Swiss vs Chinese Spring Bar Tool - Which should you get?
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- Опубликовано: 11 май 2020
- Today we will check out the different qualities of manufacture of spring bar tools; Swiss vs Chinese - and which one is right for you?
To check out all of our spring bar tools, and other watch repair tools, please visit: www.longislandwatch.com/Watch...
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Thank you for watching. 
Хобби
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I’ve broken so many spring bar tools that at this point I just use tiny flathead eyeglass screwdrivers.
Works!
Another massively useful tool to have is a magnifying lamp on an arm. That keeps both hands free to change your spring bars. while giving you the best possible view of what you're doing. Helps avoid scratching up your watch. Invaluable.
Bergeron is will worth the money and more... Has helped so many times...
Thanks.
Bergeon*
Not everything that is Swiss is superior, look at their cheese as an example it has holes in it;)
Holes in cheese good...holes in socks bad.
.the .swiss .aren't .very .good .at .making .seikos .either ..
Facts!
LOL
@@_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_- Take Tudor P01 for instance.
You just made an entertaining video about them ... an an honest one. Thanks !
Glad you enjoyed it!
If my cheap tool ever breaks I’ll buy the better one. Thanks for the info Marc! 👍🏻👍🏻🇺🇸
You bet
Good points well made and with honesty. Thank you.
Love these videos !!! Very informative thanks !!!
Glad you like them!
This was an incredibly informative video -- thanks, Marc!
Glad it was helpful!
Living in Myrtle beach, I started Learning on clubs that were hard to hit. I bought a good set of Fitted Ping golf clubs , took lessons and love the game. Your boss gave you terrible advise. I am a single digit handicap player that tries to learn the correct way. Like in golf, I am now learning the art of watch collecting. I am learning from you and others . I am a senior master certified Ford mechanic and know cheap tool being used on important parts is a terrible idea. Love the video. Learning the golf swing is easy with an instructor, fitted clubs to your height, arm length and striking the ball the correct way, and you would be still playing today. I am a new subscriber and love your channel
Thanks John!
My own experience is that most times the tools I've purchased I can see, feel and notice the quality ones are more precise and tend to give me less trouble down the road. The money I have in my watch collection is worth the price of better tools. I also never forget to use masking tape when working on a watch. Even when doing simple bracelet to strap changes, masking tape has saved many lugs from getting marred up. Thanks for the great advice as usual Marc.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks again ! Great tool advice!!!
You bet!
Thanks Marc ! That info helps 🔥
Good presentation, Marc. Since I do IT work on a freelance basis, I've gone through lots of tools and realized there's something of a sliding scale in terms of precision and quality. While I've long since learned to avoid most of the cheap stuff (yeah, especially screwdrivers), some of the mid-priced gear comes within striking distance if the high-buck gear. Of course, working on the innards of a MacBook Air isn't the same deal as dissecting a Valjoux 7750, but it's not crazy-far-off...it's too damned easy to screw up either one. 😁
Once again, useful knowledge that I can apply immediately, because while I have a high tech engineering background, that helps me appreciate your detailed explanation, watches are a growing hobby and the tools I own are not really suitable. Thanks for the advice. Phil.
Glad it was helpful!
Appreciate the review, “you get what you pay for” that means quality & longevity.. stay Safe Marc & thanks for good advice.
Thank you
Thanks Marc. Interesting video as usual. Keep safe during lockdown my friend. Best regards.😺🤗
Thanks, you too!
The Bergeon 6767-f changed my life. I wasn't used to inserting a spring bar tool on to the shoulders of a spring bar, pulling it whilst pulling at a strap or bracelet and the spring bar just coming off. No repeated attempts. No tongue hanging out of the corner of my mouth. No sweating and no swearing.
That's what I used to think changing a watch strap just was before I bought a Bergeon. Haha.
The pusher tip on the Chinese tool broke on mine. Glad you sell replacement tips.
