A Better BB58
Get on-the-fly micro-adjust for your Black Bay 58.
In my opinion, the Black Bay 58 is one of the best watches for value you can get today. There’s not much to criticize.
As a sister company, you’re getting near Rolex quality, a distinctive style and heritage; all at a fraction of the price.
Except for two things, an on-demand adjustable metal bracelet and no half links. So, if your wrist changes between hot and cold temperatures you’re out of luck.
However, there is a reversible and seamless way to resolve all issues by retrofitting your Black Bay 58 bracelet with a Rolex EasyLink. Read on, to learn how to have your Tudor cake and eat it too 🙂 !
Manufactured Solution
I’m pleased to have found Steel Reef has a simple manufactured Extension Link. Their solution solves not only for the Black Bay58, but also, Black Bay GMT, Chrono, 36, 41, Harrods, Heritage Ranger and more.
The Steel Reef solution is simpler, cleaner and much more cost-effective than my retrofit.
The banner photo is courtesy of Bark and Jack. If yo’ve not seen them, check out Adrian’s Video reviews and Instagram.
The Rolex EasyLink
The Rolex EasyLink, an unsung luxury hero, is a link hidden under your clasp.
The genius behind it… with a simple click – and no tools – your bracelet adjusts 5mm longer or shorter.
The video on the right demonstrates how this works.
Can I Just Buy Yours?
Steel-Reef has a manufactured solution. I’d now recommend buying from them over doing this yourself.
Tools
Get a Watch Tool Kit or screw drivers small enough for your bracelet.
Spring Bar Plier (only if you need to remove the EasyLink from the Oyster Bracelet).
Drill Press, Grinding Machine (or 2000 Grit Sharpening Stone), Wire Gauge Drill Bits and Cutting Oil.
Digital Calliper, optional, but very useful to ensure grinding is even on each side.
Specialized wire Drill Bits. The final bit is 1.8mm, but you should buy a set and keep on incrementing until the EasyLink pin it fits.
Parts
Extra BB58 removable link from your set.
Alternatively, purchase extras from eBay. Get better pricing knowing that all the links from the Heritage M79230N in 16mm also works.
Spare Rolex 16mm wide EasyLink, preferably with a Brushed Finish. I’ve successfully sourced from the 77200 Bracelet (904L Steel) meant for the Rolex Explorer I 214270.
You’ll have to hunt on eBay, and watch Forums. Rolex will not easily sell you this part. To even start the discussion for any Rolex part you must first own and show your actual watch.
Here’s the End Result
Once installed, you’ll be able to adjust 5mm shorter or longer by folding the EasyLink and snapping it in or out. Unlike other systems, such as the Rolex Glidelock, the EasyLink adds no extra bulk, and is pretty much invisible.
You also get a “half-link” with the connecting 8mm (pin-to-pin) BlackBay 58 link replaced with the 5.5mm (pin-to-pin) Rolex EasyLink.
Finally, this retrofit is safe and reversible – except for the one extra BB58 link you modified.
Rolex EasyLink
316L Steel Rolex EasyLink just removed from its Explorer I reference 214270 bracelet.
Expanded and Contract
This animated image shows the BB58 bracelet 5mm adjustment in action. One link to rule them all…
Reversible Retrofit
Remove the EasyLink and modified BB58 link to go back to the way it was.
Direct Retrofit Approach
The Direct Retrofit connects your BB58 directly to the Rolex EasyLink. This approach gives a seamless look, but with a minor caveat around the last microhole.
EasyLink Folded
In this position, the bracelet decreases by 5mm
Modify Your BB58 Link
Progressively enlarge using wire guauge drill bits.
Modify a Spare BB58 Link
This is the only “destructive” part of the procedure. Take one of your spare BB58 bracelet links and use a Drill Press with some cutting oil to increase the hole size. It needs to be increased just enough to fit the EasyLink pin.
Though hardly visible, on my first go, this step resulted in minor scuffs to the bracelet and a bit of bulging on the BB58 link.
I was able to resolve the bulging with only occasional small scuffs, with a jury rigged wood clamp, better drill bits and protective tape.
File the BB58 to Fit
The “male” part of the BB58 link need to be filed down to fit the Rolex EasyLink.
So it does not take forever, I start with a machine grinder and then touch up by hand with a knife sharpening wet stone.
You really need a steady hand here and make sure to wear your protective glasses.
Use a wet stone with a variety of grit in the range of 2000 and then fine polish.
Make sure to tape off the parts you want to avoid accidentally grinding.
Knife Sharpening Stone
Purchase a full stone as pictured and use the edge of the stone to file your link.
