As usual, excellently and patiently presented information. I think offering these watches with the screw driver is a really nice touch and should be well appreciated by those without the proper tools. By the way, I’m loving my Islander 38mm. Incredible quality for the money. Thanks again for a wonderful product!
You should probably look at why omega and Rolex and other high end watches before you make an ignorant comment. The high quality acrylic they use is more expensive to produce than sapphire. You think they wouldn't use a $40 piece of crystal on it if they didn't have a reason? Derp.
Thank you for this video Mark. I just received the bracelet for my Citizen Promaster Dive watch and when I saw that first screw come out I thought I had broken it! Once I saw the second one I looked closer and saw it was by design. I love the bracelet BTW, and thank you for providing the screwdriver as well! It’s very tedious using the tiny glasses screwdriver on my Swiss Army Knife so I really appreciate it. 😄
I got the islander today an when I went to size it, I immediately thought it had bent/broken pins 😅. Luckily I stumbled upon this video explaining them.
Few realize that sapphire crystals, solid end links, solid center links on the jubilee, machined clasps, and screw link pins are all relatively recent for Rolex. Your 1980's Rolex is typical of the era. When someone sees one that isn't familiar with the construction and materials used then, they gasp, think maybe it's fake, and are horrified. Regarding your pin type, I saw those on Strapcode's web site. There have been some recent postings on social media about Strapcode screw heads separating from pins that are apparently tight in the center link, or the far side link, leaving them stuck in the link with no means of removing them. Just an FYI about the potential failure mode and something for you to watch for with yours. Just did the bracelet resizing on a Citizen Stiletto, the one with the gray checkerboard dial. I had expected the common cotter pin, or perhaps a pin and sleeve. However, there were no arrows on the backside of the links and a magnifier revealed a flat tip screw head. Not what I expected for links that thin. They were extremely difficult to remove as I believe Citizen used some form of thread locker on them. Soaked the link pins in Liquid Wrench and let them sit overnight. Then I put it in a block, and tapped the threaded end some with a drift and jeweler's driver, not with the force I'd use for a stuck cotter pin or pin with sleeve, but enough to give it some impact that could break whatever it was locking the threads (a trick learned long ago with corroded screws and bolts). They finally broke loose. Among the smallest diameter screws I've encountered in watch bracelets. I'd have to compare them, but they reminded me of the very small diameter screws in an Atlantic Seacrest bracelet, which is also a thin one. An FYI about the Citizen Stiletto you still have in stock. They're not necessarily pin and collar, Citizen also used screws in them, and the screws could be locked in quite tight - which could result in stripped out head if someone uses too much brute force instead of finesse. Keep the tutorials coming. They undoubtedly help those who haven't been around the block a few times - stuff I had to learn the hard way a few decades ago.
I bought a Miltat Bracelet for two Seikos and was so pleased they were friction screw pins absolute Treat I wish Dive watches are supplied with Rubber and Bracelet straps together.
What you need is a note the size found in a fortune cookie with a brief description of the screw pins wrapped around the bracelet. BTW, still loving my ISL-08.
I couldn’t get the screws out to see how fancy they are. I actually just left a jewelry store from having my new Islander sized. I even filed down the smallest screwdriver I owned. Anyways it looks great. It’s my first black dial / black bezel diver in a sea of blue ones. Yes I did that on purpose. Can’t wait to get years of use out of it. Keep up the great work Marc!
This is all well and good. However on the second Islander I bought from you the screw completely detached from the pin, which stayed inside, impossible to reach. Fortunately there was another link on that side of the bracelet that I was able to remove, so the sizing was successful in the end. Given the choice I would prefer pins like the one you showed first. It's the system Strapcode uses.
Marc any LIW approved solutions for this common problem (other than using a new link)? my strapcode had a link where the screw head detached from the pin shaft, which was trapped inside. my ideas to pull out the trapped pin are: Magnet grab, hammer tap, gravity, or canned air.
What a coincidence! I today had my ISL 05 Bracelet adjusted and came over these screws and at the beginning wondered, then realized the mechanism behind! Quality and engineering. Nevertheless i have to mention that the clasp's pin was too lose and i had to swap it with another one, did not expect this issue on an Islander.
Hello Marc. Those screws are real good for secure seating. Just had a thought cross my mind, how about Torx heads for a non slip grip on the screwdriver.
