Patek Philippe - Issues changing 5167 bands (strap and bracelet)?

Issues changing 5167 bands (strap and bracelet)?

Hello all,

I'm looking at adding a 5167 to my collection. One of the appeals of this piece is the versatility of changing between the tropical strap and the steel bracelet. I've read a lot of posts here where members discuss changing these. However, my AD called Patek and they say the watch must be sent back to them to switch straps. They said a special tool is required which most watchmakers don't have. I'd love to get some information on this. I'm especially interested in those who have this watch with both straps. Is your AD changing it for you? Are they having any problems? Are any members changing the strap themselves? I've search the forum pretty diligently but haven't seen a good answer to this question. Thanks in advance!

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I certainly hope you have been misinformed.

By: mkvc : October 14th, 2010-21:05

If it's true, it is among the most absurd design errors ever made.

this is almost true...

By: YWA : October 15th, 2010-11:24

.. the reason Patek might of said that is because at one point the 5167's straps weren't interchangeable and only they would be able to attempt to put a bracelet on a version of the 5167 that wasn't meant to have one. This can be determined by the serial ...

I agree with the above comments.................

By: Topcat30093 : October 16th, 2010-07:46

If you own the new 5167, the bracelet should be quite easily changed. What my AD did, was contact Patek with my movement number and they were then able to confirm, that the bracelet could be used with my piece. Perhaps a quick phone, to your AD could reso...

It is slightly curious this one

By: paulus : October 16th, 2010-07:54

The Patek Geneva store (no less) confirmed to me in May this year that the straps were 'absolutely not interchangeable' - although I have heard from almost all on this forum that this is not the case! But I do understand what the original question refers ...

Here's what I heard from Patek (Stern)

By: NW_Rich : October 20th, 2010-12:53

OK. I took Rob's advice and I called Patek in NY (repairs department). Thanks Rob for that recommendation. First, they were extremely helpful and pleasant to speak with. As it turns out, all the replies are correct, and all the replies are incorrect. I kn...