44 ROO strap change tools

[SC11]

Guys what tools do you use for strap changes?

I've seen a few recommend the AP bands kit which is a Bergeon 1.4 screwdriver and their own brand 1.4 screwdriver block, is this kit any good?

I know on my the Oyster bracelets they recommend hollow ground over the pointed so I use the ref:2100 rather then a standard Bergeon 1.6, is the tip type important on the AP?

And I've never used a screwdriver block but guess it would be easier then trying to use two screwdrivers?

Thanks in advance

[AshAP]

I use 2 x Bergeon screwdrivers, the block could possibly make it easier however once you've used the 2 screwdrivers it's quite easy.

The most important part of changing your strap is the quality of the screwdrivers, Bergeon is definitely a quality product and inexpensive. I bought mine from HS Walsh in London through eBay.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[SC11]

Had these options in mind

1) AP bands kit: Bergeon 1.4 and their 1.4 screwdriver base

2) Bergeon 1.4 and Bergeon #6730 base (expensive but one of my business suppliers sells Bergeon so can order via them)

3) 2x Bergeon 1.4's and a case holder

Also most tutorials show the strap being changed off the plots but then noted a couple of members on here say the prefer to leave the plots on the straps and remove by unscrewing the plots off the case! Which method is best?

[AshAP]

I change the strap leaving the plots on the case, why make more work? Once you've changed the strap a few times it only takes 5 mins.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[AshAP]

+ a pair of tweezers come in handy unless you've got really nimble fingers. The ends of the screw bars are quite small and tweezers helps with handling those.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[SC11]

Thanks Ash, with using two screwdrivers who do you hold the case steady?

[SC11]

Also see AP bands suggest 1.4mm but then a few tutorials say 1.6mm and even 2.0mm

[AshAP]

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[AshAP]

My tools are Bergeon and it says 160 on them which I suppose means 1.6mm - given that you need a very secure grip on each screw head I wouldn't go any less and I think 2mm would be too wide.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[AshAP]

Originally Posted by SC11

Thanks Ash, with using two screwdrivers who do you hold the case steady?

Place the case upside down on, I use a jewellers polishing cloth, you don't need to hold the case at all.

The idea is to apply equal pressure to each side of the screw bar and the screw head will release. This will possibly take patience depending on how long it's been since the strap was changed or how tight it was screwed the last time the strap was changed.

Your technique will improve the more you do it.

Since I replied yesterday I've also ordered the Bergeon spring bar tool for the buckle which will make that a bit easier to change.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[SC11]

Ok so case flat down and working a driver in each hand either side?

I've seen this technique with the driver block but also seen it done like this with two screwdrivers


What stringbar tool did you go for? I've had the 6825 and now replaced it with the 7825

[AshAP]

Yes I have the case flat on a working surface and a screwdriver in each hand, other people may prefer the method in the photo but I'm not sure if the driver block would just spin around unless there's a lot of downward pressure (which could have catastrophic results if you slip!)



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Manofsteelpt]

I use the Bergeron tools too (minus the fancy AP pouch Ash has).

As Ash mentioned above, I'd be VERY scared the case would slip off the block and scratch the case. I actually purchased the Berg block, then returned it after seeing how easy it was to swap with just the tools.

And for the record, I am NOT handy with tools in ANY WAY what so ever!!! I'm the guy that grabs a wrench when a drill is actually needed, and asks: will this work???




Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[AshAP]

Originally Posted by Manofsteelpt

I'm the guy that grabs a wrench when a drill is actually needed, and asks: will this work???




Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

🤣🤣



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Manofsteelpt]

Add in, I use the grey coded drivers, which are 1.4mm.

[JJ WA]

Originally Posted by SC11

Ok so case flat down and working a driver in each hand either side?

I've seen this technique with the driver block but also seen it done like this with two screwdrivers


What stringbar tool did you go for? I've had the 6825 and now replaced it with the 7825

I acquired this base but never got used to it. Maybe it's due to the need to work on the vertical direction. Much prefer to work with two screwdrivers by placing the watch horizontally. Of course, that is just me - for those who can adjust to the base, it would be very practical.