I've never come across this type of screw, but it seems like a good design that I wouldn't mind. I prefer screws or pin and collars myself in a bracelet. I'm not a fan of certain micro-screws on a case back. The majority I've worked on I've never had a problem. I've had a few, one particular design, where the heads were so tiny and the material seems soft are always a challenge. Even with the best proper screwdriver they are always hard to work with. Some using Loctite have never been an issue, but the particular ones that are a PITA forget about it. As always thanks for the lesson Marc. I can see an Islander in my future!
Hi Mark. I just have watched all your videos. There was incredible. Excellent quality. I learned a Lot. I Will but am Islander with that Strange Sapphire bezzel, congratulations for your watches I write from Bogotá DC
I had one where the screw broke off the link on removal. I screwed the head back in and picked a different link to adjust. If I needed to, how would I get the pin out if it is separated from the head? Bang and shake it around until it falls out?
Norsemann same as when I’m looking in UA-cam settings and it says “clear watch history?” Immediately I think it’s referring to watch videos and only watch videos. ;) lolz
I hope that if I get a screwdriver when I order my Islander later this year that it has the Long Island Watch symbol on the top of it. I think that would be sweet.
No I haven't since this video...lol I am still laughing at this genius mechanic that does the job well yet confuse the one who don't know about it... Thanks for your watch and learn series
Very cool stuff, I def feel like press clasp/hollow end link/pin links are all getting a bad rep. they aren't pretty but they work fine. Sometimes we just don't appreciate good ideas for what they are
Just got my ISL-66 today and its look and feel amazing, very happy with it. But I'm trying to removed a few link and literally I can get any of the screws out. It's as if they are seized up. They unscrew a bit and then just get tighter towards the end, nothing as easy as in this video. Not enough is coming out to even grab the end to pull it out. Any advice? Cheers
Hi Mark, about 3 screws of my ISL 09 have severed heads (screws separated from pins) when I got the watch. As a result, pins are stuck in between the links. Are they broken?
Thanks for the info. I have a HUGE problem with all my watches getting magnetized. I keep them away from my computer and other obvious hazards. Is it possible they are magnetizing each other in my watch box?
Marc, They got my house last night. Will they still deliver my deployment clasp to a smoldering foundation? Can't wait to try it out on my Mako II. Thanks!
I'm thinking, "That's genius!" and then you immediately say, "That's genius." and my world is affirmed. LOL. Stay safe out there!
You too.
Exact same thought and situation over here north of Philly!
I can't believe people don't get this and complain about it. How is this not apparent?!
Anyways thanks Marc!
It's not to all.
I just finished building my own SKX 00 me, with quite a lot of your videos as training. Thanks for that. The watch feels like PURE QUALITY.
As usual, excellently and patiently presented information. I think offering these watches with the screw driver is a really nice touch and should be well appreciated by those without the proper tools. By the way, I’m loving my Islander 38mm. Incredible quality for the money. Thanks again for a wonderful product!
Thanks so much!
I just got my Islander and thank you for the screwdriver.
The irony of a Rolex having Acrylic while we demand Seiko up their game and move to Sapphire :D
Yup.
You should probably look at why omega and Rolex and other high end watches before you make an ignorant comment. The high quality acrylic they use is more expensive to produce than sapphire. You think they wouldn't use a $40 piece of crystal on it if they didn't have a reason? Derp.
Thank you for this video Mark. I just received the bracelet for my Citizen Promaster Dive watch and when I saw that first screw come out I thought I had broken it! Once I saw the second one I looked closer and saw it was by design. I love the bracelet BTW, and thank you for providing the screwdriver as well! It’s very tedious using the tiny glasses screwdriver on my Swiss Army Knife so I really appreciate it. 😄
Wow did not know these existed will be useful in some of the independent projects that I use.
I got the islander today an when I went to size it, I immediately thought it had bent/broken pins 😅. Luckily I stumbled upon this video explaining them.
Now you know.
Love these watch and learn videos Marc. I was looking up the one about spring bars and straps this afternoon. Very useful series.
Glad you like them!
Those pins are smart. But if someone never saw that style before (like me), you would think something was broken. Thanks for making this video!
Few realize that sapphire crystals, solid end links, solid center links on the jubilee, machined clasps, and screw link pins are all relatively recent for Rolex. Your 1980's Rolex is typical of the era. When someone sees one that isn't familiar with the construction and materials used then, they gasp, think maybe it's fake, and are horrified. Regarding your pin type, I saw those on Strapcode's web site. There have been some recent postings on social media about Strapcode screw heads separating from pins that are apparently tight in the center link, or the far side link, leaving them stuck in the link with no means of removing them. Just an FYI about the potential failure mode and something for you to watch for with yours.
