How to Adjust Your Watch Band: A Step-by-Step Guide Using the Abingdon Link Remover

A link remover is the fastest way to resize your watch band at home, whether you own an Abingdon watch or any brand with removable links.

Updated 26 Aug 2026 4 min read 7 sections

Abingdon Co Abingdon watches — Abingdon watches$1,075.00Image from the merchant

A link remover is the fastest way to resize your watch band at home, whether you own an abingdon watches or any brand with removable links. This simple tool lets you adjust metal watch bands without paying for professional sizing, and takes just a few minutes once you know the basics. We’ll walk you through the process, show you which bands work with this method, and explain how to maintain your watch after adjustment.

What Is a Link Remover and Why You Need One

A link remover is a small, single-purpose tool designed to push out the pins that hold watch band segments together. Unlike a lint remover or generic tool, a link remover has a tapered end sized precisely for watch pins, making it far easier to work with delicate metal bands than improvised alternatives.

Abingdon Co Nadia watch — Nadia watch$940.00Image from the merchant

If you’ve just bought a nadia watch or jordan watch and it’s too loose, or you’ve inherited a female pilot watch that needs tightening, a link remover eliminates the need for a jeweler visit. You can grab the code at Abingdon Co to get 10% off, including their own link remover and other tools.

How to Use a Link Remover: Step-by-Step

Adjusting your watch band is straightforward once you have the right tool. Here’s the process:

Abingdon Co 20mm alligator watch band — 20mm alligator$159.99Image from the merchant

Secure your watch. Place it on a clean, soft surface (a cloth or mat) with the band facing up. This protects the watch face and keeps it stable while you work.
Identify which links to remove. Count how many links are too loose on your wrist. For a 20mm alligator band or standard metal segment, you typically remove one to three links total.
Position the link remover. Insert the tapered end into the small hole on the side of the pin you want to remove. You’ll usually see a small indent or hole marking where the pin sits.
Push gently but firmly. Apply steady downward pressure to drive the pin out. It should come free smoothly; if it’s stuck, you may have the wrong angle. Stop and reposition rather than forcing it.
Remove the link. Once the pin is out, pull the link segment away from the band. Set the pin somewhere safe (a small container helps).
Rejoin the band. Slide the ends of your band back together, then reinsert the pin by reversing the process. A link remover tool can also gently tap the pin back in.
Check the fit. Put the watch on and verify it feels snug but not tight. You should have about a half-inch of play.

Repeat for additional links if needed. This method works on any metal band with removable pins, from dress watches to sports styles.

Which Watch Bands Work With a Link Remover

Not all watch bands can be adjusted this way. A link remover works best on:

Metal link bands (the most common style on dress and casual watches)
Bands with visible pin segments that connect each link
Watches like the nadia watches collection and abingdon watches that use standard removable-link construction

Abingdon Co Jordan Taylor collection — Jordan taylor collection$790.00Image from the merchant

Bands that don’t work with a link remover include leather straps, rubber sport bands, and mesh bracelets. If your jordan taylor collection watch has a leather strap, you’ll need to adjust the buckle or clasp instead, or have it professionally fitted.

Comparing Link Removal Methods

Method	Time	Cost	Skill Level	Best For
Link remover tool	5-10 min	$10-25	Beginner	Metal bands at home
Jeweler sizing	24-48 hrs	$40-100	None (professional)	Valuable or complex watches
Watch link removal tool (jeweler-grade)	5-10 min	$50-200	Intermediate	Frequent adjustments

A link remover is by far the most accessible option if you own multiple watches or need to resize one now. The link remover from Abingdon Co is affordable and works on standard pin-style bands.

Caring for Your Watch After Band Adjustment

Once you’ve resized your band, keep your watch in good condition:

Clean the band. A soft brush removes dust and debris from the links. Use a damp cloth for metal bands, and air dry fully.
Inspect the pins. Make sure all pins sit flush and the links feel secure. If a pin looks loose, gently tap it back with your link remover.
Store safely. Keep your watch in a drawer or case when not wearing it. This prevents the band from being stressed or accidentally resized.
Adjust seasonally if needed. Swelling from heat or humidity can change how snugly your watch fits. A link remover makes seasonal tweaks simple.

What to Avoid When Using a Link Remover

A few common mistakes can damage your watch or band. Don’t force a stuck pin, as this can crack the link or bend the remover itself. Never use a hammer or heavy tool on a link remover, as most are made for hand pressure only. Avoid removing too many links at once, it’s easier to take out one more than to add one back if the fit isn’t right.

If you have a luxury watch or one with special band construction, check the latest price at Abingdon Co to see if they carry a professional-grade link remover, or consider having a jeweler do the work instead.

Who Should Use a Link Remover

A link remover is ideal for anyone who owns metal-band watches and wants to avoid jeweler fees. Whether you’re adjusting a jordan watch from the Abingdon Co collection or a female pilot watch, this tool pays for itself after one or two uses. It’s especially useful if you wear multiple watches and need to swap them between different wrist sizes, or if you’ve recently gained or lost weight and your watch no longer fits.

Even if you only adjust one watch in your lifetime, a link remover is cheap insurance against expensive professional sizing, and it’s faster than waiting for a jeweler appointment.

Questions

Can I use a link remover on any watch band?

No, a link remover only works on metal link bands with removable pins. Leather, rubber, and mesh bands cannot be adjusted this way. Check whether your watch has visible pin segments before purchasing a link remover tool.

How many links should I remove to resize my watch?

Start by removing one link and trying the watch on. You should have about half an inch of play between the band and your wrist. Add or remove more links as needed, but most people adjust by one to three links total.

Is a link remover the same as a lint remover?

No, they are completely different tools. A lint remover removes fabric fibers, while a link remover pushes out watch band pins. Using the wrong tool can damage your watch.

What if the pin won't come out with my link remover?

Stop and reposition the link remover at a different angle rather than forcing it. The pin may be slightly off-center, or you may need a link remover designed for your specific watch band size. Never use a hammer or excessive force.

Can I use a link remover on my Abingdon watch or Nadia watch?

Yes, both Abingdon watches and Nadia watches use standard removable-link construction and work with any standard link remover, including the one from Abingdon Co.

Do I need a special link remover tool, or can I use any small tool?

A proper link remover tool is tapered specifically for watch pins and far safer than improvised tools. Using a screwdriver or pin can slip and damage the band or watch, so investing in a real link remover tool is worth it.