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Rolex 16200 Hollow End Link Gap: 558B Fix & Spring Bars

vishsam
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My recently acquired 16200 had a wide gap at where the end links meets the case. My watch maker replaced the spring bars and adjusted the end links so it has zero gap. But after just 4 days the gap is present again on one side. Its not as prominent as before but its there. Is there something I can do about this or do I have to accept it since the watch uses hollow end links? I have attached a photo of the watch before adjustment.

IMG_3577.webp
 
southtexas
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what end # are they? Can we see more pics of the ends (incl. backside)?
 
Dan S
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As @southtexas noted, it would be good to check that you have the right end links. But adjustment may be necessary, and it's common to find that there may be some gap depending on the position of the watch and bracelet. So there might be no gap when the watch is lying flat on a surface, but a gap might open up when on the wrist, etc.
 
Canuck
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Another factor might be incorrect spring bars. Rolex spring bars are fatter than typical replacement spring bars.
 
vishsam
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Dan S Dan S
As @southtexas noted, it would be good to check that you have the right end links. But adjustment may be necessary, and it's common to find that there may be some gap depending on the position of the watch and bracelet. So there might be no gap when the watch is lying flat on a surface, but a gap might open up when on the wrist, etc.
They are 558B end links. There is indeed no gap when the watch is on a table. It’s only visible when worn.
 
southtexas
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Assuming everything on bracelet and case is factory Rolex, I’d bet it’s an incorrect springbar (needs to be 1.8mm with shoulders), and/or the wings on the endlinks need adjustment. In any case I’m confident you’ll get it corrected cheaply. Don’t be afraid to try it yourself- if you bend the wings the wrong way, you can always bend them back.

Edit to add- I’m not sure if this needs to be said or not, but just be sure to use the right tools for the job to avoid permanent marks. Beautiful watch by the way, love that smooth bezel with that dial.
Edited:
 
vishsam
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southtexas southtexas
Assuming everything on bracelet and case is factory Rolex, I’d bet it’s an incorrect springbar (needs to be 1.8mm with shoulders), and/or the wings on the endlinks need adjustment. In any case I’m confident you’ll get it corrected cheaply. Don’t be afraid to try it yourself- if you bend the wings the wrong way, you can always bend them back.

Edit to add- I’m not sure if this needs to be said or not, but just be sure to use the right tools for the job to avoid permanent marks. Beautiful watch by the way, love that smooth bezel with that dial.
Will these spring bars fit the 16200?

s-l1600 (1).webp s-l1600.webp
 
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