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Wrist Check

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Here's something you don't see everyday; A Seiko SNA411 Flightmaster on a 5-ring Zulu strap. No too common, I imagine, because it's kind of a pain in the butt to make the swap! First off, the lug width on this watch is 21mm instead of (pick one) any other common dimension. On top of that, the supplied spring bars are chunky and fit prohibitively close to the case. Fortunately, one of the good-watch-samaritans here on MD (who's name escapes me at the moment) suggested aftermarket, curved spring bars for just that sort of situation. And that, dear readers, is the only damn way of getting even this fairly thin, 20mm Zulu through those oddly-engineered lugs! I was motivated to make the change for two reasons: A) I was kind of looking for a more authentic/flight inspired appearance, and B) even by inexpensive watch standards, the supplied stainless steel bracelet is one of Seiko's most questionable fold-over offerings (although oddly, it does have solid end links). So, worth the effort? Hell yes! It's a great watch, and I think the grey/green strap gives it the new, no bull-shit, purpose-driven look I was shooting for--all for less than ten extra bucks (strap and magic curved spring bars included ;- )
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RayF
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ED61
1650
Feb 18, 2019
Well I guess I learned something today curved springbars pliers to do the job awesome and ray cool watch
RayF
22214
Feb 18, 2019
ED61I lean something new here every day--it's infuriating!
wlhughes
146
Feb 18, 2019
I finally sprung for one of those Spring Bar Bending Pliers on Esslinger. Makes installing tight-fitting NATO's or ZULU's a snap. Also helps with case fitted leather bands.
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wlhughes
146
Feb 18, 2019
I thought the same thing but the curve is very subtle; just enough to thread the band. Some folks would have you attach one side of the pin and press the other side in till it connects and that works but it really stresses the pin. I got this for a Bulova Chronograph C. Very tight lug space.
RayF
22214
Feb 18, 2019
wlhughes Not too expensive and probably saves a lot of cussing! I might spring for a pair ;- )
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Erikesp
2337
Feb 15, 2019
Looks sharp though!
RayF
22214
Feb 15, 2019
ErikespGracias amigo!
adrianwong14
1
Feb 15, 2019
i've had this watch for almost a decade and have been bothered by the same problems! what size curved spring bar did you use? any links?
CeeBass
2209
Feb 16, 2019
I bought 21mm curved for my SNA411 (your watch’s twin) and a 22mm curved for my Bremont MB2. My MB2 spring bars are so close to the case that I can’t even put a thin leather strap on it. I hope this will fix that issue.
RayF
22214
Feb 16, 2019
CeeBassThey certainly did in my case-- hope they do for you as well! The Zulu in the photo measures just under 2mm thick and even with the curved bars, still required some coaxing to come back up through the SNA411's second lug. Anything thicker (like a leather NATO) might be a little tougher. Like to hear how you make out--let us know, post some shots!
Won19
1
Feb 14, 2019
It looks perfect on that nato strap.
RayF
22214
Feb 14, 2019
Won19Thanks, 'ppreciate it. I'm dig'n it too. Doubt I'll be going back to the OEM bracelet any time soon.
Wags
37
Feb 14, 2019
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RayF
22214
Feb 14, 2019
WagsThanks, Chuck ;- )
Truelove1
2730
Feb 14, 2019
Very cool Ray. Nice job. Looks great.
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