VSF Yachtmaster 42mm 226659 - how to remove oysterflex strap spring bars

[biff1001]

Hi there,

Could someone please tell me which tool is required to remove the spring bars on the VSF Yachtmaster 42mm 226659.

Thanks in advance. [h=1][/h]

 

[p0pperini]

I use the Bergeon 6767-F (Fine) spring bar tool for all my watches, including those fitted with Oysterflex and other rubber straps.

 

[biff1001]

I use the Bergeon 6767-F (Fine) spring bar tool for all my watches, including those fitted with Oysterflex and other rubber straps.

I bought this tool which looks very similar https://www.etsy.com/listing/689589962/spring-bar-removal-tool-double-end-with.

The spring bars look different in that they have a sleeve which can be pushed in either direction but don't want be release.

 

[p0pperini]

I bought this tool which looks very similar https://www.etsy.com/listing/689589962/spring-bar-removal-tool-double-end-with.

The spring bars look different in that they have a sleeve which can be pushed in either direction but don't want be release.

Ah... well that's interesting. If they're some exotic design then I'd wait till someone with more knowledge pops up, like KJ2020 for instance.

What I would say is that I've also got cheap Chinese versions of the Bergeon tool, and invariably the cheapo ones have tips made of semi-hardened cheese and really don't get the correct "bite" on the springbar and are inclined to bend and deform at the first sign of resistance from the bar, which is why I recommended the gen Bergeon.

 

[biff1001]

Ah... well that's interesting. If they're some exotic design then I'd wait till someone with more knowledge pops up, like KJ2020 for instance.

What I would say is that I've also got cheap Chinese versions of the Bergeon tool, and invariably the cheapo ones have tips made of semi-hardened cheese and really don't get the correct "bite" on the springbar and are inclined to bend and deform at the first sign of resistance from the bar, which is why I recommended the gen Bergeon.

Thanks. I will buy the Bergeon.

 

[SOLEX]

The rubber strap makes it a bit hard to get to the spring bar. Sure the Bergeon mentioned would work, but I use the tool that has a wider spring bar remover. Looks like a fork, but much wider than the one that takes our regular spring bars. Not sure how to explain it, so here is a link. You do not have to buy this specific tool, I found it randomly, but has both types of spring bar removal tools in one piece.

https://www.amazon.com/Spring-Bar-T...9Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

 

[biff1001]

The rubber strap makes it a bit hard to get to the spring bar. Sure the Bergeon mentioned would work, but I use the tool that has a wider spring bar remover. Looks like a fork, but much wider than the one that takes our regular spring bars. Not sure how to explain it, so here is a link. You do not have to buy this specific tool, I found it randomly, but has both types of spring bar removal tools in one piece.

https://www.amazon.com/Spring-Bar-T...9Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

The spring bar doesn't seem to have the normal shoulders that i've seen before on others.

 

[Plaasbaas]

I am not sure if you have shoulderless spring bars, but from your description I thought of those. They will be a pain to remove if mounted on a watch without drilled lugs.

Many people seem to simply cut them with whatever means they find, destroying the springbar in the process while desperately trying not to harm the lugs. I never tried this myself as I have never dealt with shoulderless springbars myself, but if saw this - don't know if it works or if it is a bad joke lol. But worth a try

How to remove shoulderless spring bars with dental floss - YouTube

 

[p0pperini]

I am not sure if you have shoulderless spring bars, but from your description I thought of those.

Oh, you might be right - that didn't cross my mind, but having read the OP's description again, yes it could be the issue. If so, then the linked YouTube vid could be a life saver...

 

[GingerBubba]

Please OP, whatever you do, don't listen to any 'advice' Poppadoodle gives you re watch repair/modding without looking at some of his modding threads (and thus realising what a complete disaster he is).

Hope this helps.

 

[SOLEX]

The spring bar doesn't seem to have the normal shoulders that i've seen before on others.

That is odd, I do not know why VSF would do that. I have not checked the springbars on my previous YM, but I would hope it would be a removable springbar.

 

[wubsub]

yes its not easy, you have to twist the strap down at the lugs to get a good look at the springbar, then use the tool

 

[p0pperini]

Please OP, whatever you do, don't listen to any 'advice' Poppadoodle gives you re watch repair/modding without looking at some of his modding threads (and thus realising what a complete disaster he is).

Hope this helps.

"With many great disasters, come many great wisdom." I'm pretty sure that's how the saying goes.

https://www.rwg.bz/board/index.php?...-bluesy-has-been-fitted-using-2mm-springbars/

 

[biff1001]

Finally got them out thanks. They have really fine grooves at the tips so difficult to get a grip on.