EasyLink Extended
In this position, the bracelet increases by 5mm.
Hand Crafting is Imperfect
When grinding, it’s impossible to get the link perfectly reduced evenly and straight, and nor should you try – it’s mostly hidden.
But, if you do care, I recommend practicing with some aftermarket links first.
I’ve now worked on a total of 10 links now, and though my last set are slightly better, they’ll never be perfect.
The best approach is to combine machining and finish hand grinding, while using a Digital Caliper tool. This takes a bit of time, with trail and error. I developed a technique for myself where it’s pretty seamless, but I still get varying grades of quality every time.
Microhole Limitation
Seamless Look Caveat
One caveat is that you cannot use the EasyLink if you move to the last microhole.
This is because the rivets on the Black Bay link would interfere when the Rolex Easylink is folded to the shortened position.
The width of the Black Bay 58 clasp is not wide enough to accommodate the Black Bay 58 rivets on the link.
To help with figuring out if this works for you, the BB58 End Link (that connects to the clasp) is 8mm. The EasyLink in the folded position will be 5.5mm or 10.5mm if expanded.
Adding or removing a standard BB58 link is 9.75mm.
If you are the 0.1% that requires the last shortened position (I initially thought I was), there is an alternative approach.
Easylink Shortened Position
Moving to the last microle (marked in the picture with the yellow circle) is not possible as the revit will not fit.
Attach with Rolex Oyster Link Approach
If you don’t mind the look, you may use a regular Oyster link, just before the EasyLink, to allow you to use all the microholes.
But keep in mind,
- You may want to source a 316L steel Oyster link – yes it is possible.
- The Oyster link is 9.7mm pin-to-pin.
I almost went this route of adding a Rolex Oyster Link. After the modification, my bracelet ended up being in the sweet spot – hot or cold – it did not need adjusting, so I started to think maybe using the 3rd position to make it super, super, comfortable.
But, winter came, and my wrist shrunk (just that bit) and the EasyLink came to the rescue.
Minor Difference in the Steps
The one difference, is that you’ll need to either file down the BB58 link a little further. Alternatively, I’ve not tried this, but you might be able to file away at the the Rolex Oyster link instead.
And of course there’s the minor aesthetics difference in the link near the clasp.
Replace the BB58 End Link
Marked in pink is the BB58 End Link being replaced.
Putting it Together
Disassembly
First, fit the EasyLink to your modified BB58 link.
Detach the BB58 End Link that attaches to the clasp. When doing this step make sure to be in a clean space and if you can mitigate the spring bar suddenly flying out. Also detach from the rest of the links.
Detach your last link as it will be replaced with the modified BB58 link.
Modified BB58 Assembled to EasyLink
This is my second prototype.
Underside Assembly
Notice how the EasyLink is flipped.
Assembly
It’s counter-intuitive, so, I’ve tried to show through the photos which side of the links face-up versus face-down during assembly.
Attach the EasyLink and to clasp. Use the spring bar included with the EasyLink*.
*I’d like to use the spring bar included with the BB58. However, the BB58 spring bar does not fit into the EasyLink without modification and even then, may not work after that. I’ll update here if I ever figure it out.
Bag, label, and put away your original BB58 spring bar and End Link; ideally store with your Box and Papers.
Finally, attach the modified BB58 link to the rest of the bracelet.
I suggest, following the best practices at the official Tudor and Rolex service centres, and use a low strength thread locking glue (per the video). The glue will ensure, the screw will not come out over time.
How to Apply Loctite
Watch enthusiast forums tend to recommend purchase “Loctite Blue 221 or 222” low strength. There really is next no difference btw 221 and 222.
Besides, the video, here are my key tips for applying,
- If stuck removing, loosen Loctite glued screws with a blow dryer.
- Take time with a wooden toothpick to clean residue off screw and link before applying new glue.
- Waiting 24 hours before wearing is recommended to allow the glue to cure.
This is the best tutorial video I’ve found showing the process.
Test Carefully
Make sure the EasyLink to the clasp is nice and snug. Test over something to softly catch your watch with.
There is a slight difference in clasp fit between the Tudor’s Spring Bar and the EasyLink Spring heads. The Tudor stick’s out slightly more. But if you use the Tudor Spring bar, the EasyLink won’t snap into place because the Tudor Spring bar is thinner.
It’s never, or anyone so far, had any problems using the Rolex EasyLink Spring bar.
Perfection!
Once you try this you’ll never want to go back.
My wife finds this mildly amusing, but if Google is an indication of reality, I can say I’m the first person to blog about this retrofit, and the 2nd person to get it working on the Internet.