I used to use free spring bar tools that comes with some of the straps I purchased from amazon before. It was better than nothing, but they would bend and/or break. Bending was actually worse because I would still try to use it and end up scratching up the watch. I eventually broke through all the free tools and ended up purchasing bergeon. It's made spring bar changes much easier and it's been holding up great. I received a spring bar tool from Omega and Bergeon works better even that in my opinion. Definitely worth the purchase.
Thanks for sharing.
Great video, I have a Bergeron that is at least 10 years old, looks great. I want the blue turtle Islander! On a jubilee bracelet.
Wait!
Excellent video! 👍
Thank you very much!
I have owned a number of cheap spring bar tools and I have bent all of the tips!
Yup, I know it.
That cheaper tool is an imitation of the Bergeon 6111, which like this one, has three tips rather than two. My next springbar tool will be a Bergeon 6111.
Some tools like this and case knives and screwdrivers are worth investing money in buying higher quality. Others are fine in the cheap version. All depends on how you use them.
thanks for the note!
Great video , where are the new Islanders made they look great , what Country is the case made and where are they assembled?
Hey Mark, great video, as always thanks for them they are a great resource! I have a 20K dollar question for you. If I got the Bergeon 6767-F and got a 3mm replacement fork tip (6767-A) for the Bergeon 6767-S will it fit into the threads for the 6767-F? Could you check for us. If it does than theoretically you only have to buy the 6767-F and the 6767-A replacement fork and you have a three in one!?!
Hello Marc.
Tools, can't have too many of them.
I do a lot of scrapping and like my tools, Würth screwdrivers for one, Stanley antivibe hammer not cheap but well worth it. Quality may cost a bit more to buy but then it will serve you for a long time to come.
Thanks for sharing
I’m used to just using small screwdrivers or a pocket knife. Recently I acquired two cheap ones. One in a Harbor Freight watch tool kit, one free with an eBay bracelet. Even those are a marked improvement. Once those start to go then I will go for good ones.
Now to go look at tools on your site.
Thanks!
I have a low end spring bar tool, and I recently got the S. That was a mistake because the fork tip is too thick for my watches. Also, the pusher pin bent when I was sizing a bracelet. This was the first time I had used it.
Pushers can always bend, if the pin in the watch is stuck.
I've owned the Bergeon 6767 for about 4 years now and it's still going strong. I don't even need to replace the tips yet, but I do plan to upgrade to the 7767 possibly. For anyone looking for information on the tips for the Bergeon, the 6767-A tip is (usually) for leather straps, the 6767-AF is for metal bracelets, and the 6767-BF is for pushing out spring bars via a drilled lug or adjusting the microadjustments on a bracelet. Definitely worth the little bit of extra money up front. Goes a long way.
Thanks for the info.
@@islandwatch Of course! Sometimes the really pointed tips (6767-AF) can mess up a nice leather strap or the watch case itself if you're not careful. I learned this myself haha
I have been watching your RUclips videos for a couple of months now. And I've learned a TON! Thanks for your efforts to educate the populace. I am interested in learning more about movements. I've deduced (from your videos) that some (high end) manufacturers, like Rolex, make pretty much everything for their watches, and some large manufacturers (like Seiko) make many varieties of movements for their broad range of offerings. While other manufacturers just make watch movements and sell them to other companies who insert them into their watches. Some movements support certain complications but not others, etc., etc., etc. I'm intrigued by this 'heart' of a watch. Can you teach us a little more about the movement strategy/philosophy? Seems to be similar to options on a car (V8 vs V6, gas vs diesel, bluetooth vs appleplay, etc.) in some respects? I'm still very perplexed however, what do you think? You briefly refer to the various movements when you describe a watch, but don't really explore how a particular movement differs from another movement which might be used by the same manufacturer but in a different watch model.
Not having quality tools can turn a hobbie into a nightmare.😎
True.
