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How to Adjust Rolex Oysterflex Bracelet

First presented on the Everest gold Yachtmaster 116655, the Rolex Oysterflex is a new addition to Rolex’s collection of bracelets.

With the increased popularity of rubber bracelets on watches, the introduction of a rubber strap for some watches as the official bracelet for those models was a clever move.

However, Rolex doesn’t call its bracelet a rubber bracelet, but instead, in order to be unique, it’s not a rubber bracelet, instead, the bracelet is called the Oysterflex.

The Rolex Oysterflex bracelet is made of Elastomer which is formed from “elastic” and “polymer”. Essentially a general term for natural and synthetic rubbers.  

The Rolex oyster flex bracelet isn’t your ordinary rubber bracelet, and as you would expect from Rolex, it’s nothing else than perfection. To make it sit better on the wrist, Rolex has even made ridges and molded them into the wrist-side of the bracelet.

The Oysterflex bracelet has since it was first released presented on several watches, including the Rolex 116519 LN Cosmograph Daytona. The bracelet adds a sporty feel to the watch, and is very comfortable on the wrist as it is soft, unlike a metal bracelet. In Rolex’s words ”it offers a sporty alternative to metal bracelets without compromising robustness, waterproofness, or reliability.”

Now that we’ve got a better understanding of what it is we’re dealing with, let’s look at how you can adjust the Rolex Oysterflex bracelet because it’s not as given as Rolex metal bracelets. With a regular metal bracelet, you can just remove links, but obviously, you cannot do that with an Oysterflex bracelet.

How to adjust Rolex Oysterflex bracelet

Micro-adjustments.

The first way you can size your Rolex Oysterflex bracelet is by using the micro-adjustments on the clasp.

This can be done in the same way as you can adjust any clasps on a Rolex Oyster bracelet. This is made possible since the Oysterflex bracelet carries an Oyster clasp and not just a regular pin-hole lock system which most of the rubber straps that you buy separately do.

The catch with the micro-adjustments on the Rolex clasp is it only allows for just that – micro-adjustments. More specifically, 7mm of adjustment.

As such, you cannot adjust the Rolex Oysterflex bracelet to a large extent using this method.

So, what is the solution..?

If your Oysterflex bracelet is still too large (it’s seldom too big from scratch) when you’ve made the micro-adjustment on the clasp, you will have to find another approach.

Different sizes of the bracelet

If you purchase a Rolex watch with an Oysterflex bracelet from an Authorised dealer, you’ll have the opportunity to choose between several different lengths of the Oysterflex bracelet when you buy it. Of course, you may need different sizes on each side. With the sizes on each side, you combine to create the perfect fit when you buy your Rolex with an Oysterflex bracelet.

When you buy a watch from an authorized dealer, they will measure your wrist and choose both sides of the bracelet that will make the watch fit your wrist perfectly.

If you don’t buy the watch from an authorized dealer, you will obviously not have this opportunity to adjust Rolex Oysterflex bracelet in the store, since the bracelet will then come on the size of the bracelet that it comes on.

Some people’s natural thought when the band is too big is to cut or punch holes to adjust the Rolex Oysterflex bracelet because there’s a nickel/titanium support inside that you could damage. Additionally, you’ll significantly reduce the value of the watch.

If you haven’t purchased your Rolex watch at an AD, it means that you probably won’t get an Oysterflex bracelet that is optimized for your wrist. As such, you need to buy new pieces of the Oysterflex bracelet. These cost about $175 each, which means about $350 for a complete set that suits your wrist perfectly. If you don’t wish to purchase an official Rolex Oysterflex bracelet, you can always buy a rubber strap from a third-party brand.

2019 Update: Rolex introduces Glidelock clasp for the Oysterflex

At the 2019 Basel watch fair, Rolex introduced yet another way for Rolex Oysterflex-bracelet owners to adjust their Rolex Oysterflex bracelet. And they did so by introducing their praised Glidelock system to the Oysterflex. Read our c omplete guide to the Rolex Glidelock system .

