What you need to know when changing your watch spring bars / watch pins.

by Luxury Watch Straps

See our spring bars here

So, you’ve just noticed that your beloved watch strap is looking a little loose, maybe it’s wobbling more than a jelly on a trampoline, or perhaps it just broke off altogether (oh dear). The culprit? Most likely, your spring bars. These tiny but mighty components are the unsung heroes of the wristwatch world, holding your strap in place. They may be small, but getting the right size is crucial. Grab a cuppa, and let's dive into the wonderful world of spring bars, where precision meets style, all in a very British fashion.

What are Spring Bars?

For the uninitiated, spring bars are those little metal rods that attach your watch strap or bracelet to the watch case. They have spring-loaded ends that allow them to fit snugly into the lugs of your watch. The key to a secure fit is using the correct size spring bars. Too short, and your watch could fall off with a hearty handshake. Too long, and you’ll damage the lugs, making your treasured timepiece look like it’s been to war and back.

Why Size Matters

Getting the right size is like picking the perfect pair of shoes; if they’re too big or too small, you’re in for a world of discomfort. Similarly, the wrong-sized spring bars can lead to disaster—either your watch goes flying across the room (not ideal) or the lugs get damaged. In both cases, it's more than just embarrassing; it's downright inconvenient.

Step-by-Step: How to Measure Your Spring Bars

  1. Measure the Lug Width
    The most critical measurement is the lug width—the distance between the two lugs where the spring bar sits. You’ll need a set of calipers or a ruler (and if you’re going with the ruler, you might need a magnifying glass because, let's face it, it’s a fiddly business).

    Hold the watch head and place the ruler or calipers inside the lugs. Measure from one inner edge to the other. This is your lug width, which typically ranges from 18mm to 24mm for most watches. Record the measurement because you'll need it to choose the correct spring bars.

  2. Length of the Spring Bar
    The length of the spring bar must match the lug width exactly. If your watch has a 20mm lug width, you’ll need a 20mm spring bar. It seems obvious, but you’d be amazed at how many people opt for “close enough” rather than the precise size and then wonder why their strap isn’t sitting right.

  3. Measure the Diameter
    The diameter of the spring bar is the next important factor. Standard spring bars are around 1.8mm in diameter, but you can find thicker ones (e.g., 2.0mm) for extra security. Thick spring bars are particularly useful for heavier watches like divers or chronographs. Check your current spring bars if you want to match the thickness or experiment with slightly thicker ones for better stability.

  4. Double-Flanged or Single-Flanged?
    Now here’s a bit of a wild card. Spring bars come in either double-flanged or single-flanged styles. Double-flanged bars have two little ridges that make them easier to remove, while single-flanged ones are a bit more stubborn. I’d recommend the double-flanged version for ease of use. Why make life harder than it needs to be?

Let’s Get Visual: Understanding the Different Types of Spring Bars

Imagine a line-up of spring bars on a very tiny catwalk.

  1. Straight Spring Bars – The basic, dependable ones you find on most watches. They sit straight and true, like the Queen’s Guard at Buckingham Palace.
  2. Curved Spring Bars – These have a slight curve to them, making them ideal for watches with rounded cases. A bit more posh and elegant, wouldn’t you say?
  3. Double-Flanged Spring Bars – These are the ones with ridges on both ends, perfect for those who like to change straps more often than they change their socks.
  4. Fat Spring Bars – Thick, robust, and ideal for watches that demand a bit more strength. Think of them as the bodybuilders of the spring bar world.

Quick Tips for Success

  • Always measure twice. As the old adage goes, "Measure twice, buy once." It’s true for tailoring, DIY, and, yes, spring bars.
  • Don’t force it. If the bar doesn’t slide in easily, it’s too big. No need to Hulk out and risk damaging the lugs.
  • Keep spares. Spring bars are like bobby pins or socks; they disappear. Stock up on a few extras so you’re never left in the lurch.

Final Thoughts

Spring bars may not be the flashiest part of your watch, but they’re essential for keeping it securely strapped to your wrist. Take the time to measure correctly and choose wisely, and you’ll be rewarded with a watch that fits perfectly, ready to take on the world—or at least the office.

Happy strap swapping, and may your spring bars be ever snug!

See our spring bars here

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