Spring bar tools

[Nick M]

Having decided to try some different straps on some of my watches, it seems like a spring bar tool would be useful to make the job a little easier and less likely to result in damage to the watches, straps, or me !

Are they all pretty much of a muchness, or are some more useful than others ? Just looking at some and they look thicker and 'blunter' than others and hence may not fit as well into tight gaps between strap and case.

Or is there something better that I'm not aware of ?

I know it's a small thing, but it's been bothering me

Thanks all

[daveenty]

There are generally two types, fine (usually for bracelets) and standard (for straps)

I use the fine one for nearly everything, though use the standard one for tighter fitting rubber straps as I'm worried about breaking the fine one.

The best one is probably user defined, though most people go with the Bergeon 6767, which has interchangeable end pieces.

[andy_s]

daveenty said:

Bergeon 6767

That's what I use, it's the 'MX5' choice really.

[CardShark]

Bergeon tools are the ones to go for, I've bought cheap before and regretted it. Relative to the cost of watches themselves they're not expensive and if it's a tool that you think will be used often then it's worth the investment. Cheap ones break, easily!

[Nick M]

Thanks all, will track one down and order one with the fine and standard prongy bits

[sneijder]

The Chinese ones break easily, you get what you pay for.

Cover the lugs with masking tape if you're doing it for the first time, you'll save a scratch or two.