The Breitling Watch Source Forums

I received my new leather watch straps I will be replacing the steel straps on my super ocean heritage and super avenger.
I can’t figure out how to get them off.
There is literally no gap for the springbar to get into.
Help?

Under side of the bracelet, there should be two notches on each end of the ends. You’ll need a spring bar tool to remove the bracelet.

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Breitling B-1 1999
Breitling Chrono Superocean 2004
Casio G Shock
Citizen Eco Drive AT4000-02E (for gardening)
Seiko 5 SNZG15J1
Hamilton X Wind LE

I have one but it doesn’t fit in.

You'll need a smaller one then! Try a Bergeon 6767F. The F denotes "Fine" and relates to the fork at the end. I've always found the 6767F to be more than adequate for any Breitling bracelet/strap.

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Driver8

Site Moderator

You need something like a Bergeon 6767-F 6767-S. Usually comes as a two ended tool, one end is the spring bar fork the other is a pin pusher. Other cheaper makes are available but I suggest the Bergeon as it will fit.

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Breitling B-1 1999
Breitling Chrono Superocean 2004
Casio G Shock
Citizen Eco Drive AT4000-02E (for gardening)
Seiko 5 SNZG15J1
Hamilton X Wind LE

I’ve never changed a strap.
I assumed it would be a universal size.
The tool comes with the strap I bought.

Hi, you probably need to use a "precision" screwdriver with a very small end and use it inside the 2 notches on the endlinks. The Bergeon is ok when working with straps.
I did several times with the screwdriver and it's also the technique that my watchmaker recommended to use. Here is a video with the bergeon & breitling bracelet https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9MgczVBrVGA.
I'm using a bergeon 3153 for straps and a precision screwdriver.

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Chronomat B04 44 GMT Blackeye Grey
Chronomat B01 44 White Dial/Brushed bezel
Navitimer 01 LE Mercury Dial
Old Navitimer II TwoTone Blue/Yellow Gold
SO 42 LE Orange
Galactic Chrono II 44 Blue dial
Chronomat Evolution Two Tone Black/Yellow Gold

Yes I've also used a very small screwdriver for compressing springbar pins on bracelets and straps before too. It works well enough, but you just have to be very careful as a slip (and then a scratch) is much easier compared to using a proper tool. But you are correct that, with care and a bit of taping up of the lugs, a small screwdriver can work very nicely.

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Driver8

Site Moderator

I emailed the strap company and they said they will send me a tool out with a 1mm tip.

Why anyone would consider using a screwdriver to remove a springier is beyond me. The Bergeon 6767F is specifically designed to deal with springbars. It is like using an adjustable wrench to loosen a nut when you have the right socket and ratchet available. Sure, it may do the job, but you risk damaging what you are working on. I have never seen a watchmaker or sales associate use a screwdriver to remove springbars, to me you are just inviting trouble. Just my 2 cents on the subject.

Yes it's not ideal, but works fine if you know what you're doing. I must be honest but I've done it quite a few times in the past when I didn't have a 6767F, and I never slipped once..., but then I also always tape the lugs first.

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Driver8

Site Moderator