Very informative as I am studying to be Horologist......
Good advice. When my cheap springbar tool breaks, I will buy quality.
Right on
Bergeon S09 9 PC 109 bucks. Love em. Still setting up my little shop and there is no substitute for quality. I spend a bit more but they're there when I need em. No 2nd guessing.
True; thank you!
I have a Bergeon spring bar tool where the threaded tip would never stay tight in place. The tool does feel nice in hand though.
I agree. The fix for that is: Get some purple Loctite 222MS for the threads from Amazon. It's the mild strength. It does a great job of gumming up the threads in a good way so the tip stays put, but removable when needed. I have multiple Bergeon spring bar tools and the Loctite works well for them.
Barracuda2213 thanks for the tip! definitely gonna give it a try.
Loctite is your friend.
ptfe white plumbers tape will keep threads tight.
I been using toothpicks for years and they dont scratch. Great video must be the only one ever made on this subject.
Great point; I've seen many pros use a toothpick.
Can I use the "F" size tool for skx spring bar?
I only have a few watches and this thing has justified its. OST!
As far as micro screwdrivers, I still have my Craftsman 5 piece set that I bought over 20 years ago when they use to make them in the US. I have sons now who are young men, a fathers tools + sons who like to tinker, = tools all over the place but the place they're suppose to be.
I have a Breitling Chrono 44, comes on a bracelet. I already have several exotic straps I plan to use on it, as well. Should I buy the Bergeon 6767-S or 6767-F, or both???? Which is for leather, and which is for the bracelet? Also, any other options you might recommend? Sorry for the basic questions...just getting started. Thank you!
Bought a cheap pack of tools, many work ok, but oh yes the screwdrivers are rubbish. top info Marc. My Bergeon is great and like you prefer the fine one.
Thanks for sharing
Trying to find out where the Islander watch is made ?
I’ve had so many cheap spring bar tools break. Especially the small forks
So true
The difference becomes more significant w/ tools that require greater precision and reliability IMO. But that's also where Bergeon's gotten it's reputation for steep prices. Fortunately well made tools tend to last, you can often find quality tools at decent prices 2nd hand through one of the forums or an established ebay watch tools dealer.
Truth!
Proving the old adage ‘you (mostly) get what you pay for’. 😎
Gonna have to agree with you on the tools !! If I might ask an unrelated question, I'd appreciate your opinion. Have been wearing a new SRP779J1 for 1 week. It's averaging about 3 seconds slow per day. 21 seconds over a period of 1 week (Sunday midnight to midnight from a Time.is hack). I think this is pretty darn good,...what do you think? Thanks in advance,...it's my first mechanical.
Sounds excellent!
Cool vid
Thanks.
I think both choices are fine
Obviously the more expensive one would/should feel nicer when you use it
If the tip for the cheaper one gets dull or breaks, just replace the tip - the whole idea behind making something cheap is you can simply replace them
I think the wide tip is supposed to be used for straps as it can slip in easy without damaging the leather, the narrow fork has to be used for bracelets as the wide won't fit in the slot.
I got one that has both, and ordered a pin tip with it in case I need one, but I find I just use the forks 90% of the time as only 2 of my watches have drilled lugs, and you can use the pin tip without screwing it into the tool anyways.
Right!
I guess it depends on how often one changes bands. Me? I can't remember the last time I changed watch bands. I just use the one that comes with the watch or when I order a watch, I will choose a band at that time.
Daily :)
I learned this the hard way, I bought very cheap spring bar tool (2USD) and the small fork does not screw down tight, so it can wiggle around. And the hole for the fork to screw in is not at the center. I ended up scratch the lug of Oris 65 and also damaging a bit of the strap in the process. You know, I'm a guy who likes his watch to stay new, soooo........ damn it hurts.
Anyway, I also got a question, the big fork of Bergeon, is it good for leather strap? I kind of get the impression that the big fork on that Chinese tool can make job easier.
