Every Submariner generation offers a slightly different adjustment method, and using the right one prevents wear on screws, links, and clasp parts. If you have wondered how to adjust Rolex Submariner bracelet links or use the Glidelock extension correctly, the process is straightforward once you understand the components.
In this guide, you will learn how to size modern Submariners with Glidelock, older models with micro-adjustment slots, and bracelets that require link removal. If you want a secure and comfortable fit that feels tailor-made for your wrist, the steps below will guide you through the entire process with confidence.
Rolex Submariner Bracelet Overview
The Submariner uses the Oyster bracelet, a three link design known for strength, stability, and long-term comfort. Its solid links and robust construction make it suitable for diving, daily wear, and precision adjustment. Every modern Submariner features the Oysterlock safety clasp, which adds an extra layer of security and prevents accidental opening during activity.
Most recent references, including the 124060 and 126610, use the modern Glidelock system that allows tool free micro adjustments in 2 millimeter increments. This makes the bracelet easy to size throughout the day as your wrist expands or contracts.
Older six digit models such as the 114060 and 116610 include an earlier version of Glidelock with fewer increments but still provide reliable on the go sizing. Together, the Oyster bracelet and Glidelock clasp give the Submariner a flexible, durable, and highly adjustable design that maintains both comfort and security.
Tools Needed to Adjust a Rolex Submariner Bracelet
You only need a few tools to size a Submariner bracelet correctly. Having the right items prevents scratches, keeps screws from stripping, and ensures each adjustment feels smooth and controlled.
Below are the essential tools that make the process safe and precise:
- 1.6 mm screwdriver: Required for removing or tightening screw links on modern Oyster bracelets.
- Spring bar tool: Useful for adjusting older Submariner clasps that rely on micro adjustment holes.
- Soft microfiber cloth: Provides a safe surface for the bracelet and prevents metal from rubbing against a hard table.
- Non-slip work mat: Keeps screws from rolling away and reduces the chance of accidental drops.
- Loctite 222 (optional): A low strength thread locker that some watchmakers use to prevent screws from backing out. Only apply sparingly and with care.
With these tools prepared, you can adjust the bracelet safely without risking damage to the case, clasp, or screws.
How to Adjust a Rolex Submariner Bracelet Using Glidelock
The Glidelock system is the easiest way to size modern Submariner bracelets. It provides smooth, incremental adjustments without the need for tools, making it ideal for daily wrist changes due to heat or activity.
1. Open the Oysterlock Clasp – Lift the safety lock, open the clasp fully, and expose the Glidelock track inside.
2. Pull Up the Glidelock Track to Release the Rack – Grip the inner sliding section of the clasp and lift it gently. This releases the rack so the bracelet can move freely.
3. Slide the Bracelet Forward or Backward in 2 mm Increments – Move the bracelet inward for a tighter fit or outward for a looser fit. Each click equals roughly 2 millimeters of adjustment.
4. Push the Track Down Until It Clicks Back Into Place – Press the Glidelock track down firmly so it locks into its new position. Ensure it sits flat and secure.
5. Close the Clasp and Check Wrist Fit – Close the Oysterlock and test the bracelet on your wrist. Make sure it feels snug but not restrictive, especially around the inner wrist bone.
How to Use the Fine Adjustment Slots Inside the Clasp (Older Submariner Models)
Older Submariner references, including many 5 digit models and early 6 digit versions, do not have the full Glidelock system. Instead, they use a set of micro adjustment holes inside the clasp.
These holes allow small changes to the bracelet length without removing links:
1. Open the Clasp to Reveal the Micro Adjustment Holes – Lift the clasp fully and look at the inner wall. You will see several small holes that control the position of the spring bar.
2. Use a Spring Bar Tool to Move the Bar to a New Hole – Insert the tool into the notch, compress the spring bar, and slide it into the next hole. Choose an inward hole to tighten the bracelet and an outward hole to loosen it.
3. Ensure the Spring Bar Is Fully Seated – Press gently until you feel the spring bar snap into place. A partially seated bar can slip out and cause the clasp to open while wearing the watch.
