Over the past few years, the definition of a watch has undergone significant evolution. Today’s watches often come integrated with fitness trackers and smartphones, yet they still can’t compete with the charm of old classic watches. The reason lies in their unique watch dials, brand value, limited editions, and rare availability. However, even if you own a classic watch, you may not enjoy wearing it simply because it doesn't fit your wrist properly. But don’t worry, there is a solution: extra links. Now, what exactly are these extra links, and when can you use them? Let’s find out in this article.
When Do You Need Extra Links?
Extra links are the additional components of a watch bracelet that extend its length. They are used to adjust the size of the bracelet to fit the wearer's wrist comfortably. Here are some common scenarios where adding extra links makes your watch fit perfectly on your wrist.
Consistent Wrist Marks
If your bracelet is too tight, regardless of how long you wear your watch, you will notice deep marks or indentations on your wrist. The bracelet not only makes wearing the watch uncomfortable but also restricts blood flow, causing temporary numbness. In such scenarios, watch bracelet adjustment using extra links makes sense.
Wrist Swelling
You might not be aware, but depending on body temperature, activity levels, and hydration, your wrist size can naturally expand or contract. If your watch fits well in the morning but begins to feel tight by the afternoon or evening, this indicates that you may need a looser fit.
Post-Purchase Adjustment
When you purchase a watch online or receive it as a gift, chances are high that the original bracelet size does not fit your wrist correctly. Manufacturers ship watches with a standard length, assuming users will adjust the size themselves. You simply need to add a few links to make it suitable for your wrist.
Frequent Traveller
As mentioned earlier, your wrist size changes with temperature fluctuations. For example, if you travel to a place with warm weather, your wrist size may swell due to expanded blood vessels. Conversely, in colder temperatures, the opposite occurs. Therefore, if you frequently travel to warmer climates, you may need extra links for your bracelet.
Wearing Over Clothing
Many people prefer to wear their watch over a shirt cuff or sleeve, especially in colder months or for fashion purposes. If you are one of them, you may notice your watch bracelet fits snugly against your bare wrist and feels too tight when worn over clothing. This can create pressure points and cause discomfort over time. Therefore, adding extra links is recommended to allow smooth wrist movement.
Weight Gain
If you have recently gained weight or are working on your fitness and experiencing muscle growth in your wrists or forearms, your previously well-fitting watch may start to cause trouble. Remember, even a slight change in wrist size requires additional circumference in the context of the bracelet.
Poor Clasp Engagement
If the clasp of your watch does not close easily or pops open during movement, it is a sign that your watch bracelet is too tight. When there is too much tension between the two ends of the bracelet, the clasp will not align properly, making it difficult to fasten. In some cases, it may even cause premature wear and tear on the clasp's functioning. Adding extra links can help overcome this issue.
Vintage Watches
If you have inherited a watch from your family member or purchased it from a vintage collector, such watches come with a pre-sized bracelet that is customised based on someone else’s wrist. Since these timepieces hold sentimental value, instead of replacing the bracelet altogether, you may consider adding extra links or, if possible, opt for a custom-made one.
Medical Conditions
Some people may experience medical conditions, such as arthritis, wrist inflammation, or water retention, as a result of certain treatments. These issues can make the wrist swell unpredictably, making it painful to wear a tightly fitted watch. In such cases, adding extra links to the Tudor bracelet extension provides the watch with sufficient slack to avoid applying pressure to sensitive areas.
How to Expand a Watch Bracelet?
You can easily add extra watch links to your bracelet by following the steps below:
• Step 1: Get a flat-head screwdriver that matches the screw size (usually 1.6mm for Rolex).
• Step 2: Look at the side of the bracelet; the removable links will have small screws.
• Step 3: To prevent scratches or losing screws, work over a soft, light-coloured cloth.
• Step 4: Turn the screwdriver counter-clockwise to remove the screw. Set it aside safely.
• Step 5: Insert the extra links you have, aligning them properly.
• Step 6: Reinsert the screws and tighten them gently but firmly.
• Step 7: Once done, wear the watch to ensure it fits correctly.
Conclusion
Adding an extra link to your watch bracelet is important for comfortable wrist movement. Additional links also make wearing a watch easier if you have a medical condition that results in swelling of your wrist. Not only that, if you love experimenting with fashion by wearing the watch over sleeves, extra links can be handy.
Looking to buy extra links for your vintage watch? Explore a wide range of options at Oysters Jubilee.
