How do I detach the watch strap from my watch?

Replacing or removing the strap of your watch can be a simple task ifyou know how to approach it and use the right tools. In this WatchXL news, we discuss how to detach the watch strap from your watch considering the different types of watch straps: leather, steel and silicone. At WatchXL, we have men's watches and women's watches with different kinds of watch straps, it is useful if you know how to remove a watch strap to replace it.

Watch straps with different connections

Watches usually have two types of connectors: round and straight connectors. You don't always read this in the watch's specifications, but you can generally tell when you look at the watch.

- Round connection: This type of connection has a curved shape and is often found on sporty or casual watches. It often includes silicone straps attached to the round case.

Watch strap with round connection

- Straight connection: This connection is straight and is commonly used in formal or classic watches.

Watch strap with straight connection

The difference between these connections lies in how the strap is attached to the watch. Round connections are often slightly more difficult to remove as they require more precision. In steel watch bands with links, the watch band is often attached to the case with an additional semi-circular link.

Step-by-step instructions for detaching the watch strap

A. Leather watch strap

(Tools needed: a small screwdriver or a watch tool)

Push pin as it is in the watch strap

Steps:
1. Look at how the strap is attached to the case. Often with push pins (pin with a spring in it) and sometimes with a screw. Look at the back of the strap and gently push the pushpin aside.
2. Remove the pin: Use the screwdriver or watch tool to gently push the pin inwards. This will release the strap from the connector.
3. Pull the strap out: Once the pin is removed, gently pull the leather strap out of the socket.

B. Steel Watch Strap

(Supplies: A watch tool or a small screwdriver)

Link strap with round connection pieces

Steps:
1. Find the pins: Steel straps also often use push pins (sometimes screws). If there are small screws on the sides of the strap, loosen them very carefully with a screwdriver. If they are push pins, push the pin back in with a small screwdriver or a strap tool. It works best if you push in one side of the pin, take it out of the hole and then push in the other side of the pin and take it out of the hole as well (For straps with links that attach to a rounded watch case, the last link is usually half-round.). Be sure to keep these pins safe as they help secure the strap to the case.
2. Remove the strap: Pull the strap out of the case connection once the pins have been removed.

Tip: Want to shorten the strap? Here's how to do it!

C. Silicone Watchstrap

(Supplies: A watch tool or your hands)

Steps:
1. Again, check how the band attaches to the case: Silicone bands often have a pin or quick release system.
2. Use the quick release: If you have a quick release system, press the button on the back of the strap and pull the strap out of the socket at the same time.
3. With a pin: If there is a pin, follow the same steps as for the leather strap to remove it.

Watch with silicone strap

Quick Release System

A quick release system is a handy feature that makes removing the watch strap easier. Instead of a pin or screw, this strap has a small lever on the back. Pressing this lever releases the strap from the socket without the need for tools.

Watch strap with quick release system

Steps to detach a quick release watch strap:
1. Press the lever: Find the lever on the back of the strap.
2. Pull out the strap: While pressing the lever, gently pull the strap out of the socket.

Detaching the strap from your watch is a simple task if you know how to do it. However, if you find it difficult or are unsure, a jeweler can easily do this for you in no time!