Unusual Timex 'lugs'

[RichJensen]

Some Timex cases from the 70s have these stamped loops that the watch band basically crimps around.

Does anyone have any tips for what to do when the band is missing?

My wife and I like these funky designs, and I'd like to figure out how to attach a band to the case.

[oldhippy]

From what I can see to me it looks like one of those watch cases that have a fitted braclet this is part of the case. Could you show us the back of the watch.  Jersey Mo is the expert on here when it comes to timex. 

[JerseyMo]

These integrated bracelets are not unique to Timex.  All pose the same issue of what to do when the original breaks or needs replacement. Issue is the maker has long ago stopped producing them and no one has a generic replacement.

There are two solutions:

(1) repurpose the watch into a key fob or other such bobble that can hang on a chain. Or get creative and make a custom bracelet.

(2) strip out the movement and use as a donor to get another run if possible.

Ok there is a third which is to keep buying build lots of vintage ladies Timex until you find a suitable replacement.  Mind you will have mountains of junky old watches and less money in your pocket.  To be honestly it is not worth the effort with ladies Timex since there is no value to them from a resellers point of view.   

 

 

[jdm]

40 minutes ago, JerseyMo said:

There are two solutions:

Plus a third one, with two variations:

a. Pay good money to a strapmaker Craftsman

b. Spend same money or a little more In tools and materials and make or modify it yourself

 

[RichJensen]

On 8/26/2021 at 2:42 PM, JerseyMo said:

Or get creative and make a custom bracelet.

That's kind of the direction I'm leaning.

I'm not good enough at this to feel comfortable reselling the watches I fix up, and I like the funky shape of this one.

[RichJensen]

This is what I ended up doing.

I had a spare band just the right width and cheap enough to experiment with.

I slit the loop that holds the spring bar and tucked the lug down into the pocket formed where the top layer of the band wraps around to the back.

Then I used a leather needle & threaded a loop several times around the metal bar on the lug, cinched it tight, tied it off and then superglued the band to the lug & case for added security.

Probably should've cleaned the case & crystal first, but c'est la vie.

[JerseyMo]

2 hours ago, RichJensen said:

This is what I ended up doing.

I had a spare band just the right width and cheap enough to experiment with.

I slit the loop that holds the spring bar and tucked the lug down into the pocket formed where the top layer of the band wraps around to the back.

Then I used a leather needle & threaded a loop several times around the metal bar on the lug, cinched it tight, tied it off and then superglued the band to the lug & case for added security.

Probably should've cleaned the case & crystal first, but c'est la vie.

creativity is always a good thing.