How many links in a Explorer 114270 bracelet links + adjustment advice

[Josephmarro]

Hi all. New member here but long time lurker. I bought my 2003 Explorer 114270 with a 78690 (AD) bracelet from a reputable grey market shop. I've seen articles and forums saying the bracelet on these ref's should have 11 links. I've seen some other sites saying 12. I'm confused! I'm counting 12 on mine plus an endlink but did I count wrong (see photo)? Someone on Reddit is saying that whoever worked on the bracelet did a crap job because there’s 5 links on the 12 side and 7 on the 6 but is that not the way they came out of the box?

Also, the case doesn’t sit center very long on my wrist. Would taking a link out from the 6 o’clock side help that? I know it’s a common issue but I’ve never properly adjusted the bracelet minus some micro-adjustments from the clasp.

Thanks for any and all help!