How many very nice watches do you see with damaged case backs and lugs ?
If we havent got the correct tools or know how we shouldent try to remove the case back or change a strap/bracelet.
Personally I really dislike this kind of "damage" on a watch even if we don't see it the majority of the time.
There are guys on here who clearly use a hammer and a chisel to change a strap. I have even sold and bought back the same watch and it has come back with the usual collection of lug scratches.
If Paul reads this, what's the best way to remove these scratches on a polished surface on the underside of the lugs.
My watches belong to me! I will change straps whenever I want to. I know how to protect the lugs - it is not rocket science (I find electrical tape works best).
Lug backs...I have to say even with the right tools and precautionary tape some of the best designed and manufactured watches they don't exactly make it an easy task. I've had watches I'm too afraid to remove the bracelet on for fear of putting a mark on the lugs.
But actually I don't let it bug me if somebody before me has, because it's not easy and you don't see them when you are wearing them.
Case backs I'm a little more cranky about... anybody removing one should be qualified to do so and/or have the right tools and know how to use it
Only until they appear on SCOriginally Posted by MartynJC (UK)
I have no problem with strap changes - even without tape. I use a bergeon spring bar tool, a loupe and take my time
Bracelets are another matter however - I find them very fiddly especially with solid end links. Even tape wont prevent all marks
I am lucky enough to have the acumen to change straps etc without damage.
The answer to the question posed by the OP is, I suppose, because some people just don’t take care. But that’s fine: as Martyn says, the watch belongs to the individual, and he can do what he damn well pleases with it!
Unless someone is messing up my watch, I can’t find myself getting too exercised about it.
Because a lot of people are cack-handed. You only have to look at the hash they make of cleaning their teeth
It's not just clumsy owners that do this, I've had straps fitted by the jewellers 'upstairs watch man' and on collecting brand new watches have had scratches on the lugs...
Only one I've ever marked was down to a Rolex 'specialist' sending me off with a Rubber B that was an impossibe task for a GV Milgauss. Seemingly, having failed themselves to unite the very same combo only recently before... took an unequivocal email from Rubber B attesting to the fact it would not fit and that they had no offering for the GV before I even got a refund... unimpressed was (is) an understatement.
Poor technique, poor tools, and trying to work without a magnifier ( for strap changing) are the main reasons. Clamping the watch head in a case holder helps a lot, working in good light and using a magnifier to see what you’re doing helps a lot. When refitting bracelets I usually put a strip of tape on the lugs, it helps protect them from fine scratches caused by the springbar rubbing.
The Bergeon strap fitting tool with a very fine end is my tool of choice for removal, when refitting I often use a piece of pegwood or even a thumbnail if its an easy one. The tools with two ends are OK, particularly for snug- fitting solid end pieces, they allow both ends of the springbar to be squeezed.
With bracelets it often helps to separate clasp if it’s easy to do, this gives better access to the head and end pieces.
Another shout for the Burgeon spring bar tool with a selection of head sizes... A good tool really makes the job easier and minimises the chance of damage occuring.
I've never felt the need to tape the lugs.
Having had a few quick change springbar straps (albeit on cheaper watches sick as fossil), I really can't see why they aren't more popular as they seem equally secure and wear identically.
I much prefer screwed ends (i.e Oris Aquis) as they seem hljust some much more robust and a darned sight easier to remove.... Big shout for drilled lugs too but can see why they wouldn't work on certain battles of watch.
Similarly, a pin pusher makes light work of bracelet sizing and cost practically nothing.
You watch people cleaning their teeth?
I suppose nothing should surprise me in the day of the internet, but that's a new one on me!
M
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Breitling Cosmonaute 809 - What's not to like?
Yes, it is my job to do so.
That sounds very boring, is there more to the job........or just the cleaning?
Mainly just the cleaning ;-)
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