Speedmaster reduced fabric strap

[ChevronB19]

Hi folks, before I ask my question, please bear in mind I haven’t a clue about watches!

I have an Omega Speedmaster reduced (skinny wrists FTW) bought for me to celebrate an occasion about 25 years ago.

It’s a black dial one with a black surround, with a stainless steel bracelet and a stainless case.

I’ve always been a bit too scared of wearing it as I perceived it as ‘too smart for general life’. But there is no point in having it if I don’t wear it, it’s not exactly like it will eventually be worth a million quid.

I’d like to use it as an everyday watch (don’t normally wear one), but would take it off when I was doing fieldwork etc. I would like to change to a fabric strap (doesn’t need to be an expensive one), and change to the stainless one if I go somewhere ‘smart’.

Can anyone recommend somewhere to get an appropriate fabric strap, and also how to change straps?

Ta!

[MrWideFit]

All you need to change the straps is a spring bar tool, can be picked up for pennies. See link for help

https://youtu.be/E4psVmJBRFo

The speedmaster reduced has a strap size of 18mm so as long as the lug size of the strap is 18mm nearly any will fit,

Just searching google for 18mm straps will kick back plenty of choices and sellers, just make sure to chuck up some pics when you decide on a new one

Edited by MrWideFit on Tuesday 21st April 17:00

Edited by MrWideFit on Tuesday 21st April 20:08

[gregs656]

I would try it on the bracelet, they wear well on them. Robust too.

[UKsandman]

Do not try to use a screwdriver to remove springbars. You are guaranteed to damage the rear of the lugs. Use a proper springbar removal tool and if you are not confident in doing it I would also protect the lugs with tape.

[ExBoringVolvoDriver]

Use a spring bar tool anf cettainly never a screw driver or other implememt.

As for straps You have a lot of choice and i wouldnt stick to just fabric either.

Look at Watch Obsession they have so many! Maybe a Hirsch Sailcloth look one may suit?

[Macneil]

There are still high st watch repair shops, jewellers and market stalls selling straps who'll fit them for you as well if you just want to dip your toe in the water as it were. Speedmasters are absolute strap monsters and look good on pretty much anything.

[Wildfire]

I have a load of NATO straps and a canvas with deployment / deployant clasp strap from Timefactors and they are really good quality. Worth keeping an eye on when they open.

[ChevronB19]

Thank you for all the tips folks, especially 1st reply. I ll investigate and report back. And use a spring bar tool!

Edited by ChevronB19 on Wednesday 22 April 10:15