Firstly, Rolex discontinued the Rose gold Yacht-Master 116655 with Oysterflex bracelet and introduced the new reference 126655. The difference was that the watch got the second generation movement – the caliber 3235, but it also received the Glidelock clasp. This clasp extension system enables easy adjustments in 2mm increments of up to a total of about 20mm without the use of any tools. This system has existed on some of Rolex’s dive watches, such as the Submariner, for many years.

Furthermore, Rolex introduced the 42mm Yacht-Master in white gold, a complete version of the Yacht-Master for Rolex, and this watch also features an Oysterflex bracelet with a Glidelock clasp.

Because the Glidelock system is so praised and appreciated, it does not seem unlikely that all Oysterflex-bracelet watches receive this clever clasp system in the future.

If you have more questions about adjusting your Oysterflex, you are more than welcome to contact us!

10 thoughts on “ How to Adjust Rolex Oysterflex Bracelet ”

Thanks for the excellent manual

Do the oysterflex straps follow the same sizing guide for the 126655 vs the 116655? Very good, detailed article.

Yes and no because the new Glidelock clasp is longer but it also offers the ability to adjust the sizing.

Kind regards, Millenary Watches

Hi where can I buy the original Oysterflex strap that you say costs around 350$???

Hi, Contact an official Rolex retailer.

I had to shorten it to my wrist size. Took out the pin from the end of one strap (had to do a bit of manhandling though) and refixed the pin on the third hole and fixed it to the strap end. Working well. If one needs to shorten more, I guess one has to snip of the end where the hole is, so the pin can go into another hole in the rubber end.

Thanks for sharing your experience. Rolex advises opting for the correct size Oysterflex bracelet but some choose to go this route instead.

whatever you do don’t pull the pin out with pliers as shown on a youtube video tutorial, you need to use something to poke it out and maybe use a hammer, i ended up just taking it to my friend’s rolex store and having him do it for me, since i didn’t want to damage the watch.

Purchased a used Daytona Cosmograph with the oysterflex strap E-F and it is slightly tight on my wrist. Do you recommend I get a new band with both the 6 and 12 o’clock sides or just change the 12 oclock section to G. Going from F to G will increase the band size by how much?

Hi, E-F is specified as wrist size 170-180mm. E-G is 180-191mm. You should not have to get a band for both sides. One should definitely be enough.

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Rolex Oysterflex Bracelet – 3 Things to Know

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• How to Set Your Rolex Yachtmaster

Launched in 1992 as a luxury-oriented collection of sports watches, the Rolex Yacht-Master combines the core design and functionality of traditional Rolex Professional models with the added exclusivity of precious metals.

Despite being classified as sports watches, all Rolex Yacht-Master models include the use of either solid gold or platinum, and they can be found in several different case sizes and with a variety of metal options. Additionally, all Rolex Yacht-Master watches share the same core set of features, consisting of three centrally-mounted hands for displaying the hours, minutes, and seconds, along with a date window at 3 o’clock and a rotating bezel that can be used for measuring elapsed time.

How to Set Your Rolex Yacht-Master:

• First, unscrew the winding crown until it is completely free from the threads that secure it to the case.
• To set the date display on your watch, pull the winding crown out to the first position and rotate it to advance the value displayed by the date window.
• To set the time, pull the winding crown out to the second position; the seconds hand will come to a complete stop.
• Rotate the crown in either direction until the correct time is displayed by the hands. If the date display advances past the desired value while doing this, repeat the previous two steps to correct the date.
• Once the time and date have been set, push in the winding crown and screw it back down to the case.

* The winding crown on your Rolex Yacht-Master must be fully screwed down to ensure that it stays protected against moisture and dirt.

How to Use Your Rolex Yacht-Master's Bezel

• To use your Yacht-Master's bezel to measure elapsed time, simply turn it until the inverted triangle is aligned with the current position of the minute hand.
• You can then read the amount of time that has passed by referencing the minute hand's position against the 60-minute scale on your watch's bezel.

