Submariner Watch Tools Which one???

[newsboy]

Hi all
what tool do i need to put the strap back on a submariner
mine is the type with the pin holes in the case.
it seems easy to remove the strap to clean but to put in back on is a night mare
anyone help!!!!!!!!

[rolexsubdate]

By strap, I think you mean the bracelet, right?

Well the hardest part is alignment, meaning getting the bracelet's one end trapped between the lugs ... this will cause the end to be at an angle ... toolwise, something very flat and thin would do, like the end of a screwdriver for eyeglasses. I have even done it with the end of the ball point pen.

The best way to do it is to flip the watch over so you see the underside.Next, you put the pin in and bring the bracelet along with the pin towards the lugs. Trap one end between the lugs ... bracelet 's end will now be at an angle ...while making sure the trapped end stays fixed, force the free end of the pin between the lugs.

It is a delicate game of forefingers and thumbs. with one hand you are pulling on the bracelet's end with constant tension and the other hand has the tool that is pressing down on the pin at the same time...as soon as the depressed pin gets to the inside of the lugs, you feel it ...and then repeat for the other end of the bracelet ....then when you hear those two mighty CLICK CLICK sounds ... it makes you say HELL YES!!!

[newsboy]

don't like using the screwdriver technique just for the scratching factor involved

[wantonebad]

the best tool for the job is a springbar tool, you can get one on ebay for about $8, and working with it takes a little while to master, I recommened practicing on a seiko or another not so expensive watch so that whatever scrathces you make won't be so costly, the amature watchmakers section of this forum has some good step by steps and removing/replacing a bracelet is on there I think

[Ed Rooney]

Toothpick.

Masking tape.

[rolexsubdate]

Originally Posted by newsboy

don't like using the screwdriver technique just for the scratching factor involved

use masking tape around the lug area .. cheap and easy!

[newsboy]

isn't the spring bar tool for just removing the braclet and not for putting it back on

[wantonebad]

Originally Posted by newsboy

isn't the spring bar tool for just removing the braclet and not for putting it back on

Nope,
its for both, now that I have it down take me less than 30 seconds to remove or replace a bracelet

[newsboy]

i just dont see how to put it back together with a spring bar tool!!!!!!!!!!!!11

[padi56]

Originally Posted by Ed Rooney

Toothpick.

Masking tape.

Have to agree IMHO the lug hole cases are the best when it comes to changing bracelets or straps

[Tools]

.........

........... Popsickle Stick...........

[wantonebad]

Originally Posted by newsboy

i just dont see how to put it back together with a spring bar tool!!!!!!!!!!!!11

from underneath you angle one end of the end link with the springbar against the inside of the lug, and you use the springbar tool to compress the other end of the springbar and then you press it into place.

[Tools]

Originally Posted by newsboy

i just dont see how to put it back together with a spring bar tool!!!!!!!!!!!!11

It is a little tricky because of the shape of the "lug holes" spring bars..

Here are the three types of spring bars..


The one on the left, without shoulders, is the one you should be using.

You usually need to lay the bracelet, with springbar inserted, against the back of the case.... using the flat edge of a popsicle stick/springbar tool/toothpick; you then push the springbar to one side so the bracelet slips down and "captures" that end of the springbar... You then move to the other side and press that end of the springbar all the way inside the endlink so the entire piece slides between the lugs........... Then you move it around a bit until it snaps into place........

........piece of cake..........

[Alcan]

Originally Posted by Tools

......Here are the three types of spring bars.....

Great photo, Larry!