Are you tired of wearing your watch with the same bracelet every day? Do you want to change your style without having to go to a jeweler or watchmaker every time? Over time, the strap of your watch may wear out, tear or simply not be to your liking anymore. Knowing how to change your watch band yourself is a useful and practical skill that will allow you to save money while offering you the possibility to personalize your watch according to your preferences
In this article, we will guide you through the different steps to easily change the strap of your watch, providing you with the necessary tools and tips to carry out this operation.
This type of strap is often the most common and traditional. Leather straps are durable, comfortable to wear and give your watch a stylish look. Leather straps are available in a wide variety of colors, textures and finishes to suit all tastes and budgets.
Metal bracelets are often used for sports watches. Stainless steel, gold or titanium bracelets are durable and hard-wearing, while mesh bracelets offer a more sophisticated and elegant look.
Rubber bands are a durable and long-lasting option for sports watches and outdoor activities. They are easy to clean and maintain, and often come with safety buckles for added security.
Fabric straps are a trendy choice for casual or military style watches. Canvas, nylon or woven leather straps are lightweight, comfortable to wear and offer a wide variety of colors and patterns.
When you want to change your watch band, it is important to have a few good tools to facilitate the operation. If we were to mention only one, it would be the tool to remove the spring bars, or pumps (bars that hold your bracelet to the case of your watch).
Sometimes this tool is offered with the purchase of a bracelet, but it is often of poor quality. Changing a bracelet is an operation that you may have to repeat quite often, so we recommend you to avoid those at 2-3€, and to go for quality tools made in Switzerland. There are several references for this type of tool, ranging from a few euros to several hundred:
Bergeon 6767 : about 20,00 €.
Bergeon 3153 : environ 30,00 €
Bergeon 7825 : environ 150,00 €
Bergeon 6825 : environ 200,00 €
If you have a steel bracelet, and you want to make a size adjustment by adding, or removing links, we recommend that you use a pin extractor or pin pusher:
Bergeon 7230 : about 20,00 €.
Potence Horotec : environ 180,00 €
You should not neglect the quality of the tools you use, it would be a shame to damage, scratch or break a watch costing several hundred, even thousands of euros, because of a cheap tool that would break or slip on your timepiece.
When changing the strap of your watch, the first important step is to put it on top of a table to avoid dropping your watch, and thus be able to carry out the manipulation more serenely.
Put your watch upside down on a small pad or cloth, take your pump remover and go look for the pump on the inner horn to dislodge it. While trying to go down the pump, the latter should withdraw from the case, and thus, allow the removal of the bracelet. You will have to repeat this maneuver on the other side of the case, to remove the other part of the bracelet.
So you've successfully removed your old bracelet, now you need to reassemble the new one. To do this, add the pumps in your new bracelet, insert one side of the bracelet at the horn, and use your pump-plugger tool to make the spring of the pump play, and thus make it enter the other horn. Repeat with the other side of your bracelet.
Once the two sides are attached, check that the bracelet is well fixed, always above a table, by moving it in all directions, in order to avoid once on the wrist that it comes off, because not well fixed.
How to buy a watch?
Research brands, styles and prices, choose a model within your budget and taste. Choose a trusted retailer, either online or in-store. Verify the authenticity and quality of the watch, by examining certificates and calling in a watch expert (never rely on photos). Take the time to consider all aspects of the watch, such as size, material, movement and complications. It is important to note that purchasing a luxury watch can be a significant investment, so it is essential to do thorough research to make an informed decision.
How to set a watch?
The setting of a watch may vary depending on its type and movement. Generally, the crown on the right side of the watch is pulled out to set the time and date. Some watches may have other complications, such as a chronograph function or a time zone complication. It is important to note that some watches may require more complex adjustments, such as synchronization with a time signal or movement adjustment. If you're not sure how to set your watch, it's a good idea to consult its user manual or seek the help of a watch professional.
What are the most beautiful watchmaking houses?
There are many watchmaking houses known for their exceptional craftsmanship, quality and design. Here are some of the finest watchmakers: Patek Philippe, this Swiss watchmaker is known for its high quality watches and expertise in watch complications. Rolex, known for its precise, reliable and durable watches, as well as its classic and elegant design. Audemars Piguet, for its high-quality luxury watches and innovative, cutting-edge design. Vacheron Constantin, founded in 1755, one of the world's oldest houses, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and elegant design. These houses are all examples of Swiss watchmaking excellence and are considered the finest in the world for their exceptional quality, craftsmanship and design.
Who is Watch Interest?
Watch Interest is a watch media founded in 2021 with a focus on quality in the service of watch passion. Our promise is to provide engaging and informative content that serves the needs of both the discerning watch enthusiast and the seasoned collector: a one-stop destination for information on watches, houses and market news.
About the author
Mathieu CeliPassionate about timepieces, and everything that revolves around them for many years, my ambition is to share my watchmaking adventure, and help you to enlighten yourself on this world that seems so inaccessible, and yet, is not. Every watchmaking story is initiated by encounters, and continues with an endless curiosity, a real addiction to the very embodiment of time.
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