4. Close the Clasp and Test the Fit – Close the clasp completely and check how the bracelet feels on your wrist. You may need to move the bar one hole forward or backward to get the most comfortable fit.
How to Remove Links From a Rolex Submariner Bracelet (Modern Screw Links)
Modern Submariner bracelets use solid screw links, which makes resizing secure but requires careful handling. Follow each step slowly to avoid scratching the bracelet or damaging the screws.
1. Lay the Bracelet on a Soft Microfiber Cloth – Place the bracelet flat on a clean cloth so the metal cannot scrape against the table. This keeps the links stable while you work.
2. Use a 1.6 mm Rolex Screwdriver to Loosen the Link Screw – Insert the screwdriver into the screw head and turn slowly in a controlled motion. Make sure the tool fits snugly to avoid slipping.
3. Remove One Screw at a Time to Avoid Stripping – Work on a single link screw per attempt. Removing multiple screws at once increases the chance of dropped parts or uneven pressure on the bracelet.
4. Remove the Link and Keep Screw + Sleeve Together – Once the screw is out, gently pull the link apart. Set the screw and its internal sleeve in a small container so the pieces stay paired.
5. Reconnect the Bracelet Ends – Bring the bracelet back together and insert the screw sleeve through the link. Align everything carefully before tightening.
6. Tighten Screws to Proper Torque – Turn the screw until it feels secure but not forced. Rolex recommends about 5 to 7 cN·m of torque for a safe hold without overtightening.
7. Store Removed Links Properly – Place the extra links, screws, and sleeves in a small envelope or pouch. Keeping them together ensures future adjustments or resale value remain easy.
How to Adjust an Older Submariner Bracelet (Pin and Tube Links)
Older Submariner bracelets such as the 93150 and 93160 use a pin and tube system instead of screws. These links require careful pressure and proper alignment, so work slowly and keep all parts organized.
1. Identify Directional Arrows Under the Links – Turn the bracelet over and look for small arrows stamped beneath the links. These arrows show the correct direction to push the pins out.
2. Push the Pin Out Using a Pin Pusher – Place the bracelet on a firm but soft surface. Position a pin pusher on the pin side indicated by the arrow and apply steady pressure until the pin begins to slide out.
3. Remove the Link and Keep Pin + Tube Together – Once the pin is free, pull the link apart and carefully remove the small internal tube. Keep the pin and tube paired to avoid mixing components.
4. Insert Tube Into the Reattached Link – When reconnecting the bracelet, slide the tube back into the center of the link. This stabilizes the pin and ensures smooth articulation.
5. Push the Pin Back In Until Fully Flush – Align the links, insert the pin from the opposite direction of the arrows, and press it in until it sits perfectly flush with the link surface. A misaligned pin can cause the bracelet to separate under tension.
What Not to Do When Adjusting a Rolex Submariner Bracelet
Avoiding the wrong techniques is just as important as using the correct adjustment steps. Each warning below prevents damage to the bracelet, clasp, screws, and overall structural integrity of the watch.
- Do not force the Glidelock track if it feels stuck. Excess pressure can bend the inner rack or misalign the clasp components. Always lift the track fully before sliding it.
- Do not loosen multiple screw links at once. Working on more than one screw increases the risk of stripped threads, dropped sleeves, or uneven tension across the bracelet.
- Do not use non-Rolex screwdrivers or poor fitting tools. Incorrect tools slip easily and damage the screw heads, making future adjustments difficult or impossible.
- Do not adjust the bracelet while wearing the watch. This puts strain on the clasp hinge and increases the chance of scratches or dropped parts.
- Do not twist or torque the bracelet sideways. Applying lateral force can weaken the solid link structure or create play between the joints.
- Do not push pin and tube links from the wrong direction. Ignoring the directional arrows can deform the pin, expand the link hole, or crack the tube.
- Do not overtighten screw links. Too much torque can strip the threads or break the internal sleeve, compromising link strength.
