Hi I'm wondering if this is any good? I've never changed a strap before and my new PO came with both rubber and bracelet.
Yes, it's good. I use a similar tool with Bergeon tips. The fact that it has both the fine end and the standard end covers the enthusiast's strap changing needs. Go easy if it's your first time changing a strap and maybe watch a video.
That'll work. Definitely do as @ZIELSZIEK said, and even better, practice on a watch that you don't care about as much...
Check out https://omegaforums.net/threads/changing-strap.38023/ and https://omegaforums.net/threads/speedy-watch-strap-removal-and-tool-advice-please.34130/
Try one of these. Plastic coated https://www.watchobsession.co.uk/collections/view-all-accessories/products/hirsch-spring-bar-tool
I was tossing up between the Bergeon 6767 or 6111 and ended up going for the latter. Felt that I was less likely to scratch the lugs when changing leather straps thanks to the wide, flat fork.
Just ordered the 7767f after watching a YouTube video. He recommends it over the 6767f, he says it's easier to control. Will give it a go when it arrives. It was only £14 Thanks for the advice
Is it a sin to switch over to the quick change straps with the pins built in? I have them on my smart watch and they are handy.
I tried that once, out of curiosity. I ended up scratching the lug and with a springbar flying off into oblivion. There is also the risk of bending the springbar, if they are of smaller diameter. A bit of experience combined with a good strap tool will guarantee a flawless strap/bracelet change, therefore I cannot recommend this method. Plus, given the price of a PO it would be a shame to do that.
Bergeon is supposed to be top quality. Most of the watch makers use them. I know Horotec also make some great quality watch tools
VOH, AF, Horotec etc. There are many toolmakers producing similar items, sometimes of better quality. Some Bergeon tools are average and there are better options, often exactly the same tool, but with a different brand.
Well, if you ask actual watchmakers who rely on these tools daily, you may get a different opinion. Bergeon was certainly the gold standard in the past, but they often use that reputation to sell some rather poor tools these days. That reputation sucks in a lot of people who are not in the industry, who do indeed believe they make the best of everything. I have plenty of Bergeon tools, but for some things their products are inferior to other brands. One thing to keep in mind is that Bergeon is largely a distributor, rather than a manufacturer, so often things that are branded Bergeon are not actually made by them. Cheers, Al
And in the interests of sensible economy, you'll notice I didn't even mention Petit Pierre. Certainly a contender for the "Gold" standard.
True, but I don't know a single watchmaker who uses their tools. These seem to be more for show that actual use!