One of the easiest ways to make your watch feel brand new is by changing the strap. It’s something many watch owners don’t even think about, but switching out your strap can completely transform the look and feel of your timepiece. For instance, a sporty watch can become a sleek dress watch just by changing the strap—and best of all, the tools required are simple and affordable.
In this post, I’ll guide you through selecting straps, the tools you'll need, and how to change between straps and metal bracelets.
Measuring Your Strap
When it comes to watch straps, you’ll need to focus on two measurements:
- The end of the strap that interacts with the watch case.
- The end of the strap that connects to the buckle.
These measurements are important, especially if you plan to keep the original buckle and want to pair it with an aftermarket strap. A quick way to get precise measurements is by using calipers or a strap measuring tool. You can measure the space between the lugs on your watch case to determine the right strap size. For example, if the case measures 20mm, you'll need a 20mm strap.
If you're looking to reuse your existing buckle, measure the inside of the buckle. For instance, if your buckle measures 18mm, you’ll need a strap with a 20mm width at the lugs and an 18mm width at the buckle.
Choosing and Changing Spring Bars
Once you've got your measurements, you'll need to consider the spring bars, which connect the strap to the case. If your watch lugs don’t have holes, make sure to use flanged spring bars to ensure easy removal with a spring bar tool.
When you’re switching from a metal bracelet to a leather or NATO strap, you may notice a difference in spring bar diameters. Bracelets often require slightly thicker spring bars, so ensure you're using the correct size to keep your watch secure.
I always recommend using stainless steel spring bars of high quality, as they prevent your watch from falling off due to a failed bar.
The Process of Changing Straps
To change a strap, start by using your spring bar tool to depress the spring bar and release the strap. Once it's out, you can replace it with a new strap by inserting the spring bars back into the lugs. When you hear a click, give it a gentle tug to ensure it's securely fastened.
Changing to a NATO strap is slightly different because the strap is one continuous piece. Simply unthread the strap from the watch and re-thread the new one. One advantage of NATO straps is their design: even if one spring bar fails, your watch will stay on your wrist.
For metal bracelets, removal can be trickier. You’ll often need to remove the clasp first, exposing the spring bars for easier removal. If you change bracelets frequently, a specialized tool can make this process smoother.
Why Strap Changes Are a Game Changer
One of the great things about owning a quality watch is its longevity. But even a timepiece built to last a lifetime sometimes needs a refresh. Swapping straps is one of the easiest ways to make your watch feel new without altering the original design. Plus, it allows you to customize your watch to better suit your style or the occasion.
Whether you're going from a rugged canvas strap to a polished leather one or switching out a bracelet for a more casual option, the possibilities are endless. Watch straps are made to be worn, and over time, they’ll show signs of use. When that happens, it’s the perfect opportunity to experiment with new designs, materials, and colors that reflect your personality.
So next time you're itching for something new, remember that you don’t need a new watch—just a new strap.