[jazz57]

Here's a brief tutorial for those unsure as to how to change the strap on some Glycine models such as the Airman 17 and my D24 09 that use screw bars rather than the more common spring bar. I couldn't really find a good explanation online so thought I'd write one.

If you examine the watch you'll see what appear to be screws on the outside of both lugs:

It turns out only one side is actually a screw. The other is a screw head attached to a bar. Taken apart, they look like this:

By convention (I believe) the bar is inserted from the left and the screw on the right. At least that's the way it was on my watch. To take the bars apart requires the use of two screwdrivers simultaneously, one on each side.

The screw heads on D24 are 3mm wide. Try to find the closest fit you can, as too small a screwdriver can damage the slots. Also try to get the shortest driver you can as it's not that easy to hold in one hand while turning. One slip is all it takes to scratch the lug bar. (You may want to apply some protective tape the first time you try it.)

Finally be careful not to lose the screws--they fall out at the first opportunity.

Once the screws are out you can use a paperclip to push the bar out and then it's a simple matter to insert the new strap and re-tighten the screws.

It's much easier to do the second time, so don't rush and you'll be on your way to changing the strap as frequently as you desire.

Incidentally the screw bar dimensions for the D24 09 are:

length (with screw attached): 32mm
bar diameter: 1.8mm
screw head diameter: 3.0mm

I was able to purchase a second set for my watch from About Time in Dana Point. Thanks, Holly!

 

[spunwell]

That's a great explanation on how to work with those pesky screw bars. Another thing I find helpful is to strap the watch down to a book or something before removing the screw bars. This makes it easier to change the strap without damaging the screw heads.

 

[jazz57]

That's a great explanation on how to work with those pesky screw bars. Another thing I find helpful is to strap the watch down to a book or something before removing the screw bars. This makes it easier to change the strap without damaging the screw heads.

Good addition, spunwell. I strap mine in the case it came with while I'm working on the screws. It would be good to have a couple of more hands, but it works.

The screw heads are made from a relatively soft metal so don't over tighten. It's also not necessary since the bar can rotate freely with the strap. Daily wear shouldn't loosen it.

 

[PsiFox]

Elliot Brown use the same idea for their watches. Their motto is "uncivil engineering". In fact they are so strong there is a video of one of the owners hangin of a crane hook, only held on by the watch.

 

[jazz57]

Elliot Brown use the same idea for their watches. Their motto is "uncivil engineering". In fact they are so strong there is a video of one of the owners hangin of a crane hook, only held on by the watch.

It's a rugged design alright; just a little unnerving to work with the first time when you have a finely polished case and are anxious to avoid the slightest scratch.

 

[PsiFox]

It's a rugged design alright; just a little unnerving to work with the first time when you have a finely polished case and are anxious to avoid the slightest scratch.

Even more so when it's plated.
Actually as of yesterday I have one highly polished and one gunmetal grey pvd.

 

[jazz57]

Airman 17 (Ref. 3865) Screw Bar?

By the way: Does anyone have an olde Airman 17 with the 3865 reference number? This watch also has screwbars, unlike the newer 3917.

I'd be interested to know the dimensions on that bar (i.e. screw diameter, length and thickness). I wonder if they're interchangeable with the D24.

 

[Myke]

thanks for posting this. appreciated

 

[andrema]

Psst...you may want to get one of these (Screw Removing Block) they work wonders.

http://www.esslinger.com/search.php?search_query=screw+removing+block&Search=GO