can't remove band...

[safeword]

I have a new explorer 2...anyone have a video link that will show me a method for getting the band off? I've watch a couple, but all I've gotten from the methods is a dent in my finger from where I've been trying to push the paper clip to release the band!

[Old Expat Beast]

Is it the holes or no holes case?

[usmc93]

All you need is a spring bar removal tool to do it right/easily, holes or no holes, this will get it done...I use a Bergeon 6767 Springbar Tool, but there are cheaper and more expensive ones. But I am guessing you are wanting it done now and don't have a tool? In that case if you have holes case, find something thicker/stiffer than your paper clip but still fits ok and is not pointed like a needle. Personally I would recommend the tool or head to your AD, if he is worth anything he will quickly do it free.

[2ar2c1]

the correct tool:

[safeword]

i've been trying with a paper clip and have watched a couple videos...i still can't remove it. every time i push the spring bar and try to push the bracelet out, nothing happens. i'm going to go to my watch guy and see if he can teach me. also try to get a job at his shop...i'm willing to work for free, i'd like to learn how to build/repair watches.

[safeword]

this is my new best friend...

[sleddog]

Originally Posted by safeword

i've been trying with a paper clip and have watched a couple videos...i still can't remove it. every time i push the spring bar and try to push the bracelet out, nothing happens. i'm going to go to my watch guy and see if he can teach me. also try to get a job at his shop...i'm willing to work for free, i'd like to learn how to build/repair watches.

Not sure what you're doing, but perhaps the paper clip is your problem.??

You need to get both sides of the springbar depressed at the same time, and whilst pressing the end link/bracelet from the caseback side to the watch face side...
As long as both sides of the springbar is depressed, it will let go of the case head. Springbar pliers work well, and compress both sides of the sprigbar at the same time.. A paper clip, or even a toothpick will only do one side at a time, but will work in a pinch, although you need to keep pressure on the bracelet and springbar at the same time so as to avoid the springbar compressing again on one side while trying to compress the other side... Make sense?

[Andad]

Welcome to the Forum Rob.

[Tools]

Originally Posted by safeword

I have a new explorer 2...anyone have a video link that will show me a method for getting the band off? I've watch a couple, but all I've gotten from the methods is a dent in my finger from where I've been trying to push the paper clip to release the band!

You should spend some time in our Reference Library..

[safeword]

Originally Posted by sleddog

Not sure what you're doing, but perhaps the paper clip is your problem.??

You need to get both sides of the springbar depressed at the same time, and whilst pressing the end link/bracelet from the caseback side to the watch face side...
As long as both sides of the springbar is depressed, it will let go of the case head. Springbar pliers work well, and compress both sides of the sprigbar at the same time.. A paper clip, or even a toothpick will only do one side at a time, but will work in a pinch, although you need to keep pressure on the bracelet and springbar at the same time so as to avoid the springbar compressing again on one side while trying to compress the other side... Make sense?

I've watched 3 different guys do it with a paper clip on youtube...works for them one side at a time. One guy did it with some sort of tool, but again, one side at a time.

[rmfnla]

Originally Posted by safeword

I've watched 3 different guys do it with a paper clip on youtube...works for them one side at a time. One guy did it with some sort of tool, but again, one side at a time.

I always do it one side at a time.

The trick is to push the end piece down just enough for the spring bar to catch on the inside of the lug. Then depress the other side and the whole thing will just pop out...

[sleddog]

Originally Posted by safeword

I've watched 3 different guys do it with a paper clip on youtube...works for them one side at a time. One guy did it with some sort of tool, but again, one side at a time.

Well sure, I do it one side at a time as well when I don't have my springbar pliers handy, or I'm traveling. In that case, a simple toothpick works well for me...
I wasn't saying it can't be done one side at a time, I was only stating that both sides at once is much easier, and perhaps a better way for 'you' to approach the bracelet change.....

Best of luck to you!

PS: Take Larry's advice, and browse the 'Reference Section' for how too's.

[safeword]

Originally Posted by rmfnla

I always do it one side at a time.

The trick is to push the end piece down just enough for the spring bar to catch on the inside of the lug. Then depress the other side and the whole thing will just pop out...

Yeah...I guess I'll keep trying!

[safeword]

got it off! I was pushing down on the wrong part of the bracelet! Now I need to figure out how to put the damn thing back on without scratching the lugs...thanks for the help and patience.

[sleddog]

Originally Posted by safeword

got it off! I was pushing down on the wrong part of the bracelet! Now I need to figure out how to put the damn thing back on without scratching the lugs...thanks for the help and patience.

A wooden toothpick has zero chance of scratching your end links and or lugs...
Also a good idea if you tape off the back of your lugs while trying to install the bracelet!
Give that a try!

Here is a link to a tutorial if you didn't find it in our reference section.

http://www.rolexforums.com/showpost....4&postcount=13

[safeword]

I know what a watch without a bracelet looks like, but I forgot whilst taking the bracelet off and didn't think to apply pressure to the center of the first link, I thought that was part of the actual watch.

I got the bracelet back on pretty easily. once I realized that since I pushed down to take it off, I probably should push up to put it on!

I'm new at this, but watches excite me like not much else. I'm going to put some serious effort into learning more...

[rmfnla]

Originally Posted by safeword

got it off! I was pushing down on the wrong part of the bracelet! Now I need to figure out how to put the damn thing back on without scratching the lugs...thanks for the help and patience.

Originally Posted by safeword

I know what a watch without a bracelet looks like, but I forgot whilst taking the bracelet off and didn't think to apply pressure to the center of the first link, I thought that was part of the actual watch.

I got the bracelet back on pretty easily. once I realized that since I pushed down to take it off, I probably should push up to put it on!

I'm new at this, but watches excite me like not much else. I'm going to put some serious effort into learning more...

Good show!

Putting it back on is the same process in reverse; engage one end of the springbar inside the lug (don't worry about getting it into the hole yet), then depress the other side with a tool (I use a small screwdriver with the ends rounded and polished to avoid scratches) and slip it into place.

Now move the entire end piece/band/springbar assembly until the pins hit the holes and engage.

You're done!