Watchkeeping 101 – The Right Procedure for Watch Link Removal

Watches have become more than just a way to tell time, with the many collectors and hobbyists. The craftsmanship behind many watches has taken the center spotlight for many people who appreciate and recognize it as an art form. Others like watches for the status they bring, while a good majority just like them for their style and functionality. 

No matter the reason, one thing holds true for every watch enthusiast: they have to fit perfectly on your wrist. One way to do that is to remove the links and tighten them to fit you, which is a task that requires a steady hand and focus. Take these simple tips and steps to guide you through the process.

1. Prepare Your Tools and Workspace

Before getting started, you first need to prep the space where you plan to take it apart. It is essential to work on a clean surface so no mix-ups can happen during the process. 

Another thing that you have to concern yourself with is the table. To take out the pins, you will most likely need to use a hammer. Avoid denting your table by putting a soft mouse pad over your workspace. This will minimize denting and control the noise. 

Being organized is also crucial when taking apart anything as small as a watch. Have a small container or an empty pillbox ready to put the tiny parts in so they don’t fall off the table. 

It should also go without saying that you need the proper tools for the process. 

2. Do Some Examining

The whole process starts by removing the wristband. Identify how many links you need to take out from the wristband and what parts you might need. It’s important to note that not all watch parts are interchangeable.

Make sure that the parts that you have also match the brand of the manufacturer of the watch. If you’re working with Seiko watches, Crystaltimes USA has an array of Seiko mod parts you can use for them. 

3. Removing the Links

After all the preparation is done, it is finally time to remove the links carefully. Follow these steps accordingly.

First, look around the watch’s wristband and spot the small arrows on the band’s backside. These are the arrows that point to the direction of the cotter pins to come out. 

Second, place the watch down on the holder with these arrows facing downwards. From here, get the hammer and lightly tap the cotter pins with a push-pin tool. Continue to tap until these pins stop moving.   

Once these are out, you can use your fingers to pull out the links yourself. If you don’t have fingers delicate enough to hold onto these tiny pins, you can use small pliers and keep them in the pillbox you set aside. 

Conclusion

Tinkering with a watch’s links is delicate work that needs proper care and total concentration. Even the most experienced people take caution in this hobby. Removing watch links needs to be done carefully so no part goes missing, especially watches that don’t come cheap. 

Are you looking for some spare watch parts? Crystaltimes USA is a shop that supplies the best watch mod parts—cases, case backs, bezels, bezel inserts, crowns, chapter rings, dials, and movements. Our Seiko mod parts are top quality, perfect for every watch enthusiast. Check out our shop to find the right parts for you!