Replacement of the strap on the watch Swatch × Xiaomi: instructions with photos and tips

Swatch smart watches × Xiaomi is a stylish hybrid of Swiss design and Chinese technology, but even the most reliable straps wear out over time or become boring. From non-standard mounts to the risk of damage to the body if carelessly dismantled, in this article we will discuss how to properly remove the old strap, pick up a new one (including compatible counterparts from third-party brands), and install it without consequences for the watch.

We will focus on two popular lines: Swatch Moonswatch (with their unique Spring Bar 18 mm mounting system) and Xiaomi Watch S1 (which often uses 22 mm wide straps with quick-removal mechanism), also discuss what tools are really necessary and what you can do without, and reveal the secrets of extending the life of straps from silicone to natural leather.

What straps are compatible with Swatch watches × Xiaomi?

The first question that comes up when you replace it is, which strap is right? It depends on the model of the watch. For Swatch Moonswatch (for example, Mission to the Moon or Neptune), 18 mm wide straps with a Spring Bar mount are officially recommended, while the Xiaomi Watch S1 and Watch S1 Pro use the 22 mm standard with a quick-removal mechanism (sometimes referred to as Quick Release).

It is important to consider not only the width, but also the type of fastening:

• 🔧 Spring Bar – a classic mount, requires a special tool to remove.
• 🔄 Quick Release – a button mechanism that allows you to change straps without tools.
• 🔗 Integrated straps (e.g. Swatch) Sistem51) — Replacement is not possible without damage to the watch.

If you want to save money, you can look at the straps of third-party brands such as Barton, Hirsch or Hadley Roma. The main thing is to check the reviews about compatibility with your model. For example, for the Xiaomi Watch S1, the bands from the Amazfit GTR 3 (the same width and mount) will suit, but for Moonswatch it is better to choose original or certified counterparts, since the non-standard shape of the case can create problems with landing.

Tools to replace the strap: what really needs?

Many guides advise buying whole sets of tools to replace straps, but in practice most of them will not be useful.

• 🔨 Spring-loaded filmer (for Spring Bar) - you can buy for 100-300 rubles or use a thin screwdriver (but the risk of scratching the body is higher).
• 🧲 Magnet or tweezers - so as not to lose the spring when removing the strap.
• 📏 Line or bar – for accurate measurement of the width of the strap (especially if you are buying a non-original one).
• 🧴 Alcohol wipes – to clear the mounting slots of dirt before installing a new strap.

For models with Quick Release (for example, Xiaomi Watch S1) tools are not needed - the strap is removed by pressing the button on the back side. However, if the button is jammed (occurs after moisture), you may need a plastic blade for careful tweaking.

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If you do not have a spring-loaded collector, you can use a toothpick or paper clip, but you need to act extremely carefully: insert the tool into the groove at an angle of 45 ° and press on the spring, not on the body of the watch.

Step-by-step: how to remove the old strap?

The process of removing the strap varies depending on the type of attachment, and below is a universal nuanced instruction for Swatch and Xiaomi.

Spring Bar (Swatch Moonswatch, some Xiaomi models)

1. Place the watch on a soft surface (such as a towel) to avoid scratching the screen.
2. Find a small recess on the back of the strap near the mounting point to the body, and insert the tip of a spring-loaded receiver or a thin screwdriver into it.
3. Carefully press the spring until it contracts, and pull the strap aside. Repeat for the other side.

Take a picture of the location of the strap (so as not to confuse the sides)

Prepare a magnet or tweezers for springs

Clean the grooves of dirt with an alcohol napkin

Work on a soft surface-->

Quick Release (Xiaomi Watch S1, Watch S1 Pro)

1. Turn the clock over and find a small button on the back of the strap (usually marked with an arrow or dot).
2. Press the button and pull the strap to the side - it should slip out of the groove easily.
3. Repeat for the second side. If the button doesn't press, try to clean the mechanism of dirt or drop a little WD-40 (only on metal parts!).

How to install a new strap: Step-by-step with a photo

Installing a new strap requires care, especially if you are working with the Spring Bar. Here is a universal algorithm:

For Spring Bar (Swatch Moonswatch)

1. Put the spring in the groove on the watch body, make sure it's fully in and doesn't stick out.
2. Put the strap on the body and press gently until the spring snaps on the other side, and you'll hear a slight click.
3. Check the mounting's robustness: pull the strap to the sides. If it doesn't move, it's done right.

For Quick Release (Xiaomi Watch S1)

1. Insert the pin of the strap into the groove on the watch body until the end.
2. Press the strap from above until you hear a click - this means that the lock is in place.
3. Check that the button on the back of the strap does not protrude - this is a sign of correct installation.

Critically, when you put a strap on the Swatch Moonswatch, don't mix sides! The watch body has TOP (top) and BOTTOM (bottom), and some straps have arrows that point to the direction, and if you put the strap incorrectly, it will twist on the arm.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the seemingly simple process, many people make mistakes that damage the watch or the strap.

⚠️ Warning: Never pull the strap forcefully unless it's removed! This can bend the spring or break the lock. Better check again if you pressed the button correctly (for Quick Release) or if you got the spring spring spring to the end (for Spring Bar).

• 🔧 Using the wrong tools -- a screwdriver instead of a spring-loaded receiver often scratches the body. If you don't have a special tool, wrap the tip of the screwdriver with tape.
• 🔄 Mixed sides of strap - on Swatch Moonswatch, the top and bottom of the strap may differ in shape.
• 💦 Moisture getting into the mechanism – if you have cleaned the grooves with water or alcohol, let them dry completely before installing a new strap.

Another common problem is that the strap will not fit tightly after installation, which can happen if the Spring Bar spring is too short or worn out, in which case the strap will dangle or unfasten spontaneously, so you can replace the spring with a new one (they are sold in sets of 10 pieces for 200-300 rubles).

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If the watch is not tightly attached to the wrist after the strap has been replaced, check the length of the spring (Spring Bar). For Swatch Moonswatch, the optimal length is 18 mm, for Xiaomi Watch S1 - 22 mm.

How to take care of the straps so that they last longer?

The life of the strap depends not only on the quality of the material, but also on the care. Here are some tips to help prolong the life of your accessory:

• 🧼 Wash silicone straps with warm water and soap once a week. Avoid aggressive detergents, which can make the material fragile.
• 👟 Rub your leather straps with a wet wipe and periodically treat them with a special skin conditioner (such as the Apple Leather Cleaner!
• 🔗 Clean metal bracelets with a toothbrush with paste. Use rust to remove rust. WD-40, but then rinse thoroughly with water.
• 🧵 Fabric straps (NATO) wash manually in soapy solution and dry in straightened form to avoid deformation.

If you're active in sports, you'd better have two straps: silicone for training and leather or metal for everyday wear, which not only prolong the life of accessories, but also preserve the presentable look of the watch.

⚠️ Warning: If the strap has cracked (especially on silicone or leather), don't delay replacement! the damaged strap may break at the wrong time and the clock will fall.

Where to buy straps for Swatch × Xiaomi: a review of proven stores

The original straps from Swatch and Xiaomi can be bought in the official stores of the brands, but their range is often limited and prices are overpriced.

When buying on AliExpress or Amazon, check for reviews from photos to avoid forgeries. Also check if the description says that the strap is compatible with your watch model. For example, for the Xiaomi Watch S1, look for the mention of 22mm Quick Release, and for Swatch Moonswatch – 18mm Spring Bar.

FAQ: Frequent questions about replacing straps on Swatch × Xiaomi