Rolex

I have responded below next to your comments:

I think most jewelers could repair the gold link. However the stainless link would need to be laser welded and then drilled. It would cost more that buying replacement parts.  I still feel going into any competent watch repair shop will solve your problem at a reasonable cost.

I just need to find one I can trust, as have heard lots of horror stories

The pins are straight forward and watch repair shop will have access to the pins. 

Do you mean a generic high street/shopping mall watch shop or high end/top marque?

If you are so inclined your other alternative is to post a WTB (want to buy) ad on the one of the Rolex forums that have a sales section. Unfortunately there is not one here.  But you may have someone with some parts that they are willing to sell that may fit the bill.

This would be my next step Bill, I have seen links advertised, but not the one that joint the clasp/rivet/bar

Please keep us posted as it would be a shame to leave that watch in a drawer.

I will of course keep you posted

Actually one final idea. Have you considered a nice leather strap. It will give the watch a whole new look. I would go with a vintage strap rather than a modern one. You can also have fun and dress the watch up or down with Nato straps either a solid black one or color combinations. Below is a nice black nato strap super inexpensive and wears great.

This is a great idea, I have seen a few nice ones, and even as a interim measure until I can get my strap repaired. I  like the brown leather with white stitching and also blue leather with white stitching, but would more than likely go for something waterproof as I never take the watch off. 

Only last night I was considering a new strap as a temp measure

The Nato straps are as you say fantastically cheap!

Is there a particular brand to go for, or do they all come from China?

I hope it is OK to post these links

www.ebay.co.uk

www.ebay.co.uk

My only other concern is that my insurance company needs an appraisal every 3 years. I have not done that yet, it was put on my content insurance last year. I was hoping that my original receipt, box, paperwork would be enough, apparently not. I am in a sticky position and I know with a replacement strap the watch will be worth around half its normal value

Once again Bill, many thanks

Best wishes - Gino