If you’ve recently bought a new watch or your old one doesn’t fit right anymore, it may be time to understand how best to adjust it to fit better. You can easily resize watches with adjustable straps with clasps or holes to achieve a proper, comfortable fit. Other watches, such as those with metal bands, may require links to be removed. While certain watch resizing methods can be done at home using several basic methods detailed here, it’s best to have your watch resized by a professional jeweler, as making these adjustments incorrectly could damage your watch. Choose the option that works best for you!
DIY watch resizing
Some watch adjustments are best left to the professionals. However, watch band styles may be resized at home with simple tools. Here are a few:
- Resizing a metal link watch: For this method, you will need a pin punch tool (a slender, cylindrical tool with a pointed tip designed to fit into the holes where the pins of a watchband are located) and a small hammer. To resize a metal strap watch, find the removable pins, identifiable by small arrows on the inside of the links. These arrows point to the side where the pins should be removed. If using a pin punch, place it against the end of the pin and gently strike it with your hammer, making sure the pin moves in the direction indicated by the arrows. If you do not have a pin punch, gently hammer the pin directly until it dislodges. Remove or add links to achieve the desired fit, removing an equal number of links from both sides of the watch band for a balanced look. Carefully align the pin with the holes in the watch band links and gently tap the pin back into place using the hammer or pin punch. The pin should fit securely in place without protruding.
- Resizing a mesh watch band: You will need a thin, flat tool such as a small pin or screwdriver for this method. To resize your mesh watch band, start by gently putting the thin tool into the gap between the clasp plate and the watch band. Lift the plate by gently applying pressure downward, pushing the plate away from the watch face. Once the plate is lifted, slide the clasp up and down the watch band to achieve your perfect fit. Before locking the clasp, ensure that the groove on the back of the clasp perfectly aligns with the groove on the watch strap. This step is essential for proper closure. Once the fit and alignment look correct, gently press the clasp plate back down into place, securing the clasp to prevent sliding.
- Resizing an expansion watch band: This method also uses a thin, flat tool such as a pin or screwdriver. To resize your expansion watch band, start on a soft surface to prevent damaging your watch. Decide on the number of links you should remove for your watch to fit better and locate the metal clips that hold each link together. These metal clips will have a cosmetic "cover" over them, which needs to be removed first. Gently insert your thin, flat tool into the gap and carefully bend back the cosmetic tabs, exposing the band's inner workings. Slide the unwanted segment out of the watch band and put the remaining segments back together by lining up the clips and tabs before bending the tabs closed again. Bend the tabs gently, as repeated bending can weaken the metal and cause permanent damage.
- Making micro-adjustments to your watch: Micro-adjustments are a feature found on some watches (such as diving watches, metal link watches, and watches with clasps) that allow for fine-tuning the watch's fit without removing links. To do so, locate the micro-adjustment lever, usually found on the back of the watch clasp. Place a small tool, such as a screwdriver, into the lever’s notch. Gently move the lever back and forth to adjust the band’s length in small increments until the fit is comfortable.
How should a watch fit?
A watch should fit comfortably on your wrist: not too tight, not too loose, but just right. As a good rule of thumb (or…finger?), you should be able to slide one finger beneath the strap. If the watch is too snug, it may be uncomfortable to wear and can leave link indentations on your wrist. And, if that’s the case, it’ll likely look a bit “off,” too. On the other hand, if you can fit more than one finger under your watch band or if your watch is sliding around your wrist, it’s too loose. A loose watch may increase the risk of damage to your watch and the chances of it sliding off your wrist.
Common FAQs
There’s plenty to learn about when, where and how to resize your wristwatch. Here are some frequently asked questions.
How much does it cost to get a watch resized?
As mentioned above, some watch types may be adjusted at home using tools you may already have. For those instances, resizing your watch is essentially free. However, if you’re using the services of a professional, the cost of resizing a watch typically ranges from $10 to $50, depending on the watch’s style and the jeweler’s location. For simple adjustments on metal bands with pins, expect to pay around $10 to $20. Resizing complex watch bands, such as those with screws or rivets, might cost more. Fortunately, some luxury watch brands may offer complimentary resizing services. To avoid any surprises, inquire about resizing pricing before accepting services.
Where can I get my watch resized?
There are several options, ranging from DIY to expert jewelers. Read on to determine which approach is best for you and your watch.
- DIY. If you're comfortable with tools and can follow instructions carefully, you can attempt to resize your watch at home. Follow the instructions above for the specific watch type you want to adjust.
- Visit a jeweler. This is the most straightforward option. Many jewelers offer watch resizing services and have access to all the necessary tools and expertise to adjust your watchband to the perfect fit without damaging the timepiece.
- Contact the manufacturer. Some watch manufacturers offer resizing services or can direct you to authorized repair centers. This can be a good option for high-end or luxury watches or complex jewelry.
How long does it take to resize a watch?
The time it takes to resize a watch can vary depending on several factors, including the type of watch band and the complexity of the resizing. If performing the resizing yourself, as instructed above, the task can usually be completed in 10-20 minutes. If you decide to have a professional resize your watch, expect the process to last a few minutes to a few hours for simple adjustments, depending on the jeweler’s workload. However, more complex adjustments, such as resizing watch bands with screws or rivets or needing to add or remove many links, may take longer - potentially a few days. When scheduling the resizing service, it's always best to inquire about the estimated turnaround time.
What if my watch has a special or unique finish?
If the watchband has a special finish, such as brushed or polished, handle it carefully during resizing to avoid scratching or damaging the finish. To preserve these finishes, avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. When resizing, jewelers often use specialized tools and techniques to minimize contact with the finish and prevent scratches.
What should I do with the links I removed from my watch?
If you remove links from your watchband, storing them in a safe place, such as your jewelry box, in case you need to add them back to your watch later is a good idea.
Whether you’re dealing with a high-end luxury watch or a priceless family heirloom, getting your valuable watches (or any jewelry!) insured with a personal jewelry insurance policy is a good idea. Instead of adding jewelry to a home insurance policy, consider a standalone policy that protects you against theft and potential damage and, unlike most homeowners policies, also protects against disappearances. Check your rate using the button below!
