How to Replace a Clasp Rivet Bar (Hinge Pin / Friction Bar) on an Omega Seamaster 1503/825

If the clasp rivet bar — also known as a hinge pin or friction bar — becomes loose it can cause problems when opening and closing the clasp and may eventually lead to it coming apart entirely.

In this guide, we’re using an Omega Seamaster clasp (also known as a folding buckle) with reference 1503/825 as an example, but the process is the same for many other Omega models and even other brands with similar folding clasp construction.

Showing the Problem: Broken Rivet Pin

Why You’ll Need a Replacement Rivet Bar

Omega does not sell these pins individually, which is why we offer a selection of replacement hinge pins at The Watch Link. In this guide we are using the 1503/825 hinge pin which can be bought here, but we also have a range of other sizes you can find here. These are high quality and affordably priced, giving you a simple way to repair your clasp without needing to replace the whole thing.

What You’ll Need

• A small hammer (a framing hammer works fine if that’s what you have)
• A hard, stable surface
• Optional: piercing saw or mini cutting tool
• Optional: flat-nose pliers

Step-by-Step: Replacing a Clasp Rivet Bar

1) Check the Problem

If the old pin is still partially in place, you’ll need to remove it. You can do this by inserting pliers into the hinge and gently forcing it open, or by using a piercing saw to cut the pin in half through the gap.

Using Pliers to Separate the Clasp

2) Clear the Holes

Once removed, check that both hinge holes are clear. Lay the clasp flat and make sure it is positioned so that it closes the correct way round once reassembled.

3) Insert the Replacement Hinge Pin

Take the longer pin (tube) and slide it into place. Then insert the separate rivet head into the other side of the tube and press them together tightly using your fingers.

Inserting the Long Tube Into the Hinge

4) Secure the Rivet

Tilt the clasp so that the separate rivet head (the one you manually inserted) is facing upward. Using a hammer — ideally a small jeweller’s hammer but a household framing hammer will work — gently tap the rivet into place. Tap slowly and test often. Stop tapping once the hinge starts to feel slightly stiff, which means the fit is secure.

 

Tilting the Clasp to Access the Rivet Head

Using a Hammer to Gently Tap the Rivet

5) Test the Clasp

Open and close the clasp several times. If it holds firm and moves smoothly, you have completed the job correctly.

Fully Repaired Clasp After Rivet Replacement

Stretch Removed and Clasp Fully Functional

Why Use a Replacement Rivet Bar?

Omega does not sell these friction bars or clasp rivet pins as spare parts. In most cases you have to replace the entire clasp, which can be costly. Our hinge pins are precision-made, high-quality replacements, saving you money while restoring your watch’s clasp or folding buckle to full working order.

This method is shown using an Omega Seamaster clasp, but it can be applied to other watch brands and clasp models with the same type of hinge construction.

Need a Replacement Pin for Your Omega Watch Clasp?

You can find the pin shown in this tutorial — along with other sizes — right here: Pins for Watch Clasps – TheWatchLink