Push-in button unscrew

Hi Guys,

After using intensively for the last 8 years my Pilot Laureus Sport for Good Foundation (1740/2500), the top push-in button of the chronograph unscrewed and got lost.
Is this normal? I can feel the bottom one also goes around, but doesn't unscrew.
Retailer told me I had to send it back to Switzerland just so they can screw me a new one.. is this normal? In 8 years I've already sent it to Switzerland 2 times for service....

Other question: What is the best strap for long hard use? I've had my 2nd alligator strap but it just keeps getting bad.

Cheers!

Re the Chrono pusher it happens to some but is not necessarily a disaster. Re the strap, your personal chemistry, where you live can both determine how long a strap lasts. If your chemistry is wrong and you live in a humid atmosphere then the strap will deteriorate quicker than if you are not a sweaty person and live in a dry temperate climate.

Welcome to the forum and congratulations on your great watch. I am lucky enough to have one as well.

The chronopusher experience you are having is not normal. It happens rarely and is relatively straightforward to repair. But this is best done via bring your watch to a nearby IWC Boutique or Authorized retailer. Although straightforward I understand it is a little bit more than just screwing it back on.

Leather straps do degrade over time. There is a very nice steel bracelet that you can get for the Ref 3717 model you own. Your watch is obviously very well worn by all the bumps and scratches.

It is indeed more than just screwing it back on.
The movement and encasing ring have to be removed from the case first. Then new pusher, new gasket and new washer (if it's missing), loctite on the thread of the screw, silicon on the body of screw and proper tightening. Your problem usually occurs if the watchmaker greases by accident the thread of the pusher screw.