How to change the strap on your watch

Refreshing the look of your watch can be as simple as learning how to change its strap. Whether you’re switching to a classic leather band, a sporty rubber strap, or a refined metal bracelet, changing the strap yourself allows for customization while preserving your timepiece’s integrity. This guide walks you through everything you need to know—from understanding different types of straps to the essential tools and techniques. With just a few steps, you can give your watch a fresh appearance that suits your style and every occasion.

Choosing the right strap is key to transforming both the look and feel of your watch. Each material offers unique aesthetic and functional qualities. Leather straps exude timeless elegance, perfect for formal occasions. Silicone or rubber straps provide durability and comfort, making them ideal for sports or everyday wear. Metal bracelets, often made of stainless steel, combine sophistication and longevity, while fabric or NATO straps bring a casual, versatile touch.

Beyond aesthetics, each strap also influences how your watch wears throughout the day. A supple leather band may feel luxurious on the wrist but requires more care. A rugged rubber strap is low-maintenance and ready for adventure, while a steel bracelet delivers visual weight and status.

Strap comparison table

Whether you seek refinement, resilience, or versatility, knowing how to change the strap on a watch opens new styling possibilities for every mood and setting.

Swapping your watch strap is a simple task with the proper tools on hand. The most important is a spring bar tool, used to compress and release the spring-loaded pins that attach the strap to the lugs. A soft lint-free cloth protects the watch face from scratches during the change. If needed, tweezers can assist in maneuvering small components.

To ensure safety and precision, always work in a well-lit, stable area. Gently press the spring bar without forcing it—slipping can damage the case or lugs . If you prefer not to risk scratching your watch, note that all Longines boutiques are trained to perform strap replacements. Keeping your fingers away from the tool’s tip helps prevent injury. With a little care and the right instruments, you can perform a strap change confidently, maintaining both style and functionality.

Changing a watch strap is straightforward when broken into clear steps. Prepare your workspace with a flat, soft surface and arrange your tools nearby. Note that NATO straps can be removed without using a spring bar tool.

1. Lay the watch face down on a cloth to prevent scratches
2. Locate the spring bars at both ends of the strap, where they connect to the lugs
3. Using the spring bar tool, compress one end of the spring bar inward by applying light pressure into the notch
4. Once compressed, gently slide out the strap while keeping the tool steady
5. Repeat on the other side to fully remove the strap

To install the new strap:

1. Insert one end of the spring bar into its lug hole
2. Compress the opposite end and guide it into the second lug
3. Ensure both ends click securely into place and tug lightly to check stability

This process applies mainly to leather, rubber, or fabric straps. Metal bracelets can be a bit trickier and may require additional adjustments or tools—if in doubt, have the installation done by a Longines certified professional.

Take your time. A steady hand ensures a clean change and preserves your watch’s condition.

Maintaining your straps keeps your watch looking sharp and performing well. Each material requires a tailored approach:

• Leather straps should be kept away from moisture. Wipe them gently with a dry cloth and condition them every few months with a leather-care product specifically designed for watch straps, avoiding any cleaners that could cause damage or discoloration.
• Metal bracelets can accumulate grime between the links. Use a microfiber cloth or soft brush with mild soap to clean, then rinse and dry thoroughly
• Rubber or silicone straps are low-maintenance. Rinse with warm water and mild soap after use, especially if exposed to sweat or saltwater
• Nylon straps can often be machine-washed in a protective pouch, but check for manufacturer guidance

As for the watch head, regular Longines certified professional servicing—typically every three to five years—helps preserve movement accuracy and ensures water resistance is intact. Always inspect for signs of wear like fraying, discoloration, or loss of tension. Prompt attention extends the life and comfort of your timepiece.

Yes. With the right tools (spring bar tool, soft cloth), most straps can be changed safely at home.

Measure the distance between the lugs (usually in mm). Common widths are 18, 20, or 22 mm.

Yes, but use extra care. Metal can scratch more easily, so a soft surface and proper tools are important. Installing a metal bracelet can be more challenging than other strap types and may require specific equipment—if in doubt, have it fitted by a Longines certified professional.

Change it based on wear, comfort, or style preference. Some rotate seasonally, others when signs of damage appear.

Not performance directly, but weight and comfort can vary depending on the material. While the strap itself doesn’t change the watch’s water resistance rating, certain materials, like leather, are less suitable for prolonged water exposure, which can impact their durability.