Removing permanent links

[Beckster]

Hi guys,

I recently acquired a 14060 and 16710. Very happy with both. I have small wrists, about 6', so the 5 digits feel more comfortable compared to the newer 6 digits pieces. However, because the number of removable links is lesser than the 6 digit bracelets, the clasp doesn't sit nicely in the middle of my wrist.

My question is

1) will removing a permanent link or 2 lower the value of the watch in the future when I want to sell it off
2) if I sell it later would it be an issue for the new owner to add more links to the bracelet

Appreciate any comments, especially from guys who have done it before. Many thanks!

[enjoythemusic]

Originally Posted by Beckster

1) will removing a permanent link or 2 lower the value of the watch in the future when I want to sell it off

(Sigh) The moment you do anything with it the value might change. Removing permanent link(s) is not that difficult provided you have the right tool. Of course the bracelet can always be put back to stock form should the need arise (sale, etc).

2) if I sell it later would it be an issue for the new owner to add more links to the bracelet

No issues, they can add links as they so choose.

[Spoonage]

I don’t think it’ll necessarily devalue the watch, but it may be passed by people looking to get one with less to have to do i.e. have to spend additional $, time, effort, to get permanent links added back in by an RSC or other watchmaker. If there were this vs. another with all permenant links in at similar price and condition, I’m sure most would go full perm linked. Alternatively you could get the links added back in if / when you decide to sell.

[mtgjr]

I would never consider buying a pre-owned Rolex that is missing one of its permanent links. So, de facto, in my mind the watch is devalued if a perm link has been removed. I'm certain that I'm not alone on that score.

That said, if it were my wrist and my watch, and I needed to remove a perm link to make it fit properly, well then in that case, removing the link would actually increase the watch's value....to me. So are you more concerned with the value of the watch to you, the owner, or to some potential future owner down the road?

[bobernet]

Buy an extra removable link, and I doubt most would notice or care as long as the bracelet can be restored to original length. I think Mike (kilyung) had to do this to his platinum DD to get a good fit.

Better to reduce resale and enjoy the watch than live with plastic covers on your couch. ;-)

[Beckster]

Tks for all the quick replies guys. Much appreciated. Yeah I think I'll definitely go get it done as I'm quite a stickler for these things and the clasp being off centre sure bugs me. Tried some suggestions of turning the bracelet around from the 6 to 12 o'clock position but still didn't quite work for me. Will RSC do it? Or will they refuse to 'destroy' the bracelet?

[Tools]

Removing a permanent link is, and has been for decades, the method for fitting older bracelets to smaller wrists.. There are likely thousands of bracelets modified in such a way.

It does not "devalue" the watch in any way. Of course, there are some buyers who may not want a modified bracelet, but there are plenty who do.

With any change, it is up to you to enjoy your watch the way you want. Even if it did cost a hundred bucks or so at some future date, isn't that money will spent, or is it better to not enjoy your watch just to make somebody else happy.

[watchwatcher]

Completely agree with Larry.

However, I would make the case that this is precisely why I prefer the 6 digit bracelet.

[Beckster]

Thanks Larry. Well said. Comments appreciated. Looking forward to getting it done soon to have the perfect fit and enjoy the watch more than I already am now.

[paltak]

Had a similar issue. Before you remove permanent links try wearing it on your dominant arm first, which is likely slightly larger. It might seem weird at first but I definitely got a better fit without removing a permanent link.

[fskywalker]

Go for it!


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[Rocket_Man]

Isn't that first permanent link a tapered link? Maybe this depends on the bracelet model. So if that link is later replaced by a removable link won't this be noticeable?

[Tools]

Originally Posted by Rocket_Man

Isn't that first permanent link a tapered link? Maybe this depends on the bracelet model. So if that link is later replaced by a removable link won't this be noticeable?

There will be a slight step from the taper to the removable link. It is not something that anybody would notice if it isn't pointed out.

You could simply taper the links left and you would have the latest Oyster Bracelet design because that is all that they did; removed one permanent link and re-tapered what was left, then slapped on a new number.

[Beckster]

Hi guys. Just an update. Thanks to all who provided feedback. Went to RSC Singapore to remove 1 permanent link from the 6 o'clock position. Clasp now sits comfortably in the middle. Glad I did it. The service was complimentary and only kept my watch for a day to do it. Tks guys!



