Sizing a Royalguard 200 bracelet means measuring your wrist, removing equal links from each side, then using the micro-adjust clasp.
Learning how to size a 200 watch bracelet is straightforward once you know which links to remove and how to keep the clasp centered. The Royalguard 200 from Imperial Watch Co. ships with a stainless steel bracelet that typically fits wrists up to 200mm — about 7.9 inches — so most people need to remove several links. If you’re shopping for one of these dive watches, browse our curated selection of top-rated 200 watches to compare models and prices.
What Is a 200 Watch Bracelet?
The term refers specifically to the metal bracelet on the Royalguard 200 dive watch made by Imperial Watch Co. It’s a stainless steel link bracelet with a micro-adjust clasp, designed for the Royalguard 200’s 40mm or 42mm case. The factory sizing targets wrists between 150mm and 200mm (roughly 6.0 to 7.9 inches).
If your wrist is under 150mm, the bracelet will need significant link removal. If it exceeds 200mm, the standard bracelet will likely be too short unless you use a strap extension.
Tools You’ll Need
Gather three basic tools before you start — the whole job takes about ten minutes once you have them ready.
- Spring bar tool — detaches the bracelet from the watch case without scratching the lugs
- Push pin tool — drives the link pins out cleanly
- Jeweler’s hammer — gives stubborn pins a gentle tap when the push tool can’t budge them
A holding block keeps the bracelet steady, though a folded cloth works fine. You can find complete watch repair kits online for under $15.
How Many Links Should You Remove?
The number depends on your wrist circumference. Remove an equal number of links from the 6 o’clock and 12 o’clock sides to keep the watch centered. If you end up with an odd link to remove, take it from the 6 o’clock side only.
| Wrist Circumference | Total Links to Remove | Remove from Each Side |
|---|---|---|
| 150 mm (5.9 in) | 8 | 4 from each side |
| 155 mm (6.1 in) | 7 | 4 from 6 o’clock, 3 from 12 o’clock |
| 160 mm (6.3 in) | 7 | 4 from 6 o’clock, 3 from 12 o’clock |
| 165 mm (6.5 in) | 6 | 3 from each side |
| 170 mm (6.7 in) | 6 | 3 from each side |
| 175 mm (6.9 in) | 5 | 3 from 6 o’clock, 2 from 12 o’clock |
| 180 mm (7.1 in) | 5 | 3 from 6 o’clock, 2 from 12 o’clock |
| 185 mm (7.3 in) | 4 | 2 from each side |
| 190 mm (7.5 in) | 4 | 2 from each side |
| 195 mm (7.7 in) | 3 | 2 from 6 o’clock, 1 from 12 o’clock |
| 200 mm (7.9 in) | 3 | 2 from 6 o’clock, 1 from 12 o’clock |
Step-by-Step: How to Size Your Royalguard 200 Bracelet
Follow this exact sequence to get a centered, comfortable fit on the first try.
Step 1: Measure Your Wrist
Wrap a soft measuring tape or a piece of string snugly around your wrist where the watch normally sits. Mark the overlap and measure the length with a ruler. Write down the number — this determines how many links to remove. Genteel Handmade’s sizing guide recommends taking this measurement at the end of the day when your wrist is at its largest for a comfortable all-day fit.
Step 2: Detach the Bracelet
Use the spring bar tool to remove the bracelet from the watch case. Insert the forked end between the lug and the bracelet, press the spring bar inward, and gently wiggle the bracelet free. A piece of tape over the lugs prevents scratches.
Step 3: Remove the Correct Number of Links
Seat the bracelet in a holding block. Look for the arrow engraved on each link — this marks the pin removal direction. Use the push pin tool to push the pin in the direction of the arrow until it protrudes from the far side. Grab the protruding pin with flat-nose pliers and pull it out completely. Remove the target number from each side, keeping the count equal per the table above.
If a pin won’t budge, tap it gently with a jeweler’s hammer rather than forcing it. Excessive pressure can deform the link or snap the pin.
Step 4: Reassemble and Test the Fit
Reconnect the shortened bracelet ends and re-insert the pin in the same direction you removed it. Press it flush with the link. Re-attach the bracelet to the watch case using the spring bar tool. Put the watch on and check that the clasp sits centered on the underside of your wrist. You should be able to slide one fingertip between the bracelet and your skin.
Step 5: Fine-Tune with the Micro-Adjust Clasp
Pull up the end link, slide it to the desired hole, and click it back down. This compensates for seasonal wrist swelling or a slightly aggressive link removal. The Oak & Oscar sizing guide notes that this final step is what separates a good fit from a great one.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It Hurts the Fit | How to Fix It |
|---|---|---|
| Removing links from only one side | Watch slides off-center on the wrist | Always remove equal numbers from both sides |
| Pushing pins against the arrow direction | Damages the link or makes removal nearly impossible | Push the pin in the direction of the engraved arrow |
| Removing too many links at once | Clasp won’t close or watch is uncomfortably tight | Start with fewer links, test the fit, then remove more |
| Skipping the micro-adjust step | Fit is off by 1–2mm and feels slightly loose or tight | Use the micro-adjust clasp after link removal for final fit |
| Forcing a stubborn pin with brute force | Deforms the link or snaps the pin | Tap gently with a jeweler’s hammer and try again |
| Not measuring the wrist first | Guessing leads to multiple removal attempts | Measure with a soft tape or string before starting |
| Scratching the lugs during removal | Cosmetic damage to the watch case | Use a spring bar tool carefully or tape the lugs for protection |
Final Fit Check
A properly sized Royalguard 200 bracelet should feel snug without cutting off circulation. Slide one finger between the bracelet and your wrist — if it slides in with light resistance, the fit is right. The clasp rests centered on the underside, and the watch face stays on top of your wrist during movement.
If the fit still feels off, double-check your link count balance. A watch that slides around needs an extra link removed from each side. One that leaves red marks needs a link added back. The micro-adjust handles the last millimeter, not a full link’s worth of gap.
FAQs
How do I know if I removed too many links?
If the bracelet feels too tight or you can’t close the clasp fully, you removed too many links. Re-add one link to each side and try again. The one-finger gap rule is your best guide — if you can’t fit a fingertip between the bracelet and your wrist, it’s too tight.
Can I size this bracelet with very small wrists?
Yes, but wrists under 150mm require removing most of the links. The bracelet is designed for a 150mm–200mm range, so small wrists work fine but the bracelet will be significantly shortened. Keep the removal balanced between both sides and use the micro-adjust for the final fit.
What if I don’t have a push pin tool?
A small paperclip or pin can work in a pinch, but a proper push pin tool gives you better control and reduces the risk of scratching the bracelet. You can find them online for under $10, and most local jewelers will do the sizing for a small fee.
Is the micro-adjust enough to fix a poor link removal?
It compensates for seasonal wrist swelling or a slightly off estimate, not for removing the wrong number of links. Get the link count right first, then use micro-adjust for the final dial-in.
Does the Royalguard 200 require a special sizing tool?
No. Standard watch bracelet tools work on the Royalguard 200. The push pin system is the same one used on most dive watch bracelets in this price range. The arrow markings and pin direction are consistent with industry standards.
References & Sources
- Imperial Watch Co. “Royalguard 200 Bracelet Sizing Tutorial.” Official video showing pin removal direction and micro-adjust operation.