Removing a watch band strap, whether for replacement or cleaning, typically involves detaching the spring bars that hold it in place between the lugs of the watch case.
Understanding Watch Straps and Attachments
Most watch straps are attached to the watch case using small, spring-loaded pins called spring bars. These bars fit into holes (lugs) on the watch case. Different watches may have slightly different lug designs, which can affect the removal process.
Common Methods for Strap Removal
The method used depends largely on the design of your watch lugs and strap:
- Using a Spring Bar Tool: This is the most common method for straps attached with standard spring bars.
- Watches with Drilled Lugs: Some watches feature holes drilled through the lugs from the outside of the case. This simplifies removal.
- Quick-Release Spring Bars: Some modern straps have small levers built into the spring bar itself, allowing for tool-free removal.
Step-by-Step Guide Using a Spring Bar Tool
If your watch does not have drilled lugs or quick-release spring bars, you will likely need a spring bar tool.
- Prepare Your Workspace: Place the watch face down on a soft surface (like a cloth or mat) to avoid scratching it.
- Locate the Spring Bar: The spring bar is located between the strap and the watch case lug.
- Position the Tool: Use the forked end of the spring bar tool. Insert the fork between the strap and the watch lug, hooking it onto the lip of the spring bar.
- Compress and Release: Gently push the tool towards the strap, compressing the spring bar inwards. Once compressed, carefully pull the strap downwards away from the lug to release one end of the spring bar from its hole.
- Remove the Strap: Repeat the process for the other side of the strap and the other lug.
Removing Straps on Watches with Drilled Lugs
As the reference highlights, watches with drilled lugs offer a much simpler method:
- "Some watches have drilled lugs, which makes removing straps a lot easier."
- "For these watches simply insert the rounded pin into the drilled hole making sure it's in properly."
- "Then gently push the tool to release the spring bar."
- "You may have to wiggle the strap a little at the same time."
This method utilizes the pin end (or a specific pin tool) rather than the fork. By inserting the pin into the hole on the outside of the lug, you can push directly onto the end of the spring bar, compressing it and allowing the strap to release easily.
Quick-Release Straps
If your strap has a small lever on the underside near the spring bar, simply pull the lever to compress the spring bar and detach the strap without any tools.
Summary of Methods
| Method | Tool Required? | Lug Type | Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Spring Bar Tool | Yes (Forked end) | Standard Lugs (no external holes) | Compress spring bar from side using tool. |
| Drilled Lugs | Yes (Pin end or specific) | Lugs with external holes | Push pin into hole to compress spring bar end. |
| Quick-Release Spring Bars | No | Standard or Drilled (Strap feature) | Pull integrated lever to compress spring bar. |
Always be gentle when removing watch straps to avoid damaging the watch case or the strap itself.
