Best Was to Reinstall Bracelet With 592b End Links

[Vento]

I recently picked up a Sea Dweller 16600 with 592b end links. I’m planning to have the bracelet rebuilt by Rolliworks as it has a lot of stretch, but I’m a little hesitant to remove the bracelet given that there does not seem to be any easy way to access to the spring bars.

I am curious if anyone has tips for reinstalling a bracelet with these end links. Obviously, there isn’t much of an issue with removal given the drilled lugs.

[tsekh]

There is an obvious and easy way to access the spring bars on this watch--the lug holes on the side.

[ltmgeller]

Lug holes with a toothpick

[Vento]

Originally Posted by tsekh

There is an obvious and easy way to access the spring bars on this watch--the lug holes on the side.

Thanks, obviously no issue getting them off via the drilled lugs—I’m talking about putting the bracelet back on.

[Pepperjack]

These can be tricky to install without marring the lugs. Rolex makes a springbar tweezer that works well for these endlinks - the blue-handled tweezers in the photo below. These work similar to the grey-handled ones, but the idea is that the springbar can be be compressed above the lugs and travel to their resting place by sliding the endlink down the faces of the springbar tool's tips. Perhaps you can locate a similar pair online. I might also recommend using tape to protect the lugs during install.

[racerx]

Originally Posted by Pepperjack

These can be tricky to install without marring the lugs. Rolex makes a springbar tweezer that works well for these endlinks - the blue-handled tweezers in the photo below. These work similar to the grey-handled ones, but the idea is that the springbar can be be compressed above the lugs and travel to their resting place by sliding the endlink down the faces of the springbar tool's tips. Perhaps you can locate a similar pair online. I might also recommend using tape to protect the lugs during install.

Great advise and what an awesome tool kit too!!

[Pepperjack]

Originally Posted by racerx

Great advise and what an awesome tool kit too!!

It's a great tool, however, I have been unable to locate a comparable one for OP. The reference for the tool I'm referring to is 3202 if that helps at all.

[racerx]

3202’s never seem to available and when they are they’re quite expensive. I use a Bergeon version.


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[inadeje]

I use two tiny squares of adhesive on the underside of the lugs and a bergeon standard straight springbar tool. Rest the end/side of the tool on the tape while compressing the springbar while gently lowering the bracelet into position. I haven’t ever damaged a lug in over 30 years. In fact, even with the under-end-link access I still use this method regardless of other accessibility options.