When To Remove Links
The rigid links in these straps are typically interconnected with pins or screws. Sizing often begins with the
clasp and the use of its adjustment holes. You can simply move the
spring bar in one direction or the other to size many
bracelets without removing any links.
But for optimal fit, it's better to remove links if you find you must shorten the buckle by more than three holes. The reason: the opening end of the buckle tends to sag or hang away from the strap while in use, catching on coat sleeves and table edges. This can cause it to snap open unexpectedly.
The bracelet manufacturer usually provides several links on either side of the clasp that can be removed or replaced by using a special clip that slides into the links and locks in place. Some are identified by the hole or slot in the clip; others are noted by the dimple (rather than a hole) in their underside.
Many clip designs are used, but all are removed and replaced in a similar manner. (Several
bracelet models require removal of pins rather than clips. Ask the vendor or your watch supply house for a special
pin-removing tool to size these bracelets.)
Bracelet and watch vendors and watch supply houses also can provide a
specially made plier to simplify replacing links. Consider asking your supervisor for permission to buy this tool for your bench. Below are instructions for using basic
needlenose pliers.
Removing the Links
If the link has a dimple underneath, simply push down on the link behind the dimple and slide it out.
If the link has a hole or a slot in the clip, use
needlenose pliers to remove the clip. Some benchworkers use a screwdriver, but this can slip easily and scar the bracelet or cut your hand.
Place one point of the
needlenose pliers into the hole or slot provided by the clip and place the other point of the pliers into the adjacent link (see illustration left).
Rotate the pliers counterclockwise to lever out the clip far enough to grab and pull it out with the pliers.
If the clip is stubborn, grasp it farther up in the jaws of the pliers, place the pliers against adjacent links for fulcrum support, then pull the clip (as shown right).
Finally, several
bracelets use links with holes opposite of where the clips are removed. Here, place one tip of the pliers into the hole, rest the other tip on the inside of the adjacent link and twist the pliers to push out the clip. With the clips removed, the links can be separated from the bracelet.
Fit the Bracelet
When fitting the
watch bracelet to the wearer's wrist, hold it somewhat loosely, particularly if he or she wears the watch next to the hand rather than above the wrist bone. When the wrist bends, the muscles there expand. This places pressure on a tight-fitting, rigid bracelet, creating the possibility the
spring bars will break and links will wear and break prematurely.
To replace a clip after the correct number of links are added or removed, reinsert the clip into the link end, press in with the flat side of a knife blade and tap it home with a striking hammer as the strap rests on a bench block.
Generally, the cheaper the bracelet, the more difficult it is to replace the links. You may need to begin the link-removal procedure with a screwdriver and then grip the clip with
pliers. Use pliers whenever possible to save wear and tear on you, your tools and the bracelet. In some cases, replacing the entire bracelet may be more efficient for you and more cost-effective in the long run for the watch owner. This is especially true if the owner prefers a new, good-quality
watch bracelet rather than an inexpensive one that is time-consuming and costly, if not impossible, to adjust.
