While Rolex boasts an extensive array of models, certain watches truly stand out – particularly those featuring the Oysterflex bracelet, a high-density elastomer that sets them apart from traditional Rolex designs.
At first glance, the Oysterflex might resemble a simple rubber strap, but it’s much more than that. This innovative material is engineered from highly resilient substances, designed to endure extreme temperatures and pressures without losing its shape or integrity over time.
What Sets the Rolex Oysterflex Bracelet Apart?
The Rolex Oysterflex bracelet is crafted from a specialized elastomer that offers superior resistance to temperature fluctuations, water exposure, and cracking – traits that distinguish it from ordinary rubber straps. Dubbed “Oysterflex” due to its pairing with the iconic Oyster case, this bracelet is a sophisticated fusion of metal and elastomer.
The bracelet’s core comprises a titanium-nickel alloy, providing structural support while maintaining flexibility both on and off the wrist. This combination delivers the durability of metal with the comfort of a rubber strap. The segmented design, with a wing-like feature beneath each segment, ensures optimal airflow between the bracelet and the wrist, even on the hottest days, maintaining the comfort that Rolex metal bracelets are known for.
The Oysterflex bracelet tapers seamlessly into an Rolex Oysterlock clasp, complete with Rolex’s extension system, allowing up to 5mm of adjustability. This ensures a perfect fit, offering extra room during warmer months for enhanced comfort.
Popular Rolex Models Featuring the Oysterflex Bracelet
If you’re in the market for a Rolex Oysterflex model, you’ll find several popular options. The Oysterflex bracelet is not only comfortable and durable but also exudes a refined style that complements Rolex’s sports watches perfectly. Currently, Rolex has released Oysterflex bracelets exclusively on models crafted from yellow gold, white gold, and Everose gold, with no confirmation yet on whether steel or platinum versions will be introduced.
1. Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Everose Gold ref. 126655
The Rolex Yacht-Master ref. 126655 made history as the first Yacht-Master model crafted in Everose gold and the inaugural Rolex to feature the Oysterflex bracelet. The watch’s luxurious Everose gold contrasts strikingly with its matte black Cerachrom bezel, which features raised 60-minute graduations. The aesthetic is completed by a matte black dial with luminous markers.
In 2021, Rolex added a diamond-encrusted variant, ref. 116655, replacing the original’s understated black-and-gold palette with a dazzling full pavé diamond dial. The combination of the matte black bezel and bracelet with the shimmering diamond dial adds a level of luxury and sophistication that many Rolex enthusiasts find irresistible.
2. Rolex Yacht-Master 37 Everose Gold
Released as a smaller alternative to the 40mm Yacht-Master, the Yacht-Master 37 in Everose gold is a beautifully proportioned watch that appeals to both men and women. With its 37mm case, it strikes a balance between the 36mm traditional size and the 40mm standard size, offering a perfect fit for those who prefer something in between. The watch’s thickness of 11.5mm enhances comfort on the wrist.
The Rolex Oysterflex bracelet not only complements the Yacht-Master 37’s water resistance up to 100 meters but also provides a snug fit, ideal for those venturing into various water sports. This model’s elegant combination of Everose gold accents and matte black features makes it a standout in the Rolex lineup.
3. Rolex Yacht-Master 42 White Gold ref. 226659
The Yacht-Master 42 in white gold is the epitome of understated luxury. With a 42mm case, it is ideal for those with larger wrists or anyone seeking a watch that makes a bold statement. This model’s monochromatic design, featuring matte black details paired with the Oysterflex bracelet, subtly conceals its luxurious nature, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a low-key yet sophisticated look.
The contrast between the black dial and the white gold accents, highlighted by the luminescent paint on the hands and markers, has made this watch a favorite since its debut in 2019.
4. Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Yellow Gold ref. 226658
The Yacht-Master 42 ref. 226658 in yellow gold combines the sporty appeal of the Oysterflex bracelet with the classic luxury of Rolex’s yellow gold. The black dial with vibrant white markers and hands ensures easy readability, while the high-contrast design between the matte black elements and the gold case draws attention to the watch’s finest features.
With its larger case size and robust features, this reference is perfect for sports enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy water sports and sailing. The Chromalight luminescence provides a soft blue glow, making it easy to read the time in low-light conditions.
5. Rolex Daytona Yellow Gold ref. 116518LN
Since its launch in 2017, the yellow gold Daytona ref. 116518LN has become one of the most sought-after models featuring the Oysterflex bracelet. Its distinctive black bezel with a tachymeter scale gives it an unmistakable Daytona identity. The matte black Oysterflex bracelet, replacing the iconic leather strