Most shops will be pretty reluctant. I have had one offer but they generally don’t like to. It’s worth a shot to ask and at worst they’ll just say no. But I agree that you should look to pick something that comes with half links and/or sufficient micro adjust / on-the-fly adjustment. I have learned the hard way it is possible to fall in between link sizes if there aren’t enough micro adjustment holes!

I have realised that like many things in watch collecting, you are going to have people on all ends of the spectrum. I’ve learned in my own journey that I am on the fussy end of the spectrum - I will never again buy any watches that don’t allow a precise fit (and additionally I prefer on the fly adjustment).

It is a good thing, it automatically filters out butterfly clasps so I will never be tempted by a Nautilus or RO. 😄