Using Your Forstner Flat Link
The Forstner Flat Link bracelet is similar in construction to the "standard" bracelet that comes with the Omega Speedmaster, and can be worn and adjusted in the same manner. Below are instructions for using and sizing the bracelet.
- Attaching End Links
The end links of the Forstner Flat Link are not attached to the bracelet at the time of purchase. This is to make it possible to use multiple different end link sizes without having to purchase more than one bracelet (so, for example, a person could use one bracelet on both the Omega Speedmaster Professional and the First Omega in Space).
To attach the end link to the bracelet, line up the end link to the last link on the bracelet, and slide the supplied spring bar through the hole. Doing so will secure the end link to the bracelet itself. Be careful to not let the spring bar fall out before you attach to the case, as the end piece likewise would fall off.
- Attaching to Watch Case
Once the end links are secured to the bracelet, the bracelet attaches to the watch just like any other strap or bracelet. Align the end piece into the watch lugs, and compress the spring bars inward until they "click" into the watch's lug holes. Because the tolerance and fit is tight between the end piece and watch case, you may have to press the end piece toward the case until the end clicks in.
Forstner supplies spring bars with each order intended for use with the Flat Link bracelet. If you are trying to use the OEM Omega spring bars and they don't work, do not try to force it. The OEM Omega bars do not always work with our bracelet depending on the model (for example, some Omega bars are intended for straps, not bracelets, and others are too thick) - we suggest that you use the supplied 1.8mm spring bars instead, particularly if you have any difficult installing with Omega bars.
- Removing Bracelet Links
The Forstner Flat Link utilizes a common type of screw-link system for band resizing. The screw system is self-containing, meaning that the screw does not secure into the link itself -- there is a small screw that is secured into a tube that goes through the length of the link. This type of screw system ensures that the screw will not become loose due to the natural rotation of the watch links, as the screw is completely independent from the links.
To remove a link, secure the screw on one side to stop it from moving (for best results, use a mini screwdriver, but many common household items can serve this purpose), and unscrew the other end. You'll notice a small screw start to emerge from the link. Once it's out, put it somewhere where you won't lose it, and push out the tube end (something like a toothpick can push it out). Then, the links will separate. Remove as many links as necessary for comfort, and repeat the process in reverse to screw the links back together. The easiest way to screw it back together is to secure the small screw in the link while you screw the tube into the small screw (less fiddling with the small screw).
To avoid scratching the bracelet during link adjustment, put a piece of tape on the side of the bracelet - the mini screwdriver will pierce the tape to enter the slat in the screw, but if you slip, the screwdriver should not directly contact the bracelet itself.
The below video shows one way to remove the links (a way that we personally find simple and effective):
- Clasp Adjustment:
The Flat Link clasp is of a style that will be familiar to many. There are small pin-holes along the length of the side of the clasp. To use the micro adjustment, push in the pins on the back side of the clasp and move forward until you reach the proper fit.
For any question, please do not hesitate to contact support@forstnerbands.com