General Question: Changing Straps

[Mountaineer14]

Hi,

I recently got my first 'proper' timepiece, and it came with a Hirsch rubber wrist strap for it. I want to change the oiled leather strap and put on the rubber one. Since this is my first proper watch, should I just get it done at some watch shop? How much do you think this will cost? Also, I wouldn't mind learning how to do it myself with that special tool. I saw a video on it in YouTube.

I am assuming most people here change their own wrist straps, and can see the utility in doing so. But, for the first time, should I have it changed at a proper watch shop? Also, I am looking for a general daily cleaning cloth for the brushed stainless steel crown and crystal. A jeweler's cloth perhaps? Can I just walk into a watch shop and ask to purchase one? And, when I begin to get hairline scratches on the brushed stainless steel crown, any type of cloth for that?

Thank you all very much in advance.

Mountaineer14.

[J_Hack]

It is up to you if you want to change it. If you are into watches and would be performing this task occasionally, then yes, learn to do it yourself and get the tool. I would recommend the Bergeon 6767f. It works with most watches. If you try, tape your lugs with some masking tape to help protect from getting scratches. Keep in mind, you are going to be more careful with not scratching your watch than a jewelry shop.

As for a cleaning cloth, just use a microfiber cloth. I just use my shirt even. It is a watch and going to get scratched up anyways, so don't worry too much. If you get scratches on the case, I would typically let them be. It is going to happen regardless unless you just don't wear it.

[Mountaineer14]

Thank you very much for the advice J_Hack. Yes, I definitely would want to experiment with some more straps and get some more watches, so I will definitely be getting the tool, and learning how to do this. I think it is a necessary skill if I plan on being into watches, and after this purchase, I already am hooked! Anybody else feel free to chime in with cloths or whatever. I learn very fast, but I am still a noob right now, and want to learn from the best.

[Mountaineer14]

Just ordered the tool, and I am very excited into getting into watches!

[J_Hack]

Just take your time and be careful. Lots of people have gouged themselves changing straps!

[Mountaineer14]

Thanks for the safety heads up J_Hack. :)

[Nokie]

Practice first on something else if you can to get the hang of it. Just takes patience and a firm but gentle touch if that makes sense.

Also a good tip for people new to strap changing is to use a bit of scotch tape around the lugs and spring bar holes to keep accidental scratches to a minimum.

The tape will offer some protection for the case and lugs and can be easily removed when finished.

[mutemode]

Good call, Mountaineer. As Nokie stated, just be patient. You'll get the hang of it, and pretty soon you'll be teasing yourself for ever having considered having a shop do it.

[Mountaineer14]

Hey guys, well, my Bergeon 6767-f spring bar tool arrived today, and following the video tutorial on YouTube I found it was very easy. I am very happy I didn't go to a shop to do this! I have the rubber wrist strap on it now, and it looks real cool! But, after seeing how this wasn't really a chore, rather, it being quite fun, I can see myself going from one strap to another once a week. Another thing I noticed about the Bergeon is that it is quality! It seems as if the brand name and product code are laser etched; thereby, preventing the lettering from wearing away with handling. I really enjoy high quality things, as well as tools. :) They have so many cool tools! ^^

Quick question to all of you. Do some of you change straps once a week, say, during the workweek you have the leather strap on, (I wear a suit to work) and then on the weekends you change to a rubber or another sport like strap? Is changing straps once a week bad? I'm thinking not, but I like the customization potential that exists, with a seemingly easy task. I've always had great dexterity, and a fine hand when it comes to details. After all, one of my hobbies is painting pewter miniatures for my RPG games. :) Who knows, maybe I'll check out watchmaking school, but unfortunately The Bulova School of Watchmaking is closed down in NYC. I've always liked things like this. I have a great formal education from a university, but learning a trade couldn't hurt either I think. :) I digress...lol..one step at a time hee hee.

Regards,

Mountaineer14.

[nicktanbt]

Just take your time and be careful. Lots of people have gouged themselves changing straps!

I think some of us rather hurt our fingers than our watches heheh