Removing Bracelet From Submariner

[IMG2]

I was reading the ultra sonic cleaning link and thought it was a great idea to take the bracelet off and then submerge just it in the ultrasonic cleaner. My problem is I don't know how to the the bracelet off since my lugs don't have any external holes. Is there a special tool or technique for removing the spring bar that holds the bracelet on?

[Dr. Robert]

There's a tool made by "Bergeon" that works on watches without lug holes.

But this post would be moot if Rolex kept drilled lug holes on their SS watches, bah humbug on Rolex for eliminating them.

[subtona]

Originally Posted by Dr. Robert

There's a tool made by "Bergeon" that works on watches without lug holes.

But this post would be moot if Rolex kept drilled lug holes on their SS watches, bah humbug on Rolex for eliminating them.

you said it bob

[kilyung]

You can also use a very small screwdriver to pry each spring bar end loose.

[azguy]

Originally Posted by kilyung

You can also use a very small screwdriver to pry each spring bar end loose.

while true, buy the tool, it makes life much easier

[subtona]

imho, whatever you use to take off bracelet, invariably it is going to lead to scratches...
wether you do it yourself or have an AD do it.

IF you do want to get the proper tool, remember to get the one specifically for rolex as it is considerably smaller/finer than others (in pictures on web for instance, they look identical)

[SaddleSC]

Bergeon 6111

[IMG2]

Bob referred me to an excellent website for tools. While I'm not planning on taking the bracelet off but once a year or so, I'll definitely get a springbar tool before I do it for the first time. Too bad because I have a buch of the old tools (toothpicks) still in their dispenser, I guess I'll have to find another use for them.

[Melanotaenia]

Originally Posted by subtona

imho, whatever you use to take off bracelet, invariably it is going to lead to scratches...
wether you do it yourself or have an AD do it.

Not if you tape off the metal around the area before removing, that usually keeps scratches to a minimum.

[IMG2]

Originally Posted by Melanotaenia

Not if you tape off the metal around the area before removing, that usually keeps scratches to a minimum.

Another great tip, thanks.

[Rolexpilot]

Don't do it. "No good deed goes unpunished."

The risk of a scratch outweighs the possibility that you can get it cleaner than with good old soap and water.

[wantonebad]

Originally Posted by Rolexpilot

Don't do it. "No good deed goes unpunished."

The risk of a scratch outweighs the possibility that you can get it cleaner than with good old soap and water.

I tend to agree, moreover simple jewelery cleaner and a toothbrush will take care of all the scum in the clasp and in between the links. That said if you do go with removing the bracelet, you'll be fine as long as you are careful and use a light hand. If it does get marred-up scratches can be repaired pretty easily.

[IMG2]

95% of my cleanings will be with a small brush, soap and water. I was thinking an ultra sonic cleaning once a year would get out the gunk in all the places the brush doesn't reach.

[wantonebad]

Originally Posted by IMG2

95% of my cleanings will be with a small brush, soap and water. I was thinking an ultra sonic cleaning once a year would get out the gunk in all the places the brush doesn't reach.

yeah, you're right, it's probably negligible though JMHO

[subtona]

Originally Posted by Melanotaenia

Not if you tape off the metal around the area before removing, that usually keeps scratches to a minimum.

good point

[mrbill2mrbill2]

http://www.ofrei.com/page252.html

[rossi46]

Originally Posted by mrbill2mrbill2

http://www.ofrei.com/page252.html

Anxiously awaiting the arrival of a Bergeon currently on its way - I'm going to experiment with some straps on my SubC!

[closetothebrink]

The Burgeon tool is great and easy to use to remove the bracelet. I've never had a problem with it "slipping" - but I always cover the adjacent polished surfaces with masking tape as a precaution.

[JohnFM]

I have some decent tools and a pretty steady hand and found that the hardest was getting the bracelet back on without scratches. Taking the bracelet off was comparatively easy. As much as I want to learn how to remove and re-install a Rolex bracelet like a pro, I'm thinking maybe soap and water is the way to go in the future. Wish those lug holes were still there!

[IMG2]

Mr. Bill, Ofrei, that's the site Dr Robert sent me to. Talk about some impressive tools. Answers a lot of the how do they do that questions.

[jolimont]

lol taking the bracelet off is easy, putting it back on is.... Nearly tore my hair out trying the first time- with lug holes!