The Breitling Watch Source Forums

I just ordered a new Galactic 41 with a black leather band (clasp not buckle). I've read here that some people will get additional bands and switch them out themselves, which sounds very appealing to me. I have also seen the spring bar tool here that many recommend. So, here is my question.....I have never removed a spring bar and changed a watch band in my entire life. Is it pretty easy and self explanatory (slip tool in, compress spring bar, and remove), or is it tricky and requires some practice/expertise? Of course, my AD suggested it is something best left to them, but it doesn't really sound all that complicated to me. Thoughts?

Thanks!

One example:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhsVGYlJ8QA

Thanks. That doesn't look too tricky at all. Do the springbars last the life of the watch, or do they eventually wear out and need to be replaced?

The spring bars will eventually wear out, but not going to be for a while unless you are chanign the strap daily.

Thanks. I assume my AD can get them for me for a (hopefully) nominal cost. I think I will order a spring bar tool and give it a try.

I decided to try the FB-504, after reading a bunch of posts online about it and the Bergeon 6111 & 6767-F. I thought it should work well on bracelets and straps.

Which one are you considering?

It seems like most people here recommend the Bergeon 6767-F, but since I have no idea what I am doing I am certainly open to suggestions.

I use a jewelers screwdriver set i picked up at the hardware store. I use the smallest flathead it comes with. I swap my bands out every couple months, so I've gotten pretty good at it.

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Rob
Breitling SO Steelfish, silver
Breitling SO Abyss, silver
Rolex Submariner, no date

I already have one of those. Is the tool designed for the task easier to use, or is this all pretty simple?

I will never understand why people don't use a proper tool like the 6767F. Screwdrivers can easily slip and scratch the watch up and the right tool for the job costs about $15. The vast majority of people on here will tell you that the 6767F is their tool fo choice. I have a pretty complete set of watchmaker tools and still use that 100% of the time.

That sounds good enough for me. I see that tool on line, but for closer to $25. Any good place to pick it up for less? Do you use the flat end or forked end?

I use www.watchtool.co.uk but dunno if that'll be cheaper for you stateside.

And it's best to use the forked end.

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Driver8

Site Moderator

That's where I order from.

Well, the FB-504 arrove today. I tried both ends, and so far I like the flat fork with a strap.

I still don't see what the appeal of the 6767-F is, since with the FB-504/6111 you get the flat fork, plus the tips that the 6767-F has.

EDIT: I like the flat fork for removal, and the thin fork for installation, of spring bars.

Well it's each to their own, I guess and it's a case whatever works for the individual. I know people who use the edge of a knife to change straps, and the end of a small screwdriver to change bracelets : it's not the recommended way but it works for them.

The Bergeon 6767F is probably the most widely used, but it's not for everyone.

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Driver8

Site Moderator