Fixed bars conversion?

[apandersP]

Hello. Again

I’m still looking for a new watch. I like the old staybrite cases, especially the flat bezel ones… the issue is that I wanna use it with a bead of rice bracelet, but many of them is with fixed lugs. Is it possible to covert to spring bars? I heard something about some of the fixed lugs are just a tube that’s in between the holes, and not necessarily welded or soldered in place? (Is that the type in the photos?)  Then my thoughts is just to cut the ones out? 
 

Anyone got any experience with that kind of issue? 

 

Edited March 19 by apandersP

[praezis]

You could remove the middle of the fixed bar and leave short pieces at each horn. Then use negative spring bars.

However you will considerable lower the value of the watch doing that.

Frank

[apandersP]

28 minutes ago, praezis said:

You could remove the middle of the fixed bar and leave short pieces at each horn. Then use negative spring bars.

However you will considerable lower the value of the watch doing that.

Frank

That’s a good idea. You think that would be strong enough? 
 

I don’t understand why I would lower the value. I see it when it comes to originality, but it’s just much more useable?

[AndyGSi]

Depending on the size of the case, bar diameter and lug gap you may have a problem using a female spring bar due to their diameter and the gap between it and the case.

The other option is to cut and file the bar flush with the lugs and then drill a hole through from either side but this needs to
be very accurate and you still may have a problem with the distance left between the bar and case to fit a metal strap.

I think lowering the value would be dependant on the watches value to start with.