Equal parts functional and luxurious, the Yacht-Master perfectly represents Rolex's identity as both the producer of high-performing sports watches and the single most famous luxury manufacturer in the entire world.

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Easy Guide: How to Adjust a Rolex Watch Band at Home

Adjusting a Rolex watch band at home is a simple process that can be done with the right tools and careful attention to detail. With the right techniques, you can easily customize the fit of your Rolex watch band to suit your wrist perfectly.

Key Takeaways:

• Adjusting a Rolex watch band at home requires the right tools, such as a bracelet position adjuster, bracelet removing tool, and a watch crown winder tool.
• Special attention is needed when adjusting pins on an Oysterquartz watch.
• The Horofix bracelet tool and a toothpick can be used for adjusting the clasp position on regular Rolex watches.
• The Glidelock clasp and Easylink feature are options for adjusting the bracelet size without removing links.
• If removing links is necessary, a screwdriver or a professional watchmaker can safely add or remove links.
• Make adjustments from the 6 o'clock side to keep the clasp hinge centered on the wrist.
• Adjusting a Rolex watch band at home requires careful attention to detail for a perfect fit.

Tools for Adjusting a Rolex Watch Band

To adjust a Rolex watch band , it is recommended to have tools such as a bracelet position adjuster, bracelet removing tool, and a watch crown winder tool. These tools are essential for ensuring a smooth and precise adjustment process.

One user on the Rolex Forums suggested using a bracelet position adjuster, which allows for precise positioning of the bracelet on the wrist. This tool ensures that the watch sits comfortably and securely, enhancing the overall wearing experience.

Additionally, a bracelet removing tool is necessary for adjusting the size of the Rolex watch band. This tool allows for the removal or addition of links, ensuring a perfect fit. It is important to use this tool carefully to avoid any damage to the bracelet or watch.

Lastly, a watch crown winder tool is essential for adjusting the position of the watch crown. This tool allows for easy and precise winding, ensuring accurate timekeeping.

As mentioned by another user on the forum, it is important to note that adjusting pins on an Oysterquartz watch is not a simple task and requires special attention. Therefore, it is advisable to seek professional assistance for this particular task.

Overall, having the right tools is crucial for adjusting a Rolex watch band at home. With tools like the bracelet position adjuster, bracelet removing tool, and watch crown winder tool, you can ensure a perfect fit and optimal comfort on your wrist.

Techniques for Adjusting a Rolex Watch Band

There are several techniques that can be used to adjust a Rolex watch band , making it easier to achieve the perfect fit. One popular tool among Rolex enthusiasts is the Horofix bracelet tool, which allows for precise adjustments to the clasp position. Simply insert the tool into the designated holes on the clasp and gently push or pull to move it to the desired position. This tool is particularly useful for fine-tuning the fit of the bracelet and ensuring optimal comfort on the wrist.

For those who don't have a Horofix bracelet tool on hand, a simple toothpick can also be used as an alternative. Insert the toothpick into the holes on the clasp and apply gentle pressure to adjust its position. While this method may require a bit more patience and finesse, it can still yield satisfactory results.

It's important to note that certain Rolex models, such as the Oysterquartz, require special attention when it comes to adjusting the pins on the bracelet. This task is not as straightforward and may be best left to a professional watchmaker to ensure proper handling and prevent any damage to the watch.

For Rolex watches equipped with the Glidelock clasp or Easylink feature, adjusting the bracelet size becomes even more convenient. These innovative mechanisms allow for easy resizing without the need to remove or add links. Simply slide the Glidelock clasp or use the Easylink extension to achieve the desired fit. These features provide flexibility and convenience for wearers who anticipate changes in wrist size throughout the day.

When making adjustments to a Rolex watch band, it is advised to start from the 6 o'clock side. This ensures that the clasp hinge stays centered on the wrist, providing a balanced and comfortable fit. Additionally, it's crucial to approach the process with careful attention to detail. Take your time and make small adjustments incrementally, testing the fit after each modification. This will help avoid any unintended changes and allow for a precise and customized fit.

