Citizen Eco-Drive Titanium watch bracelet fixed link repair question

[intoodeep1113]

I have had this watch since probably 2007-2008. The movement still works great, but the bracelet has some issues. there are probably 3 places where the links have come partially apart. I imagine the only repair is to drill in from the edge of the link and push a new pin through? Then solder and polish the hole? I bought the watch new for $180, a replacement band is $260, so replacement doesn't make much sense. and its titanium, so there aren't a ton of replacement options that I have seen. If I could get a reasonable bracelet that wouldnt look odd with the face, I would be interested.

It is a Citizen H500 S021260

 

Thanks!

[watchweasol]

Hi In picture two there are arrows on the bracelet which show the direction in which to remove the pin. First thing to do is to determine whether its the pins that are worn or the links are worn/streched  or the holes are worn. An edge on picture of the bracelet wold be usefull,  It may be a combination of all three things as it looks like the bracelet is coming apart.

Cousins uk,  USA  Jules Borler, Esslingers, Timesavers all material houses who will have stock.

[jdm]

1 hour ago, intoodeep1113 said:

I I imagine the only repair is to drill in from the edge of the link and push a new pin through?

Yes. The problem is with the non removable links that have no arrows. It can't be seen, but there is a cap blended which hides the pin. Once replaced, the hole is normally no big deal to keep, no soldering is necessary. If it just the pin then it's not difficult work but better done by a watchmaker, of course the problem is finding one willing to do it for a reasonable cost.

1 hour ago, intoodeep1113 said:

If I could get a reasonable bracelet that wouldnt look odd with the face, I would be interested.

I don't think you have much chances with a generic bracelet also because it would not match the case profile. Considering that the original bracelet had a relatively short life perhaps your best option is a quality strap that can then be easily replaced.

[intoodeep1113]

Yes. I can see "fillings" where the original pin holes were. I'm not afraid to attempt the repair, I imagine I can buy the pins online somewhere and maybe a punch to help the old ones out. 

I also saw this, which seems similar to my band and the price is not too bad.

https://www.mastersintime.com/us/en/citizen-promaster-sky-skyhawk-titanium-link-bracelet-59-t00557.htm

[jdm]

11 hours ago, intoodeep1113 said:

 I imagine I can buy the pins online somewhere and maybe a punch to help the old ones out. 

These are solid straight steel pins which need to be friction fitted, probably you won't find them ready but can be adapted relatively easy from something else.

[yaronof]

Hi, I'm curious how you've resolved this. I also own an Eco-Drive which has been wonderful for over 15 years, but now a pin on the titanium bracelet has broken. Have you found anyone who is willing to repair it? I've only gotten offers to replace the bracelet for huge amounts of money...