Many luxury watches can be modified by replacing their straps. This is an excellent way to refresh your watch’s look and avoid monotony. But how to change a watch strap properly?
Sometimes, besides addressing boredom with the watch’s look, owners also need to replace the strap when the old one is damaged. To learn how to replace a strap, keep reading this article.
Tools Needed to Replace Watch Straps
You will need some specialized tools to safely replace a watch strap. Here are some of the tools required:
1. Spring bar tool
A spring bar tool is the main tool used to remove and install the spring bar that connects the strap to the watch case.
This tool usually has two ends: one shaped like a small fork for pressing the spring bar out of the case hole, and the other end is pointed for adjusting the spring bar’s position.
When used, it’s essential to choose a high-quality spring bar tool with smooth edges to avoid scratching the watch.
Read more: How to Adjust a Metal Watch Strap: Step-by-Step Guide
2. Tweezers
Tweezers are used to adjust or remove links on metal watch straps (bracelets). This small, pointed tool is designed to press the pins that lock the links together.
With tweezers, you can lengthen or shorten the strap as needed. Some tweezers come with an automatic press function, making the process easier without requiring too much effort.
3. Microfiber cloth
A microfiber cloth is necessary for cleaning the case and strap, both before and after replacing the strap. This cloth has a soft texture designed to clean metal or glass surfaces without leaving scratches.
Cleaning the workspace with microfiber also helps ensure no dust, oil, or fingerprints mar the watch’s aesthetics after the replacement process.
4. Magnifying glass
A loupe or magnifying glass is a very useful tool for inspecting small details on the watch, such as the spring bar hole position or the locking mechanism on the strap.
This tool ensures you work with high precision, especially if the watch has complex details or delicate finishing that needs to be preserved. A magnification level of about 3x to 5x is usually sufficient for strap replacement.
Read more: How to Change a Luxury Watch Battery: Step by Step
How to Change a Metal Watch Strap
Replacing a metal watch strap can be done at home with simple tools. The process requires precision to ensure the strap is securely attached and the watch functions optimally. Here’s the complete guide:
1. Prepare tools and workspace
As mentioned earlier, you’ll need tools such as a spring bar tool, tweezers, microfiber cloth, and magnifying glass. Prepare all these tools.
Additionally, set up a workspace for the strap replacement process. Make sure to work on a flat surface to prevent damage to the watch.
2. Remove the old strap
Use the spring bar tool to press the small clamp (spring bar pin) connecting the strap to the watch lug.
Lugs are the small parts on the side of the watch case that connect the case to the strap or bracelet.
While pressing, gently pull the strap to avoid damaging the clamp mechanism. If you’re dealing with push pins on metal links, use a pin pusher to carefully remove them.
3. Measure and adjust the new strap
Before attaching the new strap, measure the appropriate length for your wrist. Ensure the new strap has balanced lengths on both sides of the watch for a symmetrical look.
If using a new metal strap that is too long, remove some links using a specialized link removal tool. Ensure the number of links removed is the same on both sides to maintain balance and aesthetics.
4. Attach the new strap
Insert the spring bar pin into the ends of the new strap, then position the pin ends into the lug holes. Use the spring bar tool to press the clamp until the pin locks into place. Ensure the strap is securely attached and not loose by gently pulling it.
Double-check all parts to ensure the strap is firmly in place. If the strap feels loose or uncomfortable, repeat the attachment process.
Read more: From Rubber to Nylon, Here Are the 12 Types of Watch Straps
How to Change a Leather Watch Strap
What if your watch uses a leather strap? Here’s a guide to replacing a leather watch strap:
1. Prepare tools and workspace
The first step is similar to replacing a metal strap. Tools needed include a spring bar tool for removing and attaching the spring bar, and a soft cloth to protect the watch surface.
Place the watch on a clean, flat surface and use a soft cloth to prevent scratches on the watch case.
2. Remove the old strap
Use the pointed end of the spring bar tool to press the spring bar (a small spring-loaded rod) that locks the strap to the watch lug.
While pressing, gently pull the strap away from the lug. Do this carefully to avoid damaging the spring bar or watch case. Keep the old spring bar if it’s still in good condition, or replace it with a new one.
3. Choose and adjust the new strap
Leather straps typically come in various lengths and designs. Before attaching, ensure the new strap width matches the lug size.
Standard sizes are usually measured in millimeters, such as 18 mm or 20 mm. Then, check the strap’s length to ensure it fits your wrist comfortably.
4. Attach the new strap
To attach the new leather strap, first insert the spring bar into the loop or small hole at the strap’s end. Then, position one end of the spring bar into the small hole in the watch lug.
Using the spring bar tool, press the other side of the spring bar to shorten it so it can fit into the opposite lug hole.
Once the leather strap is attached, double-check all parts to ensure proper installation. Gently pull the strap in various directions to ensure the spring bar doesn’t move or come loose from the lug.
Also, check whether the strap is aligned on both sides of the watch for an aesthetic appearance when worn.
These are some steps you can try to replace a watch strap. This process requires high precision to maintain the watch’s condition.
If you’re not confident in replacing the strap yourself, you can seek help from experts. You can also bring your watch to the Luxehouze LuxeCare watch service.
Luxehouze offers various watch services. All services at Luxehouze are performed by a team of experts trained according to Swiss watchmaking standards. Moreover, Luxehouze uses Swiss-grade standard tools to provide optimal service.
Interestingly, services at Luxehouze don’t take long, requiring only about 3–7 weeks for a complete service. So, don’t hesitate to bring your watch for servicing at Luxehouze!
