worn clasp on vintage Longines - cost effective solution?

[Harris_I]

When I say vintage, it's only a 20 year old quartz. Daughter's hand-me-down from her grandmother, more sentimental value than market value.

The clasp button sometimes fails to depress properly so can occasionally jam and take a while to remove. The button is a sealed unit (see photo).

The watch is not worth a lot, so a local watchmaker quoting £250 to substitute a close approximation of the clasp (an Omega one) isn't really justifiable for a girl who works a low wage job, especially when early 2000s Longines clasps on eBay seem to be around the £20 mark.

Unfortunately, the bracelet design is intricate and unusual, and not easily substituted by generic straps (even the lugs are unique). A replacement clasp doesn't need to match aesthetically as it's hidden behind the bracelet, but finding a shape that fits is proving a challenge.

I've tried eBay to source a replacement clasp but drawing a blank. There are so many watch forums, I'm not sure where to ask. Any guidance much appreciated!

[gregs656]

May be worth a run through a ultrasonic cleaner, or even just a good scrub under hot water etc

[Harris_I]

Good suggestion!

Perhaps the spring has seized up a bit with debris. I'll try a detergent bath and see if there's an improvement.

[Pugster]

A used toothbrush can work wonders and get rid of all the gunk that no doubt has built up

[Stevemr]

Another vote for an ultrasonic cleaner. Gets to the bits you can’t reach.

[Harris_I]

I looked these up and they're surprisingly cheap (although as with all things, I guess you get what you pay for).

In the meantime, some warm water, mild detergent and a toothbrush seem to have offered a temporary reprieve - let's see if this lasts.

[RiggaTheMighty]

Is it definitely a sealed unit?
Does it not have a teeny tiny screw on the back next to the button?

Worth a look, as that's a quick fix if so.