I’m sure many watch collectors would understand; this feeling, of having a well crafted timepiece that is also unique onto itself.
By the way, those with:
Rolex Oyster Perpetuals, can do the same, but even easier, as it’s a perfect no-modification fit. I also made this change to my Rolex Oyster Perpetual 34mm 114200 (which I’ll blog about if there’s interest).
Tudor Black Bay 36, only kinda works. There’s a bigger grinding difference of the BB36 custom link (which is ugly) and the clasp microholes are too small, and it slips out with the EasyLink Spring Bar. I can switch to the BB36 Spring Bar, but then the links no longer snaps in place.
Chaining a Rolex Half-Link
BB58 Link to Rolex Half-Link to Rolex EasyLink
The extension allows Vnce to leveage all three microholes and get the perfect first for his wrist.
Fellow enthusiast on “Batch 1”, Vince, further innovated on the BB58 Retrofit and EasyLink.
Vince found he could chain to the retrofitted BB58 link a Rolex half-link for his particular wrist size.
This extension also allowed Vince to leverage all three microholes.
Unfortunately, Vince does not recall where the half-link came from as he found it in his drawer.
Vince suspects his half-link came from a Submariner.
Uncle Seiko After Market Half Link
Recently (Oct 2020) Uncle Seiko introduced aftermarket half links at $27 USD.
This is a good option for wrists that do not change significantly when hot or cold.
There are two nice write-up at The Rolex Forum and Watchuseek.
If you go with this option, install the Uncle Seiko link right at the clasp rather than how it is picture by Uncle Seiko.
Uncle Seiko BB58 After Market Half Link
Image from Uncle Seiko.
Alternative Drilling 4th Micro Adjustment Hole
For those who are only looking for a no extra parts “half-link” for fit. I also looked into an alternative approach, discussed in this YouTube video, to drill a 4th micro adjustment hole in the clasp.
This is a good option for wrists that do not change significantly when hot or cold. And in a pinch, you can use a toothpick to change the micro adjust.
When taking this approach here are some key considerations,
- You still need to sacrifice a BB58 link or replace with an Oyster Link by removing the rivets.
- Is is not as easily reversible (buying a new clasp is not easy).
- There may be trouble if you go to a Rolex Service Center. Rolex may refuse to service or force you to replace with a “proper Rolex Tudor” proper clasp.
If this sounds like the way to go for you, I worked with Ironcastle to create a blog about his steps. We converted his post instructions at WatchUseek.
Fourth Micro Hole in BB58 Clasp
Image by boywithabubblegun from TZ-UK Forum.
Special Mention
Banner Photo – courtesy of Bark and Jack. If yo’ve not watched them, check out Adrian’s Video reviews and Instagram.
Project Team Batch 1 – Thanks for joining the club and it allowed me to refine this article way better. Bill your enthusiasm and positivity was the life to making this project possible! Frédéric, really cool story and I can see why your BB58 will have some special significance; hopefully there will be some unique characteristics. Chester, great to meet a kindred spirit who cares about the details. Vince, neat idea to use the Submariner half-link. This was done over Winter 2020.
Project Team Batch 2 – Wow, that was way tougher due to COVID restrictions. Special thanks to everyone for your patience. Wrapped up May 18, 2021. And will be the only run for 2021.
Next Batch – I do not plan on doing any batches until Spring/Summer (2022). And, I’m continuing to try to solve this in more seamless and cost-effective way. Still feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] to find out more.
Better Options in the Future? – The 2021 Black Bay 58 Bronze M79012M-0001 (at select boutiques) introduces the T-Fit rapid adjustment system. It’s a new design that allows you to adjust 5 positions up to 8mm. However, I’d not hold my breath for the BB58 steel. The Rolex EasyLink was introduced in 1996 but only became available to the Rolex Oyster Perpetual (Rolex’ similarly tiered model) 26 years later in 2022.
I’m interested in purchasing one of your BB58 retrofit sets! I’m one of those people who can’t get a perfect fit on their BB58 bracelet. It’s either just a tad too small, or a tad too large. I’ve been a member of TRF since 2012.
Hi Axel, great work. How much would it cost for this,please. Also, just out of interest, can the faux rivet be filed off the side of the BB58 link so it will go into the final micro adjustment hole please?
Hi Winst, yes the faux rivet can be filed off and thne you can use all micro adjustments. This is covered in the article done with Ironcastle’s 4th Micro Adjustment approach.
And I’ve emailed you on the options and pricing.
Hey, looking for some more details on the kit. Can you drop me an email? Thanks!
Hi there! I’ve struggled with fit on my bb58! So much so that I’ve only worn leather straps! I would really appreciate it if you can make me one. I’m on WUS, CWC, TRF and IG. Thanks a million.
