Aquatimer links in bracelet

HI All,

I have a 2006 Aquatimer in stainless steel with a stainless steel bracelet.
Whilst adjusting the bracelet one of the link pivots (the spring loaded ‘button’ in the strap that you press in to remove the bar which then releases the link) sprung out of the hole and broke into two pieces making it un-useable. I returned it to the jewellers that I purchased it from who said they would get me a new link.
Is this a rare occurrence or is there a chance this could happen while I have the watch on? My concern is that if a link does this while the watch is on my wrist, I may lose it totally. Are the links pretty sturdy usually or is there some way I can ‘check’ them?

Thanks for any advice
Paul

Aquatimer links in bracelet

I have got no experience with your generation of Aquatimer bracelets. I have the older and younger sisters, GST AT and a Deep Two.

I never experienced anything like that.

Well, my experience with the Deep Two is limited because it is relatively new. But the GST I have been wearing for years. And I am wearing it in rough conditions with a lot of vibrations (like when riding a bike). At the GST AT I exchanged the bracelet with the strap many times.

I guess that in your bracelet there was a unfortunate manufacturing defect. This is annoying but it will very likely never happen again.

Best regards
Andreas

Aquatimer links in bracelet

Thanks Andreas,

Has anybody else had this experience?

I have written to IWC too in the hope they can shed reassure me that this is unlikely to happen again.

thanks

Paul

Lightning never strikes twice?.......nt

Lightning never strikes twice?.......nt

This is what I am asking, are these tiny bracelet spring loaded pivots usually tough?

When I push some of the pivots in when I alter links, they dont 'click' back into place when I push the pin back through. I have to push them again to bring them back flush.

Its only the thought of losing my watch that makes my teeth itch!

Try using ......

a spot of light watch lubricant on them...I have had the same trouble and found this works. alternatively have your bracelet professionally stripped and cleaned.

I doubt if you will experience loosing the bracelet as they are very sturdy

Try using ......

I spoke with IWC today. They are really helpful and am going to send in the strap for inspection. Its my pride and joy and I would rather be safe than sorry.

thanks for your advice

Paul