How To Change A Watch Strap Or Bracelet

Blake Malin

Windup Watch Shop     |     July 31, 2024

Ever get tired of your watches, perhaps even bored of the ones you own? Though we wholly endorse and fully encourage purchasing more watches, have you considered refreshing yours instead? What do we mean by refreshing? How about trying a new strap, such as a NATO strap, a single-pass nylon, a hook-and-loop, or a mesh bracelet? A new strap or bracelet can reinvigorate a watch and provide an entirely different wearing experience. Some watches may stand out more when removed from an ornate bracelet. Certain straps can highlight the dial's color and emphasize it, similar to how someone with blue eyes wearing a matching blue shirt can draw more attention.

Having The Right Tools 

If you've never changed a bracelet or strap before, you may need a few things, such as a proper strap-changing tool. While it's technically possible to remove a strap or bracelet using a tiny screwdriver or even a penknife, we highly recommend using a good spring bar tool if you want to cause the least amount of damage. If you feel uncertain about using this type of tool, you can apply painter’s or masking tape to the lugs to help prevent unwanted scratches. We recommend keeping a microfiber cloth on hand to clean between the lugs after removing the bracelet or strap to remove any debris and perspiration that may accumulate there.

Selecting The Right Strap

Selecting the right strap is a very personal choice, but it has been our experience that there are no wrong choices. From a nylon NATO strap on a Lange & Söhne Datograph while wearing a T-shirt and jeans to a shell cordovan leather strap on a Rolex Submariner while wearing a suit, gone are the rules that constrain your options. Wear whatever you like, even if that means a bright pink crocodile strap on your Seiko 5 — we're here for it. In fact, have you seen the new premium ADPT Straps in summer colors? We are talking Aubergine, Taupe, and Green!

These premium straps, designed by Worn & Wound and manufactured in New York City, are made of Horween Dublin top leather with Wickett & Craig vegetable-tanned lining. The edges are painted with multiple complementary color layers for a cleaner fit and finish. The knots are hand-tied with thick braided, waxed cotton cord, adding a handmade detail. We used a fixed metal loop and a wide leather band for keepers, creating a rugged detail reminiscent of military straps. Nothing compares to Horween leather, and these quality straps will refresh any watch with style and comfort. Perhaps a little summer color is just what the doctor ordered.

A Photo Guide For Using The Tools

The images below will act as a guide for what part of the tool to use where, Be sure to practice caution in swapping out your straps so as to not damage the watch but most importantly remember to have fun with it!

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