In praise of the Rolex Half Link

[adg31]

I bought my 116000 OP around 18-months ago on the strength of the clean blue dial, simple 3-6-9 markers and brushed case/ bracelet.

However, out of the box it was always just that bit too tight. An extra link was too much so it didn't get too much wrist time - even though when it did I was getting almost +/-0 spd on accuracy.
The other week I saw Watchfinder advertising the Rolex Half Link on eBay as also fitting the OP 116000 so took the plunge for £25.00.

What a difference it makes to the comfort of the watch on the wrist. What puzzles me is quite why Rolex won't make it available via AD's to their customers or include it as standard on the OP without the EasyLink?
10/10 to the Watchfinder team for their help in getting me sorted out!


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[Swiss Mad!]

I assume this half link wasn't originally designed for your OP - it's just lucky it happens to fit?
Do you know which watch is it designed for?
Cheers

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[REFZ]

The Submariner comes with a half link.

[adg31]

Originally Posted by Swiss Mad!

I assume this half link wasn't originally designed for your OP - it's just lucky it happens to fit?
Do you know which watch is it designed for?
Cheers

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I think it's the Submariner 116610 which means that it is a perfect match in terms of size and brushed finish.
Ironic that they put a Half Link with the most versatile clasp in the range - and nothing with the least flexible!


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[AboutTime]

Originally Posted by REFZ

The Submariner comes with a half link.

As far as I know, only stainless steel Subs come with a half-link. Rolex should also supply half-links with TT and PM Subs but, instead, they make you buy one if you need it.

[Swiss Mad!]

Originally Posted by adg31

I think it's the Submariner 116610 which means that it is a perfect match in terms of size and brushed finish.
Ironic that they put a Half Link with the most versatile clasp in the range - and nothing with the least flexible!


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Lol - yes makes you wonder!

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[6161HH]

Originally Posted by adg31

Ironic that they put a Half Link with the most versatile clasp in the range - and nothing with the least flexible!


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I had wondered the same thing myself for quite some time. It’s a mystery.



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[CMAGS84]

Originally Posted by adg31

I think it's the Submariner 116610 which means that it is a perfect match in terms of size and brushed finish.

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I have the exact same watch and just ordered the half link from WatchFinder. Should be here in a week or two.

I know these are pre-owned links, but how was the condition of the link when you received it? We’re there many scratches? How was the condition of the screw pin? Any photos would be appreciated!


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[Ssunnylee24]

I walked in to my AD and asked to order me a half link for my Explorer 214270.
First they said they couldnt order a part that didnt belong to my watch (Rolex didnt “make” a half link for the Explorer) but I told him its same bracelet link from the Sub and they decided to order one for me.
Now the fit is spot on.

[Colin G]

I order one every time I buy a new Rolex. One for my Sub (never got one) and one for each Explorer I own.

As mentioned above, the Sub 1/2 link fits the Explorer and Explorer II.

[Rocky Hockey]

A little off topic but that 116000 with blue dial sure looks great! Catches my eye every time I see it.


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[stateman]

I did the same (via Watchfinder eBay) for both the Explorer and GMT ii. Makes the fit perfect for me. Added it on the 12 o'clock side of the bracelet so the brushed center is hidden altogether on the GMT unless the ezlink is open (which is rare).

[CMAGS84]

Originally Posted by stateman

I did the same (via Watchfinder eBay) for both the Explorer and GMT ii. Makes the fit perfect for me. Added it on the 12 o'clock side of the bracelet so the brushed center is hidden altogether on the GMT unless the ezlink is open (which is rare).

Were you happy with the condition of the link? I was a little concerned with ordering a half link from eBay and whether or not it will be authentic Rolex, but from the eBay reviews and what I’ve read, Watchfinder looks legit.


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[brandrea]

Yep half links are often the cure for the right fit.

I even added and bought one for my Dblue

[stateman]

Originally Posted by CMAGS84

Were you happy with the condition of the link? I was a little concerned with ordering a half link from eBay and whether or not it will be authentic Rolex, but from the eBay reviews and what I’ve read, Watchfinder looks legit.


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Very happy. It is used, but being brushed and mostly hidden, it didn’t really matter to me. Matches the bracelet perfectly. Watchfinder is a legit company. Prices ain’t cheap but certainly less than Rolex oem.

[CMAGS84]

Originally Posted by stateman

Very happy. It is used, but being brushed and mostly hidden, it didn’t really matter to me. Matches the bracelet perfectly. Watchfinder is a legit company. Prices ain’t cheap but certainly less than Rolex oem.

This is great to hear, thank you! Looking forward to getting the half link.


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[Finslayer83]

Originally Posted by stateman

I did the same (via Watchfinder eBay) for both the Explorer and GMT ii. Makes the fit perfect for me. Added it on the 12 o'clock side of the bracelet so the brushed center is hidden altogether on the GMT unless the ezlink is open (which is rare).

gotta link?

[No SUBctitute]

That is beautiful. I don't know why Rolex ruined the 39 dial with those hideous colored hour markers. It just ruins that beautiful blue dial.

Originally Posted by adg31

[CMAGS84]

Amazing what a half link can do. Received my genuine Rolex half link from WatchFinder Shop on eBay in excellent condition. I highly recommend WatchFinder if you need an extra link.

My 116000 is extremely comfortable now. It just feels balanced. I have 6 and a half links on the 12 side, and 4 links on the 6 side, with the micro adjustment set to the middle.


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[ppalasthira]

Originally Posted by adg31

I bought my 116000 OP around 18-months ago on the strength of the clean blue dial, simple 3-6-9 markers and brushed case/ bracelet.

However, out of the box it was always just that bit too tight. An extra link was too much so it didn't get too much wrist time - even though when it did I was getting almost +/-0 spd on accuracy.
The other week I saw Watchfinder advertising the Rolex Half Link on eBay as also fitting the OP 116000 so took the plunge for £25.00.

What a difference it makes to the comfort of the watch on the wrist. What puzzles me is quite why Rolex won't make it available via AD's to their customers or include it as standard on the OP without the EasyLink?
10/10 to the Watchfinder team for their help in getting me sorted out!


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Looks great. I might need one for my Daytona.

How much length does a half link add?

It surely looks more than 5mm.


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[MoreThanaWatch]

Originally Posted by AboutTime

As far as I know, only stainless steel Subs come with a half-link. Rolex should also supply half-links with TT and PM Subs but, instead, they make you buy one if you need it.

Is anyone able to confirm or deny if a half link for the TT Sub (116613) is actually available ?
I have been told by an experienced watchmaker that Rolex don't manufacturer them due to the gold not providing enough strength in the half link size.
Whilst the glidelock provides the ability to fine tune the fit a half link would be perfect for my wrist size and shape to help centre the clasp and provide a more comfortable fit.
If any members have a modern TT Sub and have purchased a half link, I would love to see a picture to prove it exists !

[CMAGS84]

Originally Posted by ppalasthira

Looks great. I might need one for my Daytona.

How much length does a half link add?

It surely looks more than 5mm.


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Not sure, but I’m guessing 5-7mm.


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[hawkeye43]

That watch is a real stunner! Great pick up!