Just did the bracelet resizing on a Citizen Stiletto, the one with the gray checkerboard dial. I had expected the common cotter pin, or perhaps a pin and sleeve. However, there were no arrows on the backside of the links and a magnifier revealed a flat tip screw head. Not what I expected for links that thin. They were extremely difficult to remove as I believe Citizen used some form of thread locker on them. Soaked the link pins in Liquid Wrench and let them sit overnight. Then I put it in a block, and tapped the threaded end some with a drift and jeweler's driver, not with the force I'd use for a stuck cotter pin or pin with sleeve, but enough to give it some impact that could break whatever it was locking the threads (a trick learned long ago with corroded screws and bolts). They finally broke loose. Among the smallest diameter screws I've encountered in watch bracelets. I'd have to compare them, but they reminded me of the very small diameter screws in an Atlantic Seacrest bracelet, which is also a thin one. An FYI about the Citizen Stiletto you still have in stock. They're not necessarily pin and collar, Citizen also used screws in them, and the screws could be locked in quite tight - which could result in stripped out head if someone uses too much brute force instead of finesse. Keep the tutorials coming. They undoubtedly help those who haven't been around the block a few times - stuff I had to learn the hard way a few decades ago.
Many thanks Marc, very informative 👍
I really wish watch makers would use screwed lugs as standard. It would give me much peace of mind.
I hear ya.
Those,are cool. I had not seen such a screw before this video. It does look ideal for watch bracelets%!
Thanks!
I bought a Miltat Bracelet for two Seikos and was so pleased they were friction screw pins absolute Treat I wish Dive watches are supplied with Rubber and Bracelet straps together.
Thanks Marc!
Well done Mark, I'm sure that You get all kinds of complaints on this. Thanks for the video, a little knowledge goes a long way!👍
Thanks 👍
What you need is a note the size found in a fortune cookie with a brief description of the screw pins wrapped around the bracelet.
BTW, still loving my ISL-08.
That is a great idea and explains why some watches I have the screws in the bracelet get loose sometimes.
Sure does.
I couldn’t get the screws out to see how fancy they are. I actually just left a jewelry store from having my new Islander sized. I even filed down the smallest screwdriver I owned. Anyways it looks great. It’s my first black dial / black bezel diver in a sea of blue ones. Yes I did that on purpose. Can’t wait to get years of use out of it. Keep up the great work Marc!
Great to hear it, thanks for the perseverance.
This is all well and good. However on the second Islander I bought from you the screw completely detached from the pin, which stayed inside, impossible to reach. Fortunately there was another link on that side of the bracelet that I was able to remove, so the sizing was successful in the end.
Given the choice I would prefer pins like the one you showed first. It's the system Strapcode uses.
Glad to hear it. Actually, Strapcode transitioned to shaker-head on many of the designs as of late.
Marc any LIW approved solutions for this common problem (other than using a new link)? my strapcode had a link where the screw head detached from the pin shaft, which was trapped inside. my ideas to pull out the trapped pin are: Magnet grab, hammer tap, gravity, or canned air.
What a coincidence! I today had my ISL 05 Bracelet adjusted and came over these screws and at the beginning wondered, then realized the mechanism behind! Quality and engineering. Nevertheless i have to mention that the clasp's pin was too lose and i had to swap it with another one, did not expect this issue on an Islander.
Perfect timing!
If you need a new clasp, let us know.
Hello Marc.
Those screws are real good for secure seating.
Just had a thought cross my mind, how about Torx heads for a non slip grip on the screwdriver.
That would be a really small head to broach. Damasko does it, but the heads are much bigger.
Just another great heads up video!!! Thanks again!!!!
THAT'S F-ING BRILLIANT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yup
Very interesting engineering. I use tape around areas of links to eliminate scratches. It's a big help although a bother. Thank you.
Thanks.
Really enjoy the look and learn videos. I've learnt quite a bit from them and would enjoy more.
Great to hear!
I've never come across this type of screw, but it seems like a good design that I wouldn't mind. I prefer screws or pin and collars myself in a bracelet. I'm not a fan of certain micro-screws on a case back. The majority I've worked on I've never had a problem. I've had a few, one particular design, where the heads were so tiny and the material seems soft are always a challenge. Even with the best proper screwdriver they are always hard to work with. Some using Loctite have never been an issue, but the particular ones that are a PITA forget about it. As always thanks for the lesson Marc. I can see an Islander in my future!
