How to Change a Watch Strap: The Guide

Changing your watch strap is a simple yet effective way to refresh your timepiece's look or replace a worn-out band. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can swap straps with confidence and care. While it might seem daunting at first, with the right tools and knowledge, you'll be switching straps like a pro in no time. 

Things You'll Need

Before you begin, gather these essentials:

1. Spring bar tool: This specialised instrument helps remove and reattach the spring bars that hold the strap in place. We recommend the Bergeon 6767.
2. Tweezers: Useful for manipulating small parts and spring bars.
3. Soft microfibre cloth: Protects your watch face during the process and keeps it clean.
4. Masking tape: To protect the watch case from accidental scratches.
5. Microfibre cloth: To protect the watch head and clean between the lugs.
6. A screwdriver: only if your watch has screwed spring bars (this is fairly unusual).

Types of Watch Straps

Watch straps come in various materials, each with unique characteristics:

• Leather: Classic and versatile, suitable for dress and casual watches.
• Metal: Durable and water-resistant, often found on sports and dive watches.
• Rubber: Ideal for active lifestyles and water activities.
• NATO: A fabric strap that threads under the watch case, offering extra security.

Quick-Release Straps

Many modern watches and aftermarket straps feature quick-release spring bars. These make strap changes even easier and don't require special tools.

NATO Straps

NATO straps are long, single-piece straps that thread under the watch case. Originally designed for military use, they're now popular for their casual look and added security.

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to change your watch strap:

Prepare your workspace - Choose a well-lit area and lay out your soft cloth to prevent scratches.

Identify the strap type and attachment - Look for spring bars or screws connecting the strap to the watch case.

Identify the type of spring bar - Standard spring bars require a spring bar tool for removal. Quick-release spring bars have a small lever or pin that can be manipulated by hand.

Apply masking tape - Before removing the old strap, it is a good idea to place strips of masking tape over the back side of the watch lugs. This may help to protect the watch case against scratches if your spring bar tool slips during the process.

Remove the old strap - For standard spring bars: Use the forked end of your spring bar tool to compress the spring and slide it out. There’s a knack to this and some straps will be easier to remove than others. You may need to dig around a bit if you have a thick leather strap that is tight to the lugs.

• For quick-release spring bars: Locate the small lever on the underside of the strap, near the connection point. Gently pull this lever towards the centre of the strap. The spring bar will retract, allowing you to detach the strap from the watch case.
• For screwed bars: Use an appropriate screwdriver to remove the screws.

Clean the watch case - Gently wipe the area where the old strap was attached with your microfibre cloth to remove any dirt or debris.

Attach the new strap

For standard spring bars:

1. Insert one end of the spring bar into the lug hole.
2. Use your spring bar tool to compress the other end and guide it into place.
3. Ensure both ends are securely fitted before moving to the other side of For quick-release spring bars:
4. Align the strap with the lugs, ensuring the quick-release lever is on the underside.
5. Gently push the strap into place. You should hear a small click as the spring bar engages.
6. Tug gently on the strap to ensure it's secure.

Remove the masking tape: Once the new strap is securely attached, carefully peel off the masking tape.

Fitting a NATO Strap

NATO straps require a different approach as they don't use spring bars attached to the strap itself. Here's how to fit one:

1. Remove the existing strap - Follow the earlier instructions to remove your current strap, leaving the spring bars in place on the watch.

2. Thread the NATO strap - Start at the 12 o'clock position of the watch. Thread the long end of the strap under the spring bar, from top to bottom.

 

3. Adjust the strap - Pull the strap through until the watch case is centred on the strap. The metal or fabric loops on the strap should be on the 6 o'clock side of the watch case.

4. Secure the strap - Take the long end of the strap and thread it down through the metal loops. Pull it back up and thread it through the second loop (if present).

5. Tuck in the excess - Most NATO straps are intentionally long. Tuck the excess strap back through the loops for a neat appearance.

Et voila!

Tips for Different Watch Types

Luxury watches - Exercise extra caution and consider using professional services if you're unsure.

