Breguet Tradition 7027: Quick Release Spring Bar Conversion

tempocalypse · 2023-11-05T10:04:50Z

Discover how tempocalypse modified his Breguet Tradition 7027 for quick-release spring bars. Get expert tips on tools, risks, and enhancing strap versatility.

tempocalypse

WPS member · Breguet forum

24 replies7702 views5 photos

tempocalypse's detailed account of modifying his Breguet Tradition 7027 to accept quick-release spring bars offers invaluable insights for collectors seeking greater strap versatility. His hands-on experience, complete with tool recommendations and cautionary advice, addresses a common frustration with fixed screw bars on high-end timepieces. This modification allows for effortless strap changes, enhancing the daily wearability and personal expression of a classic Breguet.

Although the black alligator strap the watch came with was nice enough, I really wanted to get rid of the fixed screw bars in favour of quick release spring bars.

The bars are screwed into the case with the threading on the lug opposite where the screw head is. Additionally the bars are secured with an additional screw on the bottom of the lug. My initial attempt didn't go too well, I managed to remove one of the securing screws but failed to get decent purchase on any of the others. I thought I would leave it there and try to get the boutique to do it for me. However, since there's no boutique where I live and since I got a little too impatient to wait till December when I could visit one, I tried again with the thought that maybe the screwdrivers I used weren't sized correctly. This time I succeeded using a set of Bergeon screwdrivers; 0.8mm for the securing screw and 1.2mm for the main screw bar. The gold screws are very soft so its imperative the right size is used, I caused some minor damage to one of the main screws trying to use the 1.0mm on it but no big deal as I shan't be using it ever again. But if you're doing this yourself you might be well advised to go a little slower than I did and double check the screwdriver head is fitting into the screw slot snugly.

Anyway I now have a Breguet with essentially drilled lugs. Easy to use with regular spring bars with or even better with quick release bars. The open lug holes don't look much worse off than when they had a screw to my eyes at least and I'm quite looking forward to being able to swap straps around on this. The navy matte gator from Delugs looked perfect on the Tradition, I also tried the Ischia green gator though it didn't look quite as well suited as it did on the GO Panograph. In any case I plan to acquire a few more straps, perhaps a Saffiano black and a classic brown gator to start with. Maybe something a little more adventurous too eventually.

Key Points from the Discussion

The original screw bar system, while secure, is frustrating for frequent strap changes due to its finicky nature and the risk of damaging soft gold screws.
Converting to quick-release spring bars allows for tool-free, daily strap changes, significantly enhancing the joy of ownership for those who prioritize versatility.
Using correctly sized Bergeon screwdrivers (0.8mm for securing screws, 1.2mm for main screw bars) is crucial to avoid damaging the soft gold screws during removal.
A potential long-term concern with using spring bars in place of screw bars is the risk of wearing down the internal threads of the lugs, which could impact the ability to re-install OEM pins or affect resale value.
Some collectors prioritize maximizing current ownership enjoyment over potential future resale value, accepting the modification as a personal preference.
Breguet's newer Classique Dame 8068 model features fixed bars with a quick-change strap system, suggesting the brand may be exploring more user-friendly strap options in the future.

The Discussion

blau

Nov 5, 2023

I have been doing my best to be a good boy and treat the gold screws well even while swapping straps on my Breguets and it gets very frustrating. I've been trying to console myself with the thought that Breguet's way is high quality and high security compared to regular spring bars but I can easily imagine giving in. Edit: oh and also I think your Tradition looks GREAT that green delugs strap! You should give it another go

BigFatPauli

Nov 5, 2023

The strap looks, great, however!

tempocalypse

Nov 5, 2023

from what I can see the spring bars on these straps fit fairly well without moving around too much. Additionally the end of the bar doesn't go all the way through the hole on the end that has threads on it. Either way I can understand someone not wanting to do this though as there is still the danger of wear eventually. But for me personally I would never go back to the screw bars. The question of damaged threads in the case of resale is still there but I've yet to sell a watch I've bought As su

tempocalypse

Nov 5, 2023

the quick change setup does facilitate changing on a whim though so I would certainly try it from time to time. Incidentally the new Classique Dame 8068 has fixed bars and a quick change system where the strap hooks onto the bar. And comes included with 3 straps. Perhaps this system will proliferate to other models some day with more strap options? I think I would still stick with what I did though for the sake of aftermarket options.

Watchonthewrist

Nov 5, 2023

Must be very careful when doing this. Luckily it worked out but its not something you do multiple times in a short period. Looks great on the navy strap but i prefer the green one 👌🏻😘

tempocalypse

Nov 5, 2023

And yeah with the quick change spring bars I can now change daily if I wish without trouble. If sticking with the original screw bars I would have made a single change and left it for years most likely.

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Breguet forum with 24 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →

Breguet Tradition 7027: Quick Release Spring Bar Conversion

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

More from this Forum