Remember, adjusting a Rolex watch band at home is a straightforward process, but it requires the right tools and a meticulous approach. Whether using a Horofix bracelet tool or a toothpick, take the time to adjust the clasp position or explore the convenience of the Glidelock clasp and Easylink feature. If needed, seek the assistance of a professional watchmaker for more complex adjustments. With the right techniques and attention to detail, you can achieve the perfect fit and enjoy your Rolex timepiece with utmost comfort.

Tips for Adjusting a Rolex Watch Band

When adjusting a Rolex watch band, it is important to make adjustments from the 6 o'clock side to ensure that the clasp hinge stays centered on the wrist. This ensures maximum comfort and a secure fit. In addition to this crucial tip, here are a few more pointers to make the adjustment process smooth and successful:

• Use the right tools: Investing in the appropriate tools for adjusting a Rolex watch band can make the task easier and more precise. A bracelet position adjuster, bracelet removing tool, and a watch crown winder tool are often recommended for efficient adjustment.
• Take caution with Oysterquartz watches: Adjusting the pins on an Oysterquartz watch is not a simple task and requires special attention. It is advisable to seek assistance from a professional watchmaker to ensure the integrity of the watch.
• Explore alternative adjustment options: Rolex offers innovative features like the Glidelock clasp and Easylink feature. These allow for micro-adjustments to the bracelet without the need to remove any links. Take advantage of these options if they are available on your Rolex watch.
• Seek professional assistance, if needed: If you are unsure about making adjustments yourself or if the watch band requires significant changes, it is always wise to consult a professional watchmaker. They have the expertise and experience to handle the delicate task of adjusting a Rolex watch band.

By following these tips, you can confidently adjust your Rolex watch band at home. Remember to work from the 6 o'clock side, use the right tools, and seek professional help when necessary. With these considerations in mind, you can enjoy a perfectly fitted Rolex watch that enhances both style and comfort.

Adjusting a Rolex watch band at home can be a simple and rewarding process with the right tools and careful attention to detail. By following proper techniques and utilizing the recommended tools, you can easily make adjustments to your Rolex watch band to achieve the perfect fit.

One user on the Rolex Forums suggested obtaining tools such as a bracelet position adjuster, bracelet removing tool, and a watch crown winder tool for the adjustment process. These tools are specifically designed to ensure precise and safe adjustments for your Rolex watch band.

It's important to note that adjusting pins on an Oysterquartz watch requires special attention and may not be as straightforward. However, for regular Rolex watches, tools like the Horofix bracelet tool and a toothpick can be used to adjust the clasp position with ease.

In addition, Rolex offers innovative features such as the Glidelock clasp and Easylink feature, which allow for quick and easy adjustments to the bracelet size without the need to remove links. If removing links is necessary, using a screwdriver or seeking assistance from a professional watchmaker ensures a safe and precise adjustment process.

Remember, when making adjustments, it's recommended to start from the 6 o'clock side to ensure that the clasp hinge stays centered on your wrist for optimal comfort and aesthetics. By paying careful attention to detail, you can achieve a perfectly adjusted Rolex watch band that enhances both the look and feel of your timepiece.

How can I adjust a Rolex watch band at home?

Adjusting a Rolex watch band at home requires the right tools and careful attention to detail. You can use tools such as a bracelet position adjuster, bracelet removing tool, and a watch crown winder tool. It is recommended to make adjustments from the 6 o'clock side to ensure the clasp hinge stays centered on the wrist. If removing links is necessary, a screwdriver or a professional watchmaker can be used to safely remove or add links to the Rolex bracelet.

Are there any special tools required for adjusting a Rolex watch band?

While regular Rolex watches can be adjusted using tools like the Horofix bracelet tool and a toothpick for adjusting the clasp position, adjusting pins on an Oysterquartz watch requires special attention. It is best to seek professional assistance for adjusting pins on an Oysterquartz watch.

Can I adjust the size of the Rolex bracelet without removing links?

