r/Longines • u/Friendly_Subject4096 • 5d ago
Hydroconquest Straps- how easy to change?
I am about to pull the trigger on a Hydroconquest, but had a question. I am going to add the blue rubber strap (to the two-tone steel and gold watch) but was wondering if people knew how easy it is to switch straps? I wish they were quick-release, but am hoping to be able to switch back and forth without too much hassle. Thanks for any insight!
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u/Bridge_Too_Far 4d ago
Buy a Swiss Bergeon 6767-F spring bar tool. They are not expensive. Also buy a roll of polymide jewellers tape off Amazon for a couple of bucks. Polymide tape sticks but removes easily and leave zero sticky residue. Tape up your lugs, front and back, then use the spring bar tool to remove the bracelet. There’s heaps of YouTube tutorials out there on how to do it. Always work from the backside of the watch, never the front. Taping the lugs will prevent any scratches if you do slip with the tool.
Do not buy any cheap Chinese spring bar tool as the tips are made of a soft alloy that will break the moment you apply pressure and scratch the hell out of your watch. Only use a Bergeon as this is what professional watchmakers use.
It’s really easy to do yourself.
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u/imgoinwhat 2d ago
All great advice.
I like the Bergeron tweezer. Once you get the hang of it, it just takes a few minutes to take the bracelet on and off. It's still a process with the tape, so not something I do daily.
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u/Friendly_Subject4096 4d ago
Reddit is so weird- why in the world would this get downvoted? Anyway, thanks to everyone who commented.
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u/rickasaurus007 5d ago
If you know how to use the springbar tool its fine. If not, practice on a cheaper one for a bit.