A split pin is the unsung hero of every metal watch bracelet. Once you've resized your strap, this small stainless steel pin is what locks the links back together — and ours are made to hold tight, link after link.
Product overview
This split pin (also called a slotted pin) is a watch repair part specifically designed to join the links of a steel bracelet after resizing. Cut with a longitudinal slit that allows the pin to compress slightly as it passes through the link hole, it grips the inner walls under spring tension and prevents accidental loosening. Available in diameters of 0.80 mm, 0.90 mm and 1.00 mm and lengths from 4 mm to 23 mm, it fits the vast majority of steel watch bracelets on the market.
Technical specifications
- Material: 304 stainless steel, polished finish
- Diameters available: 0.80, 0.90, 1.00 mm
- Lengths available: 4 mm to 23 mm
- Type: split / slotted pin, friction fit
- Compatibility: resizable steel link bracelets
- Application: bracelet link reassembly after sizing
When to use it
Use split pins whenever you shorten or lengthen a metal watch bracelet on a Seiko, Citizen, Tissot, or similar reference that uses pins (rather than screws) to retain links. After removing the required number of links with a pin punch, you'll reinstall the bracelet end-piece using a fresh pin. If your existing pin is bent, sheared, or no longer holds the link, replace it before wearing the watch again.
How to install / use
- Place the bracelet on a bracelet holder block, slot side aligned with the link hole.
- Insert the split pin tip into the link, slit facing the bracelet's inner curve.
- Tap gently with a small watchmaker's hammer or use a manual pin pusher.
- Drive the pin in until it sits flush with both sides of the link.
- Flex the bracelet to ensure the joint articulates freely and the pin holds.
Quality & origin
Each pin is checked for diameter consistency, length and slot geometry. Our French warehouse ships within 24 hours; the stainless steel is sourced from certified European suppliers for reliable long-term wear.
FAQ
How do I know if my bracelet uses split pins?
Push out one pin and inspect it: a longitudinal slit running along most of the shaft means it's a split pin. Smooth pins or screws indicate a different system.
Can I reuse the original pin?
It's possible if it's still straight and the slit retains tension, but we recommend a fresh pin to avoid future link separation.
What tool do I need?
A pin punch and a bracelet holder block. Both are available in our watch tool category and in our bracelet resizing kits.
Shipping and returns
Orders placed before 3 PM on business days ship the same day from our French warehouse. Tracked delivery covers all EU countries, the UK and Switzerland, with typical transit times of 2 to 5 business days. Returns are accepted within 14 days of receipt for any unopened item, in line with EU consumer law.
Care and maintenance
To prolong the life of your watch and its fittings, rinse stainless steel parts under fresh water after exposure to salt, chlorine or sweat, and dry them with a soft cloth. Avoid contact with harsh solvents, perfumes and abrasive cleaners. Inspect your spring bars or pins at least once a year and replace them at the first sign of bending, surface rust or loss of tension. A small investment in fresh fittings is the cheapest insurance against losing your watch.
Why buy from us
We are a French-based watch parts specialist with real warehouse stock, fast tracked shipping across Europe, secure payment and responsive customer support. Our team can help you choose the right diameter and length if you are unsure. Every order is dispatched within 24 hours on business days, with options for tracked or express delivery depending on your country.