That flat fork is easier for leather, yup.
Are the superior Swiss screwdriver tips, bars, etc compatible with cheaper screwdrivers and spring bar tools?
usually they can be
Nice
I've owned a few of the Chinese ones and they always break under pressure. Spend the money and get the Swiss made spring bar tools. Worth every penny!
Thanks.
Waiting for that blue turtle with a Jubilee or Angus on it.....I freeze framed just to get a good look at it. Hurry up!
Great video Mark you get what you pay for.... Is the Blue turtle in production or is it available for purchase right now?
Not available
I have the Bergeron 6767-S, would the fine forks fit it, or do I need to get a 6767-F?
Yeah, same threads.
Long Island Watch Thanks
They say buy quality tools. They will last a lifetime.
True
Well, kinda. You're still gonna have to replace the fork tips every year or so, they dull off even if hardened.
Good and true maxim!
I broke my cheap Chinese springbar tool. The pin end snapped off while I was using it to take links out of a metal G-Shock brand. Not replaceable on mine, so this looks good to me.
Bergeon, nuff said,,,,
Yup
Unrelated to this but is it just me or are seiko pin and collars really hard to remove for bracelet sizing?
Hiya,any type of tooling the golden rules normally apply. If it too cheap to be true then be it on your own head? Cheap steel etc.
True
Have you ever done a watch and learn about watch winders, and why the the difference between the spins a day, and why you can make them spin left or right?
If you haven't, please do.
Thank you.
I have done about "do you need one".
@@islandwatch when ever you get the time for it, i would appreciate it. Thank you for replying.
Quality tools are always a plus. Yes, they cost more, but you "only cry once," as they say.
Right off the bat; the bergeon spring bar tool seems to be more solidly made and machining is a notch above the chinese one.
In my experience, the tip from the chinese ones always break off or bent when force is applied to a bracelet pin.
Yes, similar here.
I got free set of tools when buying straps from Aliexpress, they have worked perfectly without any issues for the last 6 months. 22$ is overpriced unless you change straps everyday.
HEY!!!! Island SKX model...Black PVD(or whatever but not polished) case...Black Face, Black Crow, Black bezel. Yea. Yea.
Thx
China alternative to Bergeon is the Ruihua... not the other anonymous China watchmaker tools... Bergeon lasting but getting more expensive these days. Ruihua much cheaper... not bad. I have both Bergeon and Ruihua.
Thanks for sharing.
Why do spring bar tools have a V notch instead of a U notch?
V shapes attach better to different diameters
I am having some serious trouble removing my fat spring bars on my JDM skx009j. I have gone through two or three spring bar tools. I have also buggered up my lugs on the case as well? I’m out of options , any help from anyone is appreciated!?
Use a butter knife.
Long Island Watch worth a shot I guess. Thx
Swiss anytime ! 👍 Cheers 👍
Always!
I have several, still mostly use dental floss though, lol
LOL
Listen to what Mark says. I myself have broken at least 2 Chinese spring bar tools with several tips and one German tool that was supposed to be superior - what a waste of money. Only the Bergeon does the job flawlessly and since 2 years I haven't noticed a sign of wear. Totally worth of its higher price.
Thank you!
I have a cheap $1 Spring Bar Tool from China. Bought it from eBay. I bought like 6 of them and I had them for years. I have 3 left now. The other 3 tips wore out and I threw them for recycling. They don't have the knurling grip so I tied the bottom part with a rubber band to provide grip. I don't get the recommendation to get an overpriced Swiss tool. I guess its not for me. I never had an issue with them. I got a 26$ spring bar for the solid end link watches with no drill lugs and they were frustrating to use. They never worked 95% of the time. It was a waste of my money. I have them lying around. I never use them. FYI I'm a bracelet guy and I have a couple of bracelets for each of my watches.