Yes, Rolex offers the Glidelock clasp and Easylink feature on some of their watches, which allow for adjusting the bracelet size without removing links. These features provide flexibility and convenience in achieving the desired fit.

What should I do if I am unsure about adjusting my Rolex watch band at home?

If you are unsure about adjusting your Rolex watch band, it is always recommended to seek the assistance of a professional watchmaker. They have the expertise and tools necessary to make the adjustments accurately and safely.

Source Links

• https://millenarywatches.com/how-to-adjust-your-rolex-bracelet-a-step-by-step-guide/
• https://www.cjcharles.com/blogs/cj-charles-jewelers/how-to-change-or-adjust-a-rolex-watch-band
• https://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=753765

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Rolex introduced a small number of Cosmograph Yachtmasters in 1965. However, the Yacht-Master as we know it (Ref. 16628) was introduced in 1992. Since then, there have been a number of references (16623, 16622, 126622). Based on the Rolex Submariner, the Yacht-Master shares a lot of similarities with the world’s most popular dive watch. However, the Yacht-Master is a dressier option with more elegant finishing. It sacrifices some of the Submariner’s dive-focused spec for slimmer dimensions. 

Installing your new Everest Band can be done easily at home using our toolkits and by following the instructions on our Installation Page .  Professional installation is recommended as Everest is not responsible for injury or damage to one’s self or watch.

The tang buckle style strap is a full strap that includes 9 sizing holes, sturdy strap keepers, and a high quality 316L stainless steel buckle closure. These straps often come in standard and short sizes and universally fit most wrists.

A deployant style strap is a strap that integrates into your existing watch deployant clasp. Deployant straps do not come with buckle, but rather are intended to be used with your existing watch deployant clasp. For deployant straps, sizing is specific to your wrist and watch size. Please see the Deployant Sizing Guide to make sure you are choosing the correct size.

Sizing your Everest Deployant Strap is easy! The sizing correlates to the number of links on both sides of your existing watch bracelet. Please watch this short video: Deployant Sizing Guide , which shows you exactly how to find the right size for your deployant strap.

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He thought he'd sold his Rolex for $15K. Sleight of hand left him with coupons instead

Buyer swapped out money inside envelope with flyer clippings.

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Laurent Mattel recalls his legs turning to jelly when he peered inside an envelope meant to be holding $15,000 and saw a bundle of flyer clippings instead.

Hours earlier, he had sold his Rolex Datejust 41 to a man at his home in Blainville, Que., a suburb north of Montreal. 

The man known as Marius, at least according to the Facebook profile which would be deactivated shortly after the transaction, had responded to Mattel's ad for the luxury watch on Facebook Marketplace. 

"He told me he wanted to buy my watch to treat his wife. I didn't suspect a thing," Mattel said in an interview with Radio-Canada's La Facture  about his experience back in November. 

Once in the kitchen, Mattel recalls Marius placing a black pouch on the counter and pulling out a silver envelope with a rubber band around it. He remembers Marius removing the rubber band and handing him the envelope. 

"He lets me take out the money and he takes back the envelope. I count out $15,000 in $100 bills. I even make little bundles of $1,000 on the counter," Mattel said.

"Then [Marius] picks up the money and puts it back in the envelope. He puts the rubber band back around the envelope and hands it to me."

With a $100 bill still visible through the clear window of the envelope, Mattel says he handed the man his Rolex and, after exchanging a few pleasantries, Marius left. 

A little while later, Mattel decided to open the envelope again. This time, he realized, it'd been stuffed with a bunch of coupons. 

"I came undone. I really felt the heat, thinking to myself, 'I've been had,'" he said. 

Mattel had just become the latest victim of a criminal magician or magicians who allegedly committed other similar thefts in the greater Montreal area, Radio-Canada's investigation has found. 

The Blainville police, with whom Mattel filed a complaint, would not comment on the case.

So how did the thief manage to leave with Mattel's watch and the $15,000? Montreal magician John Vincelli showed CBC News how combining distraction with sleight of hand "is really simple to do."

Vincelli puts his bag on the table, pulls an envelope from it and slides a rubber band off the envelope before handing it over. The seller counts the money in the envelope.

