Watch strap adjustment

[Binky]

I have just bought a watch via mail order and need to make the bracelet smaller by removing approx. 4 links. There is no instruction leaflet with it. Does anyone know how to do this or how much a jeweller would charge?

[Cheekystar]

when I worked at H Samuels we charged �5 if it was a basic one that was standard, could be more if its designer

[what..the?]

i have worked at H samuals as well as it can be quite pricey.

From experience though most metal watch staps have a similar design. Each link is attached to it s adjacent links via a metal bar/pin which needs to be pushed out.

You have to remember to take exactly 2 links from separate sides to the clasp so the watch sits correctly, otherwise if you were to take all four from one side of the stap either the face or the clasp would be in the wrong place on your wrist.

As I already said the links are connected to each other via metal bars/pins usually only a few links either side of the stap can be removed as if you were to remove to many the watch would not fit correctly. The links that can be removed will have two indicating marks 1)arrows on the 'inside' edge of the watch strap which tell you in which direction the bars are to be removed and 2) the bars within those links are visable then looking at the side of the strap i.e they are not moulded over/covered for cosmetic reasons.

[what..the?]

With a small (pin) hammer and a pin or thin nail you can tap the bars out of the watch in the direction indicated by arrows on the inside on the watch strap and re tap them in once you have removed the correct number of links. Just remember to do it carefully as to not lose any pieces as without the pins will not be able to put it back together.

The bars which hold the clasp/fastner to the links are usually string loaded bars which just needs a small penknife. Use the cutting edge of the knife to pull down and out at one end but be careful they tend to spring/fly out. you can also try depressing the direct end of a spring bar if it the visable and not enclosed while pulling carfully sideways to encourange it to move.

Hope this helps

[Binky]

Thank you. Very helpful - I will bit the bullet and have a go at the weekend!