I'm losing a bit of faith in this watchmaker. I had two speedmasters serviced, within a couple of days of getting them back, the reset pusher seized on one. Now this has happened to the other.

Am I expecting too much?

 

Cousins UK have them in stock but the picture on the site differs from actual product, anyone can tell me if it's ok to order?

 

I think you are in the same situation as many/most of us... no local watchmakers we can really trust to get it right every time. I suppose if your watchmaker is willing to take the work back and make it right, that is a positive. I just had a LONG discussion with one of my local watchmakers, I asked him to swap the hands on a watch for me, but made sure he really understood that the dial cannot under any circumstances get scratched in this process. Should it be necessary for me to say that? No. Did I feel compelled to do so as a reminder not to do the job quick&dirty..yes. My fingers are now crossed waiting.