"Changing watch straps" may sound like a complicated task for watch wearers who have little or no experience in doing so. The numerous components of a watch can make it appear complex to some individuals. In fact, the Apple Watch strap and various watch straps can be replaced relatively easily with the help of this step-by-step guide, which is also user-friendly for ladies. Get ready to change the watch strap on your own!
Get to know the watch accessories before replacing the watch strap:
- Watch lugs: where a watch strap, band, or bracelet connects to the watch case with a metal spring bar.
- Watch case: the outer shell for protecting the watch movement and watch mechanism from being exposed to moisture and dust contamination.
- Spring bars: Accessories for connecting the watch strap and the watch case
Tutorial of strap replacement: Steps to replace all types of watch strap
How to change apple watch band
Following the next 4 steps, you will be able to change the Apple Watch band in a few minutes without any tools.
1. To protect your watch from scratches or damage, place your Apple Watch face down over a soft and clean towel on the desk.
2. At the top and bottom of the watch, you will find the quick release button. Hold down one of the band release buttons and gently slide the watch band horizontally to release.
3. Repeat the steps with the other half of the band.
4. After removing both sides of the original watch band, you can now replace it with your new Apple Watch band. Align it with the band connector and slide it in, until you feel or hear a click. You have successfully changed to your Apple Watch band.
*Apple Watch applied magnetic attachment system to connect the watch band and watch case.
Hints
If you do not feel or hear a click when changing your Apple Watch band, slide the band to the left and right to ensure it is securely attached to the watch. The watch band will not slide freely unless you press and hold the band release button.
You'll realize that changing an Apple Watch strap is easy!
How to change watch strap with spring bar
The connection between the watch case and watch strap using a spring bar is the most commonly used installation method in high-end watches, including Cartier, Breguet, and other renowned brands. The advantage of this method is that it ensures a seamless fit with the original watch buckle and spring bars, eliminating any misalignment or gaps.
Spring bar
Removing your old strap
1. Hold the watch strap well to ensure the watch remains immobile.
2. Use the thread or dental floss to make the gap between the watch strap and the lug.
3. To remove the spring bar, use the pin side of a spring bar tool and push it into the lug hole, thereby releasing the watch strap from the watch case.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 with the other half of the strap.
Install the new watch strap
5. Hold one end of the spring bar and place it into one of the lug holes.
6. Use the pin side of a spring bar tool and gently push the spring bar into the lug hole
7. Repeat steps 5-6 with the other half of the strap.
8. Lastly, tug on both sides of the new strap to ensure a tight and secure connection to the watch.
How to replace quick release watch strap
Quick release watch strap features dedicated quick-release buttons, providing convenience to the wearer by allowing easy detachment of the strap from the watch without the need for additional tools. However, it's important to note that quick-release straps are only compatible with specific watch models or wristwatch sizes.
Steps to replace quick release watch strap
1.Remove the strap by pulling the quick release button
2.Align one end of the spring bar with the hole of the watch lug
- Press the quick-release buttons again, and then insert the other end of the spring bar into the watch’s lugs.
- Release the quick-release buttons and ensure the spring bar is locked into the watch’s lugs.
- Repeat the above steps with the other half of the strap.
- Lastly, tug on both sides of the new watch strap to ensure a tight and secure connection to the watch.
How to change watch strap with screw spring bar
Specifically for watch straps equipped with screw spring bars, such as Panerai watch strap, you will need to use a flathead screwdriver to replace them.
First, prepare the tool, a flathead screwdriver for replacing the watch strap.
- Insert the screwdriver tip into the screw head in the hole and turn anti-clockwise to unscrew it
- Take out the screw pin and remove one side of the strap
- Repeat steps 1-2 with the other half of the strap.
- Put the strap onto the watch, align the lug holes on the strap and watch case, insert the screw pin through the lug hole.
- After inserting the screws, turn clockwise by using a screwdriver to tighten the screw pin
- Complete with adding a new watch buckle.
Summary
By understanding the components and following our complete guide on how to replace watch strap on your own, changing your watch band becomes much simpler, regardless of whether you are using an Apple Watch or another brand of watch.