What should you do if your watch bracelet is too long?

　　It is very common for a new watch strap to be slightly too long, as this is designed to accommodate a wide range of users. For standard stainless steel bracelets, you simply need to remove a few links. For leather straps, minor adjustments are sufficient. So, what should you do if your watch strap is too long?

　　How to adjust a watch strap that is too long

　　Before removing any links, measure roughly how many need to be taken out to achieve the correct fit:

　　1. Temporarily detach the bracelet from the clasp so that it can lie flat on the table. This will facilitate the next steps. It is best to place a piece of velvet cloth underneath to protect your watch.

　　2. Once the bracelet is laid flat, use a pointed tool (I use small scissors) to locate the pin by following the arrow on the back of the bracelet. Press against the small circular protrusion and push firmly in the direction of the arrow to eject the pin.

　　3. After removing the appropriate number of links, you can reassemble the bracelet. The pin hole may be a bit tight; find something with a moderate hardness (I use a plastic lighter) to tap it gently, or push firmly to reinsert it. Remember to reattach the clasp as well.

　　Note: You must first ensure that the bracelet links are connected by pins or split pins (also known as cotter pins) rather than screws. ★★★

　　How to use a link removal tool: Place the watch bracelet into the groove of the tool, align the removal pin (also known as a pusher pin) with the hole on the side of the bracelet, and turn the handle clockwise. See below for details. Since the removal pin is a consumable part, please keep it perpendicular to the bracelet pin, otherwise it will easily break. Purchase price: 3 per unit.

　　Note:

　　1. Most removable bracelets have arrows on the back; you can push the pins out in the direction of the arrows.

　　2. If there are no arrows, observe the end of the pin in the hole. If it is flat and has a tight slit, we will call this End A. The other end is circular, which we will call End B. You need to push the pin out from End B towards End A.

　　How to replace the removal pin: Rotate the handle of the tool counter-clockwise, pry off the ring at the end, and separate the handle slightly to remove the damaged pin.

　　Then, install the new removal pin, snap the ring back on, and you are done!

　　Precautions for watch maintenance

　　Shock resistance: A watch is a very precise instrument, and a tiny space of no more than a few centimetres can contain hundreds of parts. Damage, loosening, or displacement of any of these components can cause inaccurate timekeeping or even stoppage. The impact on the appearance is the detachment of five elements: markers, hands, pins, gems, and the crystal.

　　Magnetic resistance: Avoid approaching magnetic fields, such as placing the watch near electrical appliances that generate magnetic fields (like speakers, refrigerators, computers, etc.) or magnetic objects (like magnets, mobile phones). In addition, women's handbag snap buttons and men's mobile phone case magnetic closures may magnetise the watch, causing inaccurate timekeeping or temporary stoppage.

　　Water resistance: Generally, watches have water-resistant functions, but if used improperly, the watch glass easily develops water vapour, becoming hazy and unclear. In cases of severe water ingress, moisture seeps into the movement, which easily rusts and damages the movement, shortening the watch's lifespan. Therefore, experts suggest that when water enters a watch, you should not merely take the simplest approach of air-drying it; you should also have the watch cleaned, lubricated, and serviced to protect the movement from damage.

　　After a period of time with scratch-resistant watches, we will find that their originally smooth and glossy appearance is completely unrecognisable, with various scratches covering the crystal, bezel, and bracelet. Those that once made us shine are now so dimmed that they can only be left behind in the dark corners of a drawer. Therefore, we have to raise our awareness of scratch prevention.