The three suspects
A spring bar. The sprung pin holding the strap to the case. They lose tension or snap, and this is the most common cause by a wide margin.
The clasp. Popped open rather than broke. Often the catch has been getting weaker for months.
An end link or a link pin. The bracelet came apart rather than unfastened.
Check the watch for damage
Even a short drop can crack a crystal, bend a hand, knock a movement out of beat or break a case seal. Bring it in and let us look, because a watch that seems fine after a fall sometimes is not, and a cracked seal will not announce itself.
Replace both sides
If one spring bar failed, the other is the same age and has done the same work. Replacing one and leaving the other is how this happens twice.
Worth doing on any watch you wear daily
Spring bars are small and cheap and nobody thinks about them until a watch hits the pavement. Having them checked when you come in for a battery is a sensible habit.
Questions we get asked
What usually makes a watch fall off?
A spring bar, most of the time. Then the clasp, then a bracelet link.
Should I get it checked after a drop?
Yes. Crystals, hands, seals and the movement can all be affected without it being obvious.
Should both spring bars be replaced?
Yes. The other one is the same age and has done the same work.
How long does it take?
Usually while you wait.
Not sure we can fix it?
Send a couple of details and we will call you back. Or just walk in — it is quicker, and we can actually look at the piece.
Drop it off, shop the mall, wear it tonight
We are inside Orland Square Mall in Orland Park. Walk in during mall hours, no appointment. Most repairs are finished the same day and a good number while you wait.
Where we are
Julio's Jewelry, 800 Orland Square Drive, Orland Park, IL 60462 — inside Orland Square Mall. Mon–Thu 10am–8pm · Fri–Sat 10am–9pm · Sun 11am–6pm. We are also at North Riverside Park Mall, 7501 W Cermak Rd, North Riverside, IL 60546.