PPF Patek 5711/r Link Removal Request

[Bullflo3]

So it’s well known that PPF Patek links are relatively hard to remove, but my local watchsmith was not able to remove the two links from my 5711r that I need out. I have no tools, nor the know-how to even attempt to remove them myself. So, I’m wondering if any of you out there feel like you can get them out for me. Yes, forum moderators, I know I’m taking the risk of the watch being damaged, or even not returned to me if I send it to the “wrong person.” But that's where I’m at with this. It’s either have someone else attempt it or sell the watch as there’s no way I can wear it with all links in place. So if anyone out there State side confidently feels like they can have success in taking these links out, please DM me. I obviously will pay you for your service & shipping.

Here’s the current state of the link removal :

 

[Rainbowkin]

Does anyone have experience with the PF 5711R? You might be able to turn your PPF which is usually better with their dials into a donor and sell it and pass the problem to someone else.

 

[Bullflo3]

I seen a few people post theirs on the dedicated thread to the watch (fitted to their wrist & all), so I know it can be done. Selling it is my last resort as I truly do like the watch.

 

[Rainbowkin]

I feel you and wish you can get it properly sized. This is not the first time I am seeing someone opening a thread here on their PPF bracelet adjustment issue.

 

[Rainbowkin]

https://forum.replica-watch.info/for...elet-re-sizing
Some previous discussion on the same matter.

 

[Bullflo3]

https://forum.replica-watch.info/for...elet-re-sizing
Some previous discussion on the same matter.

Thanks. Some good information in there but like I said I don’t have any tools or experience with link removal & I’m not willing to make this my first attempt, ha. The oil bath idea is nice, but probably won’t play well with plated gold. Hopefully one of those guys see this post and can get me situated!

 

[Rainbowkin]

https://www.rwg.bz/board/index.php?...ippe-57111a-010/&tab=comments#comment-2187657
This also shows how to resize.

 

[Bullflo3]

No takers? Willingly to pay a premium for a successful attempt.

 

[GBB_19NHS]

i didnt know this was an issue with ppf. I just bought a set but sounds like it wont be straight forward. looking at the same ppf pp as well atm. Im surprised the watchsmith could not do it, no other watchsmith around?

 

[Bullflo3]

i didnt know this was an issue with ppf. I just bought a set but sounds like it wont be straight forward. looking at the same ppf pp as well atm. Im surprised the watchsmith could not do it, no other watchsmith around?

Unfortunately not where I live. I reached out to Strodda here on the forums so hopefully he can help me out as it’s a nice looking watch that I’d like to get some wear time with.

 

[GBB_19NHS]

let me know if that is successful as i am looking to get the same watch as well and dont want to be in the same situation of not being able to shorten the bracelet. although where i live there are many watchsmitsh around

 

[Glaude]

How about removing the plastic first ? That's the first time I see anyone attempting to remove links without removing the protective film first

 

[Bullflo3]

How about removing the plastic first ? That's the first time I see anyone attempting to remove links without removing the protective film first

To prevent scratching I’m sure. Nonetheless, that photo was from their initial attempt. Plastic ended up coming off during the process.

 

[Glaude]

To prevent scratching I’m sure. Nonetheless, that photo was from their initial attempt. Plastic ended up coming off during the process.

I've always used the same method for all pin system : pin pusher (they throw them for free with straps sometimes and are worth nothing on Amazon) and a little jeweler hammer, but any little hammer would work. You carefully put the pin in the hole and you tap it lightly until it get out, you can wiggle the link a bit if it appear to be stuck.

Even the worse watchmaker should be able to do that

 

[razr321]

I had to use tweezers to pull my pins out. Super annoying process with the PPFs. They look great though!

 

[kevBquick]

I’ll take it on if no one is willing I did my PPF v3 white dial just a little bit ago no issues. I have all tools necessary. This shouldn’t be an issue if you do.

 

[Bullflo3]

I’ll take it on if no one is willing I did my PPF v3 white dial just a little bit ago no issues. I have all tools necessary. This shouldn’t be an issue if you do.

PM sent!

 

[Erinoush]

I've always used the same method for all pin system : pin pusher (they throw them for free with straps sometimes and are worth nothing on Amazon) and a little jeweler hammer, but any little hammer would work. You carefully put the pin in the hole and you tap it lightly until it get out, you can wiggle the link a bit if it appear to be stuck.

Even the worse watchmaker should be able to do that

i am really wondering what kind of watch smith fails into doing this operation.... I would personally not give him much credit in doing anything else on my watch as this is such a simple operation.

 

[Bullflo3]

I’ll take it on if no one is willing I did my PPF v3 white dial just a little bit ago no issues. I have all tools necessary. This shouldn’t be an issue if you do.

Kevin took care of me! Definitely wasn’t as easy as people assumed (two watchsmiths attempted prior to Kevin). After a broken tool, some link grease and a ton of patience, he was successful. I guess the issue was the rg plating was done without sealing off the link holes properly causing the gold to get inside - essentially making the links rock solid.

 

[Rainbowkin]

Kevin took care of me! Definitely wasn’t as easy as people assumed (two watchsmiths attempted prior to Kevin). After a broken tool, some link grease and a ton of patience, he was successful. I guess the issue was the rg plating was done without sealing off the link holes properly causing the gold to get inside - essentially making the links rock solid.

The gold diggers fixed the problem!