Sports watches - Ensure water resistance isn't compromised during the strap change.

Smartwatches - Be mindful of any sensors or connections on the watch back.

Quick-Release Straps

• Always check that the quick-release lever is fully closed after attaching the strap.
• Be gentle when pulling the quick-release lever to avoid damaging the mechanism.
• Ensure the strap width matches your watch's lug width for a proper fit.

NATO Straps

• Ensure your watch's lug width matches the NATO strap width for a proper fit.
• For watches with larger cases, consider using thicker NATO straps for better proportion.
• Some dive watches may need extra-long NATO straps to fit over a wetsuit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forcing components - If something doesn't fit, stop and reassess rather than applying excessive force.
• Using improper tools - Avoid makeshift tools that might damage your watch.
• Neglecting to clean - Always clean the watch case before attaching a new strap.
• Forgetting protection (never a good thing!) - Always use masking tape to protect your watch case from accidental scratches.
• Forcing quick-release mechanisms - If the strap doesn't easily click into place, double-check alignment rather than forcing it.
• Incorrect NATO strap threading - Ensure the strap goes under the watch case, not just through the spring bars, for proper security. There should be two layers of fabric between your wrist and the watch’s caseback.
• Overtightening: NATO straps should be snug but not overly tight, as this can stress the spring bars.

Maintaining Your New Watch Strap

To keep your new strap in top condition:

• Clean leather straps with a soft, damp cloth and allow them to air dry.
• Wipe metal bracelets with a slightly soapy cloth and dry thoroughly.
• Rinse rubber straps with fresh water after exposure to saltwater or chemicals.

Maintaining Your NATO Strap

NATO straps are typically made of nylon or other durable materials. To keep them in good condition:

• Rinse with fresh water after exposure to saltwater or sweat.
• For thorough cleaning, use mild soap and water, then air dry.
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure to prevent colour fading.

Final Thoughts

Changing a watch strap is a straightforward process that can dramatically alter your timepiece's appearance. Whether you're working with traditional spring bars, convenient quick-release mechanisms, or fitting a secure NATO strap, this guide provides you with the knowledge to confidently swap your watch straps. With practice and proper precautions like using masking tape, you'll gain confidence in swapping straps, allowing you to match your watch to any occasion or outfit. Remember to work carefully, use the right tools, protect your watch case, and enjoy the process of personalising your watch.

FAQs

How often should I change my watch strap? 

This depends on wear and tear, but generally, leather straps may need replacing every 6-12 months with regular use, while metal bracelets can last many years.

Can I change the strap on any watch? 

Most watches allow for strap changes, but some models, particularly certain luxury or uniquely designed watches, may have proprietary strap systems.

Where can I buy quality watch straps? 

Look for reputable watch dealers, both online and in physical stores. Ensure you know your watch's lug width before purchasing to guarantee a proper fit.

Is it necessary to use masking tape when changing the strap? 

While not absolutely necessary, using masking tape is highly recommended. It provides an extra layer of protection for your watch case, preventing potential scratches that could occur if your tool slips during the strap change process.

What are the advantages of quick-release straps? 

Quick-release straps allow for easy strap changes without tools, making it convenient to switch styles frequently. However, they may not be as secure as traditional spring bars for heavy-duty use.

Can I replace standard spring bars with quick-release ones? 

In many cases, yes. However, ensure the quick-release spring bars are the correct size for your watch and are of good quality to maintain the security of your timepiece.

Are NATO straps suitable for all types of watches? 

NATO straps are versatile and can be used with most watches. However, they may not be ideal for very formal occasions or with dress watches. They're particularly popular with sports and dive watches.

Can I use a NATO strap on a watch with integrated lugs? 

Watches with integrated lugs (where the strap connects directly to the case without visible spring bars) are usually not compatible with NATO straps. Always check your watch's lug design before purchasing a NATO strap.

How do I choose the right size NATO strap for my watch? 

Measure the width between your watch lugs in millimetres. This is the size of NATO strap you need. Common sizes are 18mm, 20mm, and 22mm, but other sizes exist.