2231.50 - Titanium Omega bracelet screws seized during sizing - advice on next steps / worst case scenario

Hi all,

Looking for some experienced input on an issue with a titanium Omega bracelet.

I recently purchased a titanium Omega-2231.50 (posted the pic just becasue😀 reference-sourced from Greece, full set and in excellent condition. I brought it to a local independent watchmaker to remove a couple of links for sizing. I've worn the 2254.50 almost daily for 15 years so very familiar with this era seamaster.

He was unable to remove a couple of the bracelet screws. One screw came out without issue, but the second would not fully break free despite extended effort (approx. 30–45 minutes). He was being cautious not to damage the bracelet, so he stopped short of applying excessive force.

At that point, I told him I’m okay sacrificing spare links if necessary as long as the rest of the bracelet and watch are not at risk. He attempted again and apparently got it to slightly move, but would not break free. His current plan is to let it soak for a few days and retry later.

His view is that it should come out eventually, but if not, the fallback would be sending it to Omega, and in a worst-case scenario potentially replacing the bracelet.

This is my first titanium watch (previously only stainless), so I didn’t anticipate this type of issue. I’m trying to understand:

• How common is seized titanium bracelet hardware on older Omega pieces?
• Is prolonged soaking a reasonable approach?
• If Omega gets involved, do they typically salvage bracelets in cases like this, or push replacement?
• Any best practices I should be aware of before further attempts are made?

Appreciate any insight from those who’ve dealt with similar situations. Hoping it resolves cleanly, but I’m trying to understand realistic worst-case outcomes as well.

I was unaware they had screws. Both of mine (one titanium, one steel) from this era have pins and tubes.

1. Not common.
2. Soaking will not do anything.
3. They'll probably replace it. You could just replace the two affected links I they're part of the removable section.
4. Just drill it out.

I have the same one and mine also has pins. I do not believe any came out with screws but I might be wrong. Could you post pics of the side of the bracelet?

Thank you so much for the quick reply. Embarrassed to admit - but was wrong about the screws, it is indeed pins. Either way, problem solved as the jeweler just called and was able to remove them. Now I can enjoy the watch after a slight scare on day one of ownership. Take care

Really appreciate the quick reply - my mistake and problem solved. I should’ve been more patient and not panicked immediately😀 looking forward to enjoying the watch.