Fitting guide
If you’d like to replace your watch strap with a new one, just like tailoring a suit, you will need to know what size to get. In this watch strap size guide, we will detail different ways to find that measurement.
Find the width
The easiest way to find your strap size is to check the back of your current strap for a stamping (such as in the example below) that indicates the size in millimeters.
If there is no indication of size on the back of your old strap, then make a measurement between the lugs where the strap attaches to the watch, as indicated in the image below. Use a ruler or a caliper, if you have one. If you intend to continue using your old buckle, you will also need to measure the width between the points where the strap attaches to the buckle.
Find the length
Next, you will need to know what length of strap to buy. Determine this by measuring the length of both pieces together without including the buckle.
DeBeer's size chart is as follows:
7-1/4" to 7-1/2" is considered a regular length
6-1/2" to 6-3/4" is considered a short length
How to change your watch strap
To change out your current watch strap, work with the back of the watch facing you and start with either the top or bottom strap piece. Locate the point on the lug (the arms that clasp the band) where the band is attached to the watch. You will see a small pin or bar connecting the strap to the lug. Use a magnifying glass if necessary.
Remove the old strap
Carefully use the forked end of a spring bar tool to depress the spring-loaded bar towards the strap and release it from the lug hole. When the tension on the spring bar is released, it may pop out of the strap -- take care not to lose it.
Repeat this process with the other piece of your old strap to change it out.
Install the new strap
Take the top or bottom half of your new strap and slide the spring bar into the tube on the strap’s attaching end. Slip one side of the bar into the corresponding lug hole on the watch. Then, use the spring bar removal tool to depress the other side of the spring bar and guide it into the hole in the other side of the lug. You should hear an audible "click" when the spring bar pops into place.
Repeat this process with the other half of the strap and other spring bar to complete your strap change.
Changing the buckle
Cover the table with a towel so that you can see anything that may drop or pop out during the process of changing the buckle.
Work with the back of the buckle facing you. Find the point where one side of the strap is attached to the buckle, using a magnifying glass if necessary. You will see a small pin or bar connecting the strap to the buckle. Carefully use the the forked end of a spring bar removal tool to depress the spring-loaded bar and release it from the buckle. When the tension on the spring bar is released, it may pop out of the strap and you will want to take care not to lose it.
Take the new strap and slip the spring bars into the end of the strap where it attaches to the buckle. Working with one end at a time, slip one side into the pin hole in the buckle. Use the spring bar removal tool to depress the other side of the spring bar and guide it into the pin hole in the other side of the buckle body. You will hear an audible "click" when the spring bar pops into place.
Sometimes the ends of the spring bars are exposed through holes on either side of the buckle. If this is the case, simply use the pointed end of the spring bar removal tool to press out one side of the spring bar.
Any questions? Contact us and we are happy to help.
