I know what you mean, I also have a 1,5link for my 5712. It really makes the difference when you need it.
My problem is that my wrist size changes a lot between cold and hot weather, even during the day from morning to afternoon. So sometimes I find it difficult to find the right length of the bracelet.
In the past, I used to adjust it myself very often, but ended up breaking a screw and ruining one of the links.
Right now I'm not using the 1,5 link, but let's see if I need it in a few weeks time.