Cartier ballon bleu resizing

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marie132

marie132

Member
Sep 14, 2016
412
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#1
Hi all,

Does anyone know how to resize the metal bracelet of the ballon bleu? Mine is a bit loose but I don't want to go all the way to the Cartier store.

Also do you know how to change the bracelet for a leather one? I would do it at the store but what if I just want to change my bracelet in the morning to go with my outfit?

I tried finding the info about resizing online but there is nothing on BB. The pushpins don't have an exit way as the other side of the link is closed.

Any help appreciated!
 
#2
I bought a set of flat drivers and took the second smallest one and sanded the driver to fit perfectly into the screws of the bracelet to change the links. Although, I forewarn you that you may end of scratching the sides when trying to unscrew or screw on the screws. Also, the SA will also scratch the sides too since that happened to me.

To change the SS band to leather you have to go to Cartier. Your SA will send your watch in to change the band. It is a $500 plus charge to do it. Their roadster collection you were able to change the band freely. Unfortunately you can't with the ballon bleu :/

IMG_1495869501.961798.jpg
 
#3
I have a very similar question - I want to switch out my SS band for an alligator strap with deployant buckle. It looks like straps are in the $400 ballpark, but I can't find a price on a SS buckle. Any idea?
 
#4
Tophat1 said:
I have a very similar question - I want to switch out my SS band for an alligator strap with deployant buckle. It looks like straps are in the $400 ballpark, but I can't find a price on a SS buckle. Any idea?
Click to expand...

I'm a bit confused with what you are asking. Are you asking to change your stainless steel band to alligator band? Or your alligator band to stainless steel band?
 
#6
Figured it out and posting here in case anyone else needs the info

Straps run around $400 and so do deployant buckles. I ordered both online from an authorized Cartier dealer and then brought to a local jewelry store (also an AD) for swapping out my SS bracelet. It took the watchmaker about 15 minutes with many tools. I definitely would not try this on my own.

Alternately, you can order a strap from a Cartier boutique but they are unlikely to have it in stock and it can take many weeks to come in.

Now that I know the roadster is easy swap; I might have to look at getting one of those!
 
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