When the seller is satisfied, Vincelli offers to put the rubber band back on the envelope. He takes the envelope from the seller, and then pretends to search for the rubber band. He lifts up his bag, and moves his cell phone — movements that distract.

During that distraction, Vincelli slyly slides the envelope with cash into his bag and slides out an envelope containing playing cards. He puts a rubber band on the decoy, and then adds another element of distraction.

"I will ask you, 'how come you don't want the watch any more?' as I hand you the envelope. Questions that will make you think of the question and forget what just happened," he said.

After handing the envelope over, Vincelli pretends to make a hasty exit so the buyer is left with nothing but an envelope, a rubber band and a few playing cards.

Quebec man selling Rolex watch cheated out $15,000 with sleight-of-hand trick

Theft or fraud insurer says it matters.

After contacting the police, Mattel turned to his insurer, Promutuel, to file a claim for $10,000 — the amount covered by his insurance policy in the event of theft of luxury items.

He said 10 days later, a claims adjuster called to say it had been accepted.

But a few days later, Promutuel backtracked on its decision. 

"I was told that, in the end, the legal department was refusing to pay because I voluntarily handed over my watch," Mattel said, adding he felt crushed by the change of heart. 

"I felt like I'd been robbed a second time by my own insurer. If I'd known there were papers in the envelope, would I have handed over my watch? No," he said. 

I felt like I'd been robbed a second time by my own insurer. - Laurent Mattel

In an email to Radio-Canada's La Facture , Promutuel said it relies on "insurance case law," which generally states that when an individual hands over property in exchange for a payment that turns out to be false, that person has been the victim of fraud, not theft.

"Generally speaking, home insurance policies will cover theft in the traditional sense. That is, someone breaks into your home and takes your belongings. Fraud is not generally covered," said insurance lawyer Jacqueline Bissonnette.

"But in this case, there was no real payment. We're not talking about a forged check or a bank draft that turned out to be fake. That's why I think this case is different. The person has clearly been robbed." 

Incidentally, no claims for theft by sleight of hand seem to appear in the case law.

"It's quite unusual, a magic trick like this. I've never seen that in my practice," Bissonnette said. 

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Outraged by Promutuel's decision, Mattel opened a small claims file, in addition to filing a complaint with Quebec's securities regulator, the Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF), against the insurer.

Finally, Promutuel agreed to pay Mattel $10,000 plus damages in an out-of-court settlement. 

The insurer maintains Mattel was the victim of fraud and that the loss of his watch is inadmissible, but said it would pay him this amount because its claims adjuster initially accepted his claim when they should not have done so.

Reached by Radio-Canada, Promutuel replied by e-mail that the handling of each claim is done promptly for each of its insured members and is in line with good practice.

A growing phenomenon

Mattel's experience is not an isolated case.

Since the pandemic, Rolex thefts have exploded due to their scarcity on the market. In Europe and the United States, robberies have gotten more violent . 

"Online, there are plenty of videos of people being attacked … stores are getting smashed up," said Cristian Fatu, owner of Time Merchants, a luxury watch boutique in Montreal.

Fatu says in Montreal, most thefts are non-violent, "but that doesn't change the fact that you're going to be deprived of your property." 

He says the Montreal community of luxury watch enthusiasts is well aware that a criminal magician or magicians seem to be operating in the area to rob people of their watches. 

La Facture  has spoken to other people who say they have been victims of the same scheme as recently as last week.

Victims say they have filed complaints with Montreal police. 

Fatu advises people wishing to sell luxury items on Marketplace to carry out transactions at a police station or with the help of an intermediary, such as a jeweller.

"If there is a theft, you should register it directly with Rolex and the local police. If you have a serial number and the watch is found, you may recover it, but the chances are slim," he said. 

For his part, Mattel is still hoping to get his Rolex back.

"I tell myself that the universe takes care of everything," he said. "I hope that my little belief in the universe will reward me one day."

Translated by CBC's Sabrina Jonas

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