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[enjoythemusic]

Congrats, looks great!

i <heart>
SG

[Beckster]

Originally Posted by Rocket_Man

Isn't that first permanent link a tapered link? Maybe this depends on the bracelet model. So if that link is later replaced by a removable link won't this be noticeable?

They won’t remove the first permanent that’s attached to the clasp. They’ll remove the second one instead. And yes, it’s hardly noticeable, unless you know what to look for and count the number of links.

From, Happy Guy.


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[rossi46]

Thanks for the update, OP.

I'm thinking of getting a 5-digit Rolex from my girlfriend and, due to her small wrists, would need to take out a "permanent" link. Good to know it's such an easy process and looks great.

[Beckster]

Originally Posted by rossi46

Thanks for the update, OP.

I'm thinking of getting a 5-digit Rolex from my girlfriend and, due to her small wrists, would need to take out a "permanent" link. Good to know it's such an easy process and looks great.

My pleasure sir. Good luck with your search!


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[brandrea]

Originally Posted by Tools

Removing a permanent link is, and has been for decades, the method for fitting older bracelets to smaller wrists.. There are likely thousands of bracelets modified in such a way.

It does not "devalue" the watch in any way. Of course, there are some buyers who may not want a modified bracelet, but there are plenty who do.

With any change, it is up to you to enjoy your watch the way you want. Even if it did cost a hundred bucks or so at some future date, isn't that money will spent, or is it better to not enjoy your watch just to make somebody else happy.

[kwingy]

Good question and glad you got it sorted. I too have the same issue as I have small wrist and like to wear a 4 link configuration on the 6 o'clock side which is easily achieved on the 6 digit references but not on the 5 digits because of the 4 perm links. On the 16710 I recently acquired I just managed to find the sweet spot through the pin hole adjustment on the clasp.

[Cloitus]

I have 6` wrists and just got a permanent link removed on my explorer 1. Totally worth it. Clasp is centred and can easily get the permanent link back on when selling. Did you end up getting 1 or 2 removed?

[Beckster]

Originally Posted by kwingy

Good question and glad you got it sorted. I too have the same issue as I have small wrist and like to wear a 4 link configuration on the 6 o'clock side which is easily achieved on the 6 digit references but not on the 5 digits because of the 4 perm links. On the 16710 I recently acquired I just managed to find the sweet spot through the pin hole adjustment on the clasp.

Without removing the permanent link? If yes then good for you.


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[Beckster]

Originally Posted by Cloitus

I have 6` wrists and just got a permanent link removed on my explorer 1. Totally worth it. Clasp is centred and can easily get the permanent link back on when selling. Did you end up getting 1 or 2 removed?

Just 1 although I did consider 2. But now with just 1 removed it's already better so I'll leave it at that.


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[Cloitus]

Originally Posted by Beckster

Just 1 although I did consider 2. But now with just 1 removed it's already better so I'll leave it at that.


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Yeah, my thoughts were exactly yours. Anyways, i'm so happy I did it and wish I did it earlier!

[kwingy]

Originally Posted by Beckster

Without removing the permanent link? If yes then good for you.


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Yes although at times the watch doesn't always totally sit flush and flat but its definitely not a deal breaker before as I had 5 digit references and you get use to it.

Can I ask, did RSC charge you for removing the extra link?

Thanks.

[Cloitus]

Originally Posted by kwingy

Yes although at times the watch doesn't always totally sit flush and flat but its definitely not a deal breaker before as I had 5 digit references and you get use to it.

Can I ask, did RSC charge you for removing the extra link?

Thanks.

They do not.

[kwingy]

Originally Posted by Cloitus

They do not.

Cool thanks for confirming.

[Beckster]

Yup I can confirm they don't charge as well.


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[danicycle]

Originally Posted by Cloitus

I have 6` wrists and just got a permanent link removed on my explorer 1. Totally worth it. Clasp is centred and can easily get the permanent link back on when selling. Did you end up getting 1 or 2 removed?

Can you really get the permanent link back on when selling? The watchmaker I asked about this same issue (I have 6'' wrists) said there was no going back.

[997.2]

I removed a link from my 14060m on the 6' side. Had to call MULTIPLE DC area AD's until one bit. Lenkersdorfer iirc. Paid like $30 and in a week they took it off. Look thru my post history for more pics and info.

As for the lost value - you bought the watch. You want to enjoy it? Or not? Don't worry about that.

edit: https://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=388928