Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Strap change - How To?

[edgematic1]

Since this is a topic that raises a lot of questions I have decided to post a how to do it here. It is copied from the Timetapestry blog.

I had always intended to get round to doing this and I am pleased to note that another kind soul has done it and is kind enough to allow me to reproduce his AP strap changing images. so first off, credit where credit is due to Wirinhar on Horomundi AP forums.

Of course this process is much simplified with a tool from AP, which to my knowledge they don't give or sell but similar tools may be available perhaps, but if you don't have that tool than using 2 screwdrivers will do the trick but that may take a lot of elbow grease if the loctite is uh... tight. So the images cropped & revised by me and the raphmeisters instructions and advice on changing the shoes(read straps) on the Royal Oak Offshore

Step 1: Get your tools ready... These will include 1.6mm (some advocate 2.0mm) screwdriver (1 or 2 depending), the holder(not the right term but its gonna be referenced as that, toothpick, tweezers, clean area that you won't lose screws easily in. (google "bergeon precision tools" & "Bergeon 6730 Bracelet Screw Holding Base" to find what u need... Possible choices Bergeon screwdrivers 6895's, 6896's and 6901's here and the stopper (bracelet adjustment) here) Potentially instead of the holder, a mini bench vice and cleverly positioned holders for a screwdriver could do the trick... If the loctite is tight, a little indirect warming with a hairdryer may be necessary but don't fry the watch yuh (do this at your own risk)

Step 2: Hold er steady... Put one end of the screw on the holder so that it holds the screw in place... You do this cause AP screws have a female and male end that screw together in the middle

Step 3: 2 screws are better than 1... Use the screwdriver to unscrew the top screw whilst the bottom is held by the holder

Step 4: Remove em screws... Gently take out the small screw bit with a pair of tweezers

Step 5: Remove the er... other screw... U don't have to use a toothpick yuh as long as you get somethin that can poke out the other screw part

& VOILA! Magic... the strap is off

fine naked body... uhm watch body that is... best to use the same screws for the same plots

Step 6: Put on the new strap... Put one end of the screw in...

... rest it on the holder, make sure its steady and screw it back in

Step 7: Simply unscrew the buckle

... and extract the metal pin holding the deployant buckle in place...

QED

Step 8: Enjoy your lovely new strap on your gorgeous Royal Oak Offshore

[Rolexman]

Cool. Never knew these babies were so difficult to change.

Thanks for the nice tutorial!

[Smab]

Great topic, and timing, as I am waiting for a Ti Montoya, and an APBANDS Deep Ocean Blue Croc strap to go with it:-)

[Watchmeister]

Great post and a must read for anyone who didn't already know how to change the strap. I have changed a bunch and picked up a new trick. Use a stationary screwdriver on one side. Thanks.

[MADRED7]

Only thing ... you need the screwpull-holder (stand) unless you have a third hand

Theo

[Inertiadrifter]

I'm assuming that would work on all AP ROO case?

Correct me if I'm wrong.

Cuz

I just got JBB and wanted to change straps cuz the rep strap flat out stinks!!!

[FDG]

Great and safe tutorial. Lovely watch, too bad my wrists can't handle this beast