Community Stories

Changing straps...without scratching the backs of those lugs?

kennethwashere
Posts
43
Likes
382
I'm a lover of changing straps pretty frequently - but the process of doing so always makes me nervous because I don't have the -steadiest- hands when it comes to changing those straps out.

I've already managed to get quite a few marks on the lugs of my Speedy, and while I know it's inevitable to happen, I wanted to see if you kind folks had any tips on how to decrease the likelihood of scratching lugs when it comes to changing out those straps.

Of course, going the NATO route would solve a lot of problems...but I love the look of leather!
Does anyone also use those quick-release straps (I've seen some from Barton, etc)?

And while we're at it...don't hesitate to post some pics of your favorite straps below!

I only have the original bracelet and a leather rally strap as of now for my Speedmaster, but may pick this one up next:
il_1588xN.1401986470_o7xj.jpg
 
ext1
Posts
1,134
Likes
1,690
Some people put tape on the lugs before they do it, it seems to be a good method. I don't, though. Probably there will be some scratches on the lug not from changing straps anyway!
 
Dan S
Posts
24,506
Likes
54,468
No substitute for a good tool, a magnifying visor, and above all ... practice, practice, practice.
 
Evitzee
Posts
7,710
Likes
14,252
Put some tape on the lugs, have good strong lighting and a good springbar tool, no cheapie. Having a steady hand, which is often a function of confidence, helps greatly. I've used quick release straps on other watches and they work.
 
marco
Posts
1,304
Likes
3,090
ALLWAYS work from the back of the watch. If you slip the scratch will not be visisble ( hopefully). Stay away from gold until you are confident of doing the job.
 
The Father
Posts
2,808
Likes
14,872
Dan S Dan S
No substitute for a good tool, a magnifying visor, and above all ... practice, practice, practice.

Ohhh the magnifier is the key
upload_2019-9-18_18-32-57.jpeg


Got one of these cheap magnifiers to start. So far so good
Edited:
 
Mad Dog
Posts
6,585
Likes
78,312
Dan S Dan S
No substitute for a good tool, a magnifying visor, and above all ... practice, practice, practice.
Ditto. 👍

In addition...utilize extremely good light, do not rush* the job and utilize spring bars that are fresh...not old, gummed up, corroded spring bars that can seize and make removal/installation difficult.

*NOTE: Chugging boat loads of Dunkin’ coffee prior to attempting spring bar removal/installation is NOT conducive regarding not rushing the job. Don’t ask me how I know this. 😁
 
Dan S
Posts
24,506
Likes
54,468
Mad Dog Mad Dog
Ditto. 👍

In addition...utilize extremely good light, do not rush* the job and utilize spring bars that are fresh...not old, gummed up, corroded spring bars that can seize and make removal/installation difficult.

*NOTE: Chugging boat loads of Dunkin’ coffee prior to attempting spring bar removal/installation is NOT conducive regarding not rushing the job. Don’t ask me how I know this. 😁

Next time you have overdosed on caffeine prior to performing a task requiring steady hands, I recommend a shot of whiskey. Assuming you are off-duty of course. This is from first-hand experience. 😀
 
nordwulf
Posts
72
Likes
281
I never scratch any lugs using my Bergeon spring bar tool. Just push the spring bar in far enough and slowly move out.

Quick-release straps (and bracelets) are awesome but you still have to be careful.
Edited:
 
The Father
Posts
2,808
Likes
14,872
Have couple sites with some slick straps where the quick release is an option. I will “spring” for the extra $11 to get it as an option.
Anyone lost or damaged a watch due to a quick release ? I assume it is rare.
 
DaveK
Posts
5,082
Likes
15,706
The Father The Father
Anyone lost or damaged a watch due to a quick release ? I assume it is rare.
I don’t own any quick release, but that’s because my watchmaker said they are prone to fail. I like the idea of them quite a bit though.
 
apsm100
Posts
1,206
Likes
5,036
I wouldn't do quick release either due to longevity issues (you can just pull the quick release peg thing straight out). Second on the Bergeon tool. I slowly depress the spring bar and bring it clear of the lugs and release it slowly. Works pretty well but it does take practice.
 
pIoNeErOfThEnILe
Posts
1,099
Likes
1,083
those damn pesky spring bars. its almost like u need a two hundred dolla bergeron tool to avoid the headaches

i have the cheap china version, which usually worx. but it's cheap thin metal and u still have to fight it most times u use it..but hey, its only a couple of dolla's
 
loniscup
Posts
337
Likes
451
I use one that was sent to me as a gift with a strap purchase. I guess it's not a Bergeon right? 🙄
Practice is fundamental imo
 
3 More Posts...
Sign up or log in to reply...

Similar threads

Spartcom5

How to open this without scratching the case? Vintage 40s bumper Omega

Spartcom5 Vintage Omega Watches Help, Discussion and Advice
Horologist
Horologist
Posts
8
Views
1K
cvalue13

Tips On Avoiding Disasters When Changing Straps/Bracelets

cvalue13 Open Discussion
Foo2rama
Foo2rama
Posts
12
Views
4K