Hello Axel,
If you still have an Easylink available, I am very, very interested !
Thank you.
Interested in one of these! Please let me know.
Just an update – received my custom Easylink and installed it on my BB58 bracelet! I can finally enjoy a perfect fit on my wrist! I’m very satisfied. Here’s a wrist shot:
I am extremely interested and happy to have found this resource. Are there any spots still available? I am a longtime dive watch enthusiast.
Thanks for joining the project Paul. You got the last option 4 slot!
Hi I would like to purchase the BB 58 Easy link if available.
Hi Dagan,
There is availability. But, I just tried emailing you and got a bounce back. It’s your solutions******@shaw.ca email.
Hi, would this work too on a BB36 (the clasp is also 16mm wide) ?
BB36 kinda works but there are quite a few hacks. I’ve been able to create one successfully – but with some shortcomings – and will document it on another post.
Could you do this for the Black Bay Heritage ? (so the 41 mm version not the BB58)
It may be possible. I’ve sent you a note to discuss further.
Hey Axel, hope you are doing well! I’m pretty interested in purchasing one of these custom easylinks, I’ve had my BB58 for nearly a year now, but have kept it on a Nato strap as I couldn’t find a good fit for the bracelet. Are there any spots left?
P.S, I am a longtime member of WatchUSeek
Hi Lewis, I did the same thing. Wore my nato for a year and half until I made this retrofit. I’ve sent you an email with the participation details.
I’m interested in purchasing one! I’m having the problem of who can’t get a perfect fit on the bracelet.
Hi SK, I’ve sent you an email with the participation details.
Hi Axel. I am interested in your easylink solution. Shoot me an email with the details if you have a slot available. Thanks and have a good one!
Hi Max, I’ve sent you an email with the participation details.
Hi Axel, I’m interested in a set please. I just picked up a new BB58 blue and I’m I can’t get a good fit so ordered the nato strap for it! I have to use a half link on my EXP1 and Sub, so this would be a perfect solution for my BB58!
Hi poidog, I sent you a note and Feb 28th is the last day to sign-up and send a deposit.
Hey EW, have you ever tried to put in a rolex half link into the bb58 bracelet? Does that work and solve the problem? (less flexibility but fixing the issue with the fit!?)
Greetings. Stellar work. I’d like to get on the next list please. My SN on WUS is *****(for privacy). Plenty of references and posts on there. Let me know how you would like me to proceed?
Hi Yag, I’ve sent you a note.
Very interested in purchasing a set! Please let me know if still available.
Hi Fernando, I’ve marked you down for notification for option X.
I’m extremly interested in getting the materials from you to get my BB58 bracelet retrofitted. I NEED that micro-adjustment option!
@Axel Brass: i would love to get an Easylink for my BB58 to fully enjoy this beautiful watch! any chance to get one any time soon?
Hello Axel Brass. Would you still 1 available? By the way, I also sent you an email yesterday. Awesome job!!
Thanks for reaching out Tyrell. I’ve responded and you’ll be part of the first zero-down-payment batch.
Hey Axel! Just email you, as I’m interested in this if you still have one available. Cheers!
Hi Axel. I am interested in your easylink solution. Pls shoot me an email with the details if you have a slot available. Thanks and have a good one!
Easy link arrived (very swiftly) and fitted to the watch. Solves the only problem I’ve ever had with this watch compared to rival brands (tool less on the go adjustment). Looks like it was made for the watch, you can’t tell the difference extended or retracted. Amazing quality and a nice person to chat with by email as well. See photos for how it looks/fits. Just need to wait for the long overdue English summer to arrive (not holding my breath) to try it out in anger.
Rich
Alex,
Is there any chance of this, or the new solution on the BB Pro GMT fitting on the 79360 BB Chrono?
Hi axel. I’m wondering can this mod be done for the black bay gmt? Taper is 22mm to 18mm I think? So a 18mm easylink if they exist.
Hi Cillian, I’ll check the measurements this weekend. Having said that, just today, I added a link to Steel Reef, who recently came up with a working manufactured Black Bay GMT Extension Link solution.
Phenomenal stuff from Axel – thank you! Helped me get an easy link style microadjust for my Black Bay 36. Much improved fit!
Hi Axel, I am thinking of buying a Steel Reef extension for my newly purchased BB58. Do you or anyone else have any feedback / reviews etc on this option? Many thanks Regards Tim
Hi Tim, I’m just busy at work with year-end, but I’ll be posting a detailed review (before end of Nov), against my custom links and experiences I’ve gather from others who’ve messaged me. Stay tuned!