How to Remove Links from a Wrist Watch

If your wrist watch is too big on you, you can adjust the size by removing a few links. Follow these instructions to quickly and easily create a perfect fit for your watch.

Step 1 – Try on the Watch

In order to get the size you need, you need to wear the watch as normal. The best way to know what size you need is to pinch the middle of one of the arm bands. This will tell you exactly how many links to remove in order to make the watch fit correctly. Note that you will not remove the exact links you pinched. Instead, you will remove an equal amount of links from each band so that the watch will not look lopsided.

Step 2 – Locate Removable Links

On either side of the clasp, every watch has about 3 links that can be easily removed. These are characterized by a small hole on either side of the link. Count out how many holes there are on your watch to determine if there are enough removable links.

Step 3 – Remove Links

To remove links, use the jewelry punch. This will easily fit into the small hole of the watch. When you push the punch into the space where the hole is, you will notice a peg going out the other end. This is the peg that holds the unit in place. Divide the number of links being removed by 2. This is the number of links you will remove. Count down the links and remove the second peg to remove only the links you need for the perfect fit.

Step 4 – Reattach Links

Use the same peg you pushed out to connect the links to the other end that you removed. Repeat the same process on the other side. Make sure to try the watch on to see if the right amount of links have been removed. The watch should be somewhat loose, but if the watch can easily turn on your wrist, the band is still too loose. You can remove one link at a time in order to make sure you have a perfectly fitting watch. Hold on to the links in case you sell the watch or pass it on to a family member.