How To Use a Spring Bar Tool

A spring bar tool is a small handy man tool used to remove watchstraps and other straps attached similarly. This is a very essential device for watchmakers and watch repairmen. It is also good to have one at home for simple repairs. Once you have learned how to use it properly, you will not find a need to go to the watch repairman and pay for a fee. Here are the simple steps on how to use a spring bar tool to replace a watchstrap

• Prepare the tools on a flat surface and lay out a white cloth so it will be easier to find the tiny spring bar when it is removed, and to make sure the watch does not scratch the table surface
• Place the watch on the cloth and use a spring bar tool to remove the spring bar that holds the strap to the watch. There are different spring bar tool sizes depending on the size of the watch. It is best to use the smaller size for a regular watch. The spring bat tool has a forked tip, which is inserted in between the end of the strap and the watch’s case lug. The forked tip should take a hold of the shoulder of the spring bar. Push the spring bar towards the strap, away from the watch’s case lug. This will cause the spring bar to latch out from the lug, and you can gently pull out the other end. This releases the strap.
• Catch the spring bar with your fingers, or let it fall on the white cloth. If it falls on the ground, it is best to use a magnet to search for it. As much as possible, though, do not drip the spring bar on the floor because it is too small and could fall into small spaces between wooden floors.
• You may remove the other strap following the same procedures.

When placing a new strap, follow these procedures:

• Insert the spring bar into the case end of the new strap. Make sure that both ends of the spring bar are exposed.
• Hold the strap horizontally so the spring bar does not fall off. Insert one tip to the hole of the case lug.
• Using a spring bar tool, push down the shoulder of the other tip of the spring bar so that the strap is aligned to the other tip.
• Release the spring bar tool and let the tip of the spring bar latch into the case lug.

Take caution when using spring bar tools. The tips of these tools are sharp and pointed and can pierce through the skin. It might pinch your fingertips and it will hurt a bit, especially so because the fingertips have nerve endings. Keep a clean hanky nearby to wipe off sweat or blood in case you get pierced. Also wipe the tips of the spring bar tool with alcohol before use, and wipe it with oil afterwards to avoid rusting.