In the future, I know I have to get that overpriced bergeon spring bar tool for the solid end link when I get my bb58. Until then I'm happy with my $1 tool.
Whatever works for you
Every $20 watch strap I've bought off Amazon has a springbar tool included with it. Kind of hard to justify a $15-20 springbar tool by itself.
Until you use one.
I bought my first springbartool from cheapestnatostraps.com, two years ago. Maybe I should replace it with a Bergeon?
Maybe when / if it breaks.
Just bought a Bergeon 6768-S After watching this I am afraid I should have bought the 6767-F. Lol
LOL
The Swiss tools make all of the difference in the world! It is so much easier to remove a spring bar. You save so much time! Certain corners should not be cut.
Movement holders. The cheap ones suck. Your movement will pop out. Buy the bergeon 4040. Drink the coolaid. Its delicious.
Yum!
I’m a Bergeon 7767-F man. Worth. Every. Penny.
Nice, me too!
can 7767-F be used for seiko skx
Don’t forget tweezers don’t cheap out on them I had cheap tweezers before watchmaking school and inventing in good tweezers it’s worth every penny
I agree on screwdriver as long as you sharpen the blades to fit the screws that is the key!!! Because regardless what you pay on screwdriver without getting the blades ready to use it will cause damage to the movement
Definitely on tweezers, go quality.
I’ve gone through literally at least a dozen non-Swiss tools ...the Bergeon has lasted and lasted.
Yup
Q?????? why is there a 3minute 22 secound long you tube advert befor your video ??????
I always buy quality tools. I’d rather buy only one or two a week, every week for a few months. In the end you have a superior toolset at which seems like less money as you bought it slowly. I have some tools made many decades ago in Sweden, Finland, England and Germany and they will outlast me.
Cheap tools (any tools) are, generally speaking, made of poor quality Chinese steel but what’s worse is it isn’t hardened nor tempered and the stuff just bends.
lol i got vincero watches ad , they say they have 3x quality lol
Hmmmmm
.where .is .the .bergeon .spring .bar .tool .made .?
Switzerland.
@@islandwatch .thank .you .!
The only tool that has broken on me is a Bergeon.
Oh nooooo
You can buy cheap many times or a quality one once...
True
New Islanders?
Aren't drilled lug holes right up there with sliced bread though?!
LOL
I've grown sick and tired of Chinese made low quality junk. If given the opportunity, I always opt for other countries of origin.
OK
it's frustrating to deal with task and tool
I have owned both a $20 Burgeon and a $2 cheapy. For easy tasks like changing spring bars there is no difference what so ever, and for difficult tasks like sizing a seiko folded bracelet both get absolutely destroyed. The Burgeon feels nicer in hand but when it comes to getting the job done it doesn't do anything better than the cheapy tools.
I don't totally agree. Change a few hundred and look at the tool.
Almost every strap you order on Amazon and ebay now days come with a free tool
free is not always good, but it's free!
Years ago I did the mistake of using a Chinese tool on my Tudor BB when changing the straps and left some marks on the watch until I got the Bergeon tool, a much better tool really worth it. I also bought the Bergon screwdrivers, best investment after Bitcoin :D
Sorry about that.
I forgot. Maybe you’ll like this video about golf :) ruclips.net/video/Z4w7H48tBS8/видео.html
I'll check it out.
I only use Bergeon tools and other high quality items, "I found the cheaper knock off broke on the first job" and left a bitter taste, never again..
Having owned many tools and expensive watches (just my opinion). The spring bar tool makes no difference. Yes some are better feeing than others, but at the end of the day, you’re literally just changing a spring bar. My 5 dollar Chinese eBay tool has lasted just as long as my Bergeron.
Having used both, I can say a quality tool is worth it.
I will pay more for just about anything NOT made in China! Yes, I own the Bergeon...
How about a good push pin tool. The cheap ones suck.
They will all bend; but a Bergeon will be your best.