How to Swap Straps on Your Tsao Baltimore Watch Safely
By Tsao Baltimore | Baltimore Watch Company | Published: 2026-10-16
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to change your Tsao Baltimore watch strap without scratches. Follow our step-by-step guide for quick release spring bars and FKM rubber strap installation.
Quick Answer
To safely swap a strap on your Tsao Baltimore watch, work over a soft cloth, use a spring bar tool if your strap lacks quick-release pins, and always verify the lug width matches the strap. For models with quick release spring bars, simply slide the lever and pull the strap away. For FKM rubber or alligator straps, ensure the spring bar is fully seated in the lug holes before wearing.
Gather the Right Tools and Prepare Your Workspace
Before you begin, clear a well-lit area and place a microfiber cloth or soft towel on the surface. This prevents scratches if a spring bar slips. You will need a spring bar tool with a fork tip for standard spring bars, or your fingers if your strap uses quick release pins. A small screwdriver or toothpick can help align stubborn bars. Avoid using knives or sharp metal tools that can gouge the case.
Remove the Old Strap
If your current strap has quick release spring bars, locate the small lever on the back of the strap near the lug. Slide it inward and gently pull the strap away from the case. For standard spring bars, insert the fork end of your spring bar tool between the strap and the lug, then compress the spring bar until it clears the lug hole. Repeat on the other side. Keep a finger over the spring bar to catch it—they can fly. If the strap is tight, angle the tool slightly and apply steady pressure rather than force.
Install the New Strap
Attach the new strap to the spring bars first if it uses quick release pins—simply slide the pins into the strap's sleeve. For standard spring bars, insert one end into a lug hole, then compress the other end with your tool and guide it into the opposite hole. You should hear or feel a click when it seats. For FKM rubber straps, ensure the strap is oriented correctly (the buckle end typically goes at 12 o'clock). For alligator straps, the shorter end goes at 12 o'clock. Tug gently on the strap to confirm both ends are secure.
Check Fit and Comfort
Once installed, try the watch on. The strap should sit snugly without pinching. If you are using a cut-to-fit FKM rubber strap, you may need to trim the excess rubber. Use sharp scissors and cut small amounts at a time, testing the fit as you go. For alligator straps, the sizing is fixed, so ensure you selected the correct length. If the strap twists or the watch head flops, the spring bars may not be fully seated—remove and reinstall.
Step-by-Step Strap Swap Checklist
- Prepare your workspace: Work over a soft cloth in a well-lit area. Gather a spring bar tool (if needed) and keep small parts contained. Checkpoint: No loose spring bars on the floor.
- Remove the old strap: For quick release, slide the lever and pull. For standard spring bars, compress the bar with a tool until it clears the lug. Mistake to avoid: Forcing the strap—if it resists, check for a hidden screw or tight fit.
- Attach the new strap: Insert spring bars into the strap, then seat one end in a lug hole and compress the other end into place. Listen for a click. Checkpoint: Tug gently on the strap to confirm it's secure.
- Adjust fit if needed: For cut-to-fit rubber, trim excess in small increments. For leather or alligator, ensure the buckle is centered. Mistake to avoid: Cutting too much rubber at once—you can't undo it.
- Final check: Wear the watch for a few minutes. Ensure the strap doesn't twist and the watch head stays centered. If the watch flops, re-seat the spring bars.
Tsao Baltimore Straps That Work With This Process
- Torsk-Diver Pro (43mm) FKM Rubber Strap - Black: This Black FKM Rubber strap is a custom strap designed and made for the Torsk-Diver Pro Collection. Each rubber strap is cut-to fit and comes with a steel dive extension buckle. The cut-to-fit design lets you trim the strap for a precise fit, and the steel dive extension buckle adds functionality for diving or adjusting over a wetsuit. Note it will not fit the Torsk GMT 39.
- Natural Rubber Dive Strap - Bronze: Natural Rubber Dive Strap - Bronze: Style: Rubber Dive Strap; Material: Natural Rubber; Color: Black; Thickness: 6mm; Length: 130mm/90mm; Width: 22mm; Hardware Options: Bronze; Attachment: Built-in Quick Release pins; Feel: Smooth and soft against the wrist. The built-in quick release pins make swapping this strap tool-free, and the 22mm width fits watches with 22mm lugs. The bronze hardware matches bronze cases.
- Genuine Alligator Strap - Raven Purple: Premium Legacy Collection Classic genuine alligator watch strap. Hand sewn from genuine alligator. Quick release pins. Size: 125 / 80mm. Width: 20mm - 18mm. Includes a Bronze or Steel buckle. The quick release pins simplify installation, and the tapered width (20mm to 18mm) adds elegance. The included buckle lets you match your case metal.
