What Causes Bracelet Stretch?
Bracelet stretch occurs when components rub against each other over time. This friction gradually wears away tiny parts of the material. After years of wear, this can significantly affect the integrity of the bracelet, as illustrated in the photo below:
In the picture, you can see a stark contrast between a new pin and link and those from a Rolex Jubilee bracelet that has been worn daily for over 25 years. The worn link (bottom right) is close to breaking point, which could cause the watch to fall off unexpectedly. To prevent this from happening, let's look at how to reduce bracelet stretching.
How to avoid bracelet stretch
There is no magic trick that will stop the stretching process.
Stretch will happen while wearing your watch.
Luckily, there are a few things you can do to slow down the stretching process.
1. Keep your bracelet clean
As you can see in the picture below, your bracelet can get quite dirty. The dirt in your bracelet will function as sanding paper and will accelerate the wear of the material.
Give your watch bracelet a wash from time to time using an ultrasonic bath or a soft toothbrush with warm soapy water.
2. Don't wear your watch too loose.
A loose watch allows the band to move excessively, increasing friction between the links. By adjusting your watch to a comfortable fit, you will reduce unnecessary movement and consequently the rate of stretching.
By keeping your bracelet clean and ensuring that it fits well, you can significantly reduce stretching and prolong the life of your treasured watch.
If you still have got questions left about bracelet repairs or would like to book a restoration, then feel free to get in touch.