Swapping bracelet for leather band

Is there any trick to removing the bracelet from a mark xvii? I tried with a standard pin tool at the opening on the underside of the bracelet but have not been able to move the pins. I've got one scratch on the bracelet already. I don't mind taking it in where I had it sized / put on originally, but wanted to make sure I'm not missing anything before I make the trip. Thanks!
Andy.

Hi Andy,

No real tricks but the bracelet just fits very tight to the case and lugs. My tool has a 'fork' on one end and a round pin-shaped tip on the other end. I use the latter to firt push back one end of the spring bar, then I try to do the same to the other end of the same spring bar.... often the first released end jumps back in position, hence start all over again.... but you should succeed!

To protect the lugs you can apply some cello-tape to protect it!

Good luck,

BB

Thanks; I was trying the forked end of the tool. I will try and pin end and give it a shot. Tape's a good idea (given my expertise) as well!

To avoid scratches from the actual springbars on the top of the lugs, try extract the springbar towards the underside of the watch.

I got a scratch on one of my gold watches when the springbar snapped upwards and scratched the top of the lug. Maybe the closer piece of the Mark XVII will prevent this. Let us know how it goes.

Success! Thanks for the helpful hints. Couple of minor scratches but not significant. Actually noticed minor scratches from the bracelet on the polished portion of the LPP case-back (from contact when the watch was not being worn I guess). But, I like to rotate all my watches so wear and tear is inevitable I suppose. Thanks again for the help.
Andy.