Introduction
Changing a watch strap is a great way to refresh or personalise your watch, especially if you wear one every day. Despite this, some people refrain from doing so because they worry that changing a watch strap is difficult, or that they may damage the watch face.
But is changing a watch strap actually easy? The short answer is yes. If you have the right tools for the strap in hand, then there is no reason why you can't replace your watch strap yourself. However, there may be instances where you would rather a professional do it for you instead.
We are going to look at this and more and walk you through how to do it in this article.
Why You Might Want to Change a Watch Strap
Watches are very personal accessories, and there are lots of reasons why you may want to change your strap, including:
Personalisation
Switching watch straps means you can match your watch with different outfits for different occasions or events, for example opting for a smart leather watch strap for formal events, or a nylon strap for sporting or outdoor activities.
Replacing a Worn Strap
Straps can wear and replacing a strap is much cheaper than replacing the entire watch. Alternating straps also extends the longevity of the strap, as they are not being worn for extended periods of time.
Improving Comfort
If you have a strap that is irritating your skin, changing it for a different material will improve this.
Tools Needed for Changing a Watch Strap
You Will Need:
- Spring bar tool: this has a forked end for compressing the spring bars.
- Microfiber cloth: to protect the watch face and case from scratches.
- Tweezers (optional): for better grip on the spring bars.
Some straps, like quick-release or NATO watch straps don’t require tools. They have built-in pins or can be installed with the pins already in place allowing you to easily release the straps without tools.
Steps to Change a Watch Strap
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
- Choose a clean and flat surface where you can see what you are doing.
- Lay down a soft cloth to prevent scratches to the watch.
Step 2: Remove the Existing Strap
Using a spring bar tool
- Insert the forked end of the tool in between the watch lug and the strap.
- Compress the spring bar gently to release it.
- Remove the strap carefully.
You can purchase a Spring Bar Tool directly here from The Thrifty Gentleman.
Quick-release strap
- Pull the built-in lever on the strap to detach it.
Step 3: Attach the New Strap
- Put the spring bars into the holes of the new strap.
- Place one end of the spring bar into the watch lug.
- Use the spring bar tool to compress the other end whilst you slide it into place.
- Ensure the spring bars are securely fastened by tugging on the strap and checking it doesn’t move.
Step 4: Final Checks
- Look over the watch to ensure the strap is attached properly and aligned correctly.
- Put it on your wrist to check comfort and fit.
You can find a more in-depth guide to changing your watch strap, including images, to help with the process in our article - The Simple Guide to Changing Your Watch Strap in 4 Easy Steps.
Common Challenges When Changing a Watch Strap
There can be some challenges you face when changing a watch strap, but knowing what they are can help you be prepared for them.
Slippery Spring Bars
Spring bars are small and can be hard to handle. Using tweezers makes this easier, especially for beginners.
Risk of Scratches
Improper use of the tools can lead to scratches on the watch case, which is why protecting it with tape or a soft case is best when you are new to the process.
Misaligned Strap
Aligning the watch improperly can cause it to be uncomfortable, so make sure you always double check before wearing it.
Tips to Make Changing Straps Easier
- Practicing on an old watch can help you gain confidence without worry of scratching.
- Invest in a quick release strap as they are more beginner-friendly.
- Have spare spring bars just in case something breaks when you do it.
When to Seek Professional Help
For expensive watches, using a watch repair or jeweler service may be better if you are concerned about damage to the watch. Likewise if you give it a go and find parts of the strap are too tight to remove.
Benefits of Learning to Change Straps Yourself
- Cost effective: saving on bills from a professional service.
- Convenience: you can do it as and when you please.
- Skill-building: you gain knowledge about your watch and how it works.
Conclusion
Changing a watch strap can be easy if you follow the process and have the right tools and patience to learn. It is a skill that will benefit you for all the time you are a watch wearer, and can also save you some money too.
If you are looking for a new strap, check out The Thrifty Gentlemen’s range of straps, tools and guides to change your strap successfully.