changing to a nato band

[Charlotte Luke]

I have recently purchased my first sd. I was thinking about switching to a Nato band and wanted to know a couple of things. Is changing the band something I can do? If so, how difficult is it to change? Can you switch between the Nato and oyster braclet? Most importantly, how do you do this? Thanks for the help in advance everyone!

[jgadea]

I think that's not a problem...

[Gob Bluth]

Removing the bracelet is fairly simple if you have the proper tool (Bergeon, i forgot the model #s that work best). If you have lug holes I believe you could use a toothpick, paper clip, etc but i'm not sure how you would get the springbars back into place (to put the nato on). Be sure to tape the lugs prior to performing this procedure (to avoid scratches).

If no lug holes: To remove the bracelet use the fork side of the tool to push one side of the springbar in towards the case (while applying pressure to the end link w/ your finger). Maintain this pressure on the endlink and then switch to the other side of the springbar and use the fork to push that side in towards the case. The bracelet should slide off rather easily.

If lug holes: use the blunt side of the tool to push the springbar in (through the lug hole). apply pressure to the end link while doing this. maintain the pressure and move to the other lug hole. once you press the springbar in the bracelet should slide off.

To put the springbars back onto the watch I believe you will definetely need a bergeon tool or one similar to it.

Do a search and you should find a much better answer w/ pictures.

[arkwhaler]

http://www.oysterworld.de/1/index.htm

look under "changing the bracelet"

i don't use a springbar tool, but a precision screwdriver filed down, but be careful or you might scratch your lugs.

[jasper]

Originally Posted by Charlotte Luke

I have recently purchased my first sd. I was thinking about switching to a Nato band and wanted to know a couple of things. Is changing the band something I can do? If so, how difficult is it to change? Can you switch between the Nato and oyster braclet? Most importantly, how do you do this? Thanks for the help in advance everyone!

Yeah - what you want to do is PM a guy named JJ Irani. He'll tell you exactly what to do.

I'm kidding - don't do that. JJ is not a NATO fan.

I am however. Do wear your SD on a NATO once in a while. Do be careful removing the bracelet so you don't scratch your watch. Don't be afraid to swap back and forth for different looks. Do expect your wife to think you're nuts.

[camfam]

I just put a NATO on an 1016 Explorer. It took two seconds with a toothpick. I don't want to think about having to do it with a SEL and no drilled lugs!

Cam

[bodybump]

Very easy...i tried one and thought it would be tough...just remove the spring bar and put it back...its more harder to change tires than putting a NATO band...

[MikeyTX]

I love these old threads. They're worth their weight in gold.