- Do not test adjustments with a loose clasp. Always fully close the Oysterlock before checking fit to ensure the bracelet sits correctly on the wrist.
Useful Tips for Adjusting a Rolex Submariner Bracelet
These additional practices make sizing safer, smoother, and more precise. Each tip is unique to Submariner bracelets.
- Measure fit at different times of day. Your wrist expands in heat and contracts in cooler conditions, so check the fit morning and evening before deciding how many links to remove.
- Center the clasp on your wrist before finalizing adjustments. A balanced clasp improves comfort and prevents the watch from rolling to one side during wear.
- Use Glidelock for micro sizing before removing links.Many owners remove links too early even though small adjustments could have delivered the perfect fit.
- Keep links evenly distributed between both sides of the clasp. Removing too many links from one side can cause discomfort and uneven bracelet tension.
- Check screw heads for residue or dirt before tightening. Even small particles can prevent proper seating and lead to screws backing out over time.
- Test the bracelet fit with gentle wrist movement, not force. Rotate your wrist naturally to see how the bracelet behaves instead of pulling or twisting it unnaturally.
- Mark the original link position before changing anything. A piece of tape or a quick photo helps you return to the starting point if the new fit feels off.
- Clean the bracelet after resizing. Fingerprints, oils, and small metal shavings from screw links can settle between links after adjustment.
When to Ask a Professional to Adjust a Rolex Submariner Bracelet
Some adjustments are simple to handle at home, but certain situations call for a trained watchmaker to avoid unnecessary damage. Professional help ensures the bracelet remains structurally sound and the watch stays protected.
Seek assistance if the screws feel unusually tight or refuse to turn, since forcing them can strip the heads or damage the internal sleeves. A watchmaker also provides safer handling for older bracelets, especially pin and tube systems that require precise pressure to avoid bending components.
It is also best to visit a certified technician if your Submariner has recently been exposed to saltwater, sand, or impact and you are unsure about the condition of its links or gaskets. A quick inspection ensures everything sits correctly before further adjustments.
Wrap Up for a Better Bracelet Fit
Adjusting a Rolex Submariner bracelet becomes simple once you understand how each system works and how small changes affect comfort on the wrist. A careful approach protects the clasp, links, and screws while helping the watch sit securely throughout the day. Thoughtful sizing also improves balance, making the Submariner feel more natural and stable when worn.
With steady, controlled adjustments and regular checks, you can maintain a fit that feels precise and comfortable in any condition. Give your Submariner the attention it deserves, and it will continue to wear effortlessly every time you put it on.
FAQ About Adjusting a Rolex Submariner Bracelet
Should I remove links or just use Glidelock?
Use Glidelock for small, daily wrist changes since it adjusts in 2 millimeter increments without tools. Link removal is better when the bracelet consistently feels loose or tight. A stable long-term fit usually requires combining both methods, with Glidelock handling the fine tuning afterward.
Which side of the Submariner bracelet should links be removed from?
Most adjustments are done on the six o’clock (clasp) side to keep the clasp centered on your wrist. A centered clasp improves comfort and balance. However, if the bracelet becomes uneven, removing one link from each side may create a better distribution.
Do all Submariners have Glidelock?
All modern six digit Submariner models feature Glidelock. Older references, especially five digit models, use micro adjustment holes inside the clasp instead. Early six digit versions may have an older Glidelock system with fewer increments but still offer tool free sizing.
Are Submariner screws the same size as other Rolex bracelets?
Most modern Oyster bracelets, including the Submariner, use 1.6 millimeter screw heads. However, some non-sport Rolex models may use different screw lengths or tolerances. Using the wrong screwdriver can damage the slot, so always confirm fit before turning any screw.
Should I take my Submariner to a Rolex center for sizing?
Professional sizing is recommended if screws feel tight, if the bracelet uses pin and tube links, or if you prefer precise torque control. A Rolex center or authorized watchmaker ensures screws are seated correctly, the clasp remains centered, and the bracelet stays structurally secure.
