Awkward Bracelet Removal

[WillFly]

The Oris watch I bought recently on eBay arrived this morning and, as I don't care for metal bracelets, I've ordered a strap for it. There was no problem with taking out one strap pin, but the other end is very tight indeed. Any advice for getting it out?

 

[autowind]

If you do not want the bracelet then carefully cutting through the ends with side cutters should allow you remove it.

[WillFly]

I managed - unfortunately - to snip one end of the pin. So one pin came out freely, one pin has been snipped out - but the end of the pin is in the lug hole and just won't drop out.

 

Not my day...

[Geo]

What a proper pain in the ar$e.

If you can remove the movement, put the case in an ultrasonic cleaner and it should vibrate the pin remnant out.

[WillFly]

Good idea, Geo - I'll go that route!

[autowind]

That pin must be a very tight fit as they will normally fall out.  Using your eyeglass is there any chance of working it out with say a sewing needle? If you could manage to move it,  it might loosen up enough to be pulled out with a magnet,  not what you want near a watch I know.  Unless it was hammered in with a lump hammer it should be possible to work it loose one way or another.  I think we all get things which start off as an easy job and for one reason or another just seem to get worse,  I`m sure you will overcome this particular problem in the end.  Let us know how it goes as I feel somewhat guilty for suggesting the snippers.   :(

[WillFly]

No worries, Autowind - I'd planned to snip the pin myself anyway - and someone else has suggested a magnet (minus the movement, of course). I'll try the magnet.

[WillFly]

Well, in the end (hah!) the strap pin bit came out with the aid of a sewing needle - hurray! A minor triumph for an old man... And here's the Oris with new Condor strap:

 

Edited April 15, 2014 by WillFly

[autowind]

Believe me I`m as relieved as you are,  looks a hell of a lot better than before.

[DMS]

Very nice, and it looks a nice watch :thumbsu:

[WillFly]

It's a lovely dial, and the new strap sets it off nicely on the wrist. Good movement as well. Not bad for £30, including postage. If there's a watch I particularly want - and I can afford it - I'll go for it without worrying about money. But it's always a bonus when you get a nice watch for a reasonable price.