Thanks for checking out the video.
So cool. And trippy. 😂
Hi Mark. I just have watched all your videos. There was incredible. Excellent quality. I learned a Lot.
I Will but am Islander with that Strange Sapphire bezzel, congratulations for your watches
I write from Bogotá DC
I had one where the screw broke off the link on removal. I screwed the head back in and picked a different link to adjust. If I needed to, how would I get the pin out if it is separated from the head? Bang and shake it around until it falls out?
Smart design! I thought the screws on my 38mm islander was broken myself haha
:)
Saw this on an independent review of your newer Islanders. Very nice upgrade and design, Cheers
Hey, thanks!
"Watch" and learn. Hilarious 😂 Anyway, love your videos. Learned something new today also. Keep up the good work
Norsemann same as when I’m looking in UA-cam settings and it says “clear watch history?” Immediately I think it’s referring to watch videos and only watch videos. ;) lolz
Thanks! 😃
Would be good to see a red dial Islander. It's surprising how few red dial watches there are!
Okay, thanks.
I hope that if I get a screwdriver when I order my Islander later this year that it has the Long Island Watch symbol on the top of it. I think that would be sweet.
No I haven't since this video...lol
I am still laughing at this genius mechanic that does the job well yet confuse the one who don't know about it... Thanks for your watch and learn series
Glad you enjoyed it
Some of strapcode miltat bracelets has this type of screw-pins.
Yes, they do.
I recently got an islander and I thought the pin was broken at first haha.
Now ya know!
Great idea👍
Thank you! 😊
That really is ingenious. How common are shaker head screws in watches?
Not sure!
Very cool stuff, I def feel like press clasp/hollow end link/pin links are all getting a bad rep. they aren't pretty but they work fine. Sometimes we just don't appreciate good ideas for what they are
Good point!
Thats so clever.
The Pin will Spin...
Indeed it will!
Hey Marc great information , I’ve been trying to find out if you’re knew Islander watches are Diver certified ?
They are not ISO.
Here is a few ideas for a name for this pivot screw joint screw or ball screw
Adjusted mine in no time. Easy as pie. The pastry not the number.
Awesome! LOL
This happened to my strapcode on my skx007... very frustrating because strapecode does not have a replacment screw 22mm
Do you sell them?
Link?
My Miltat bracelet has this screws. Very good.
Yup, that is Strapcode.
Can you please tell me the diameter of the pin section?
As usual, great video.
Glad you enjoyed it
Fascinating! Who knew?
Not all did!
Thanks for the video. Does the other islander bracelet (ISL-05) use the same shaker-head screws?
Yes.
Just got my ISL-66 today and its look and feel amazing, very happy with it. But I'm trying to removed a few link and literally I can get any of the screws out. It's as if they are seized up.
They unscrew a bit and then just get tighter towards the end, nothing as easy as in this video.
Not enough is coming out to even grab the end to pull it out.
Any advice?
Cheers
Shaker Head Screws. Who knew?
This looks 1:1 like a Strapcode bracelet.
Reminds of the stem on my Vostok
Not the same.
Hi Mark, about 3 screws of my ISL 09 have severed heads (screws separated from pins) when I got the watch. As a result, pins are stuck in between the links. Are they broken?
Email us.
Hi Marc, again, thanks for your vids. Got a question for you, why did you opt to not include the number of jewels on the dial of the watch?
No need. It doesn't convey any info.
NIce! Good to know!
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the info. I have a HUGE problem with all my watches getting magnetized. I keep them away from my computer and other obvious hazards. Is it possible they are magnetizing each other in my watch box?
Doubt that.
hmmm ? Could the "infamous " Vostock "wobbly" Crown/ Stem system; be relying on the same principle , as those " Shaker Head" Screws ???
Bonjour I asked myself the same question
Yes it is.
Marc, They got my house last night. Will they still deliver my deployment clasp to a smoldering foundation? Can't wait to try it out on my Mako II. Thanks!
LOL
Not broken just genius
Yes.
Hi Marc Do screws in ALL bracelets tend to be the same size? thanks again, stay safe.
No, not at all.
Wobble head screws
free Bergeon or Horotec screwdriver? Mark you marketing animal you! 😂🤘
Neat :-)
Yeah, pretty cool
Honestly hilarious that people can't see this
Not everyone sees things as a mechanical system.
Your dad had Patrick Bateman's Rolex.
Can I put an Islander on My Watch My Way?
Not yet.
You can attach this video everytime someone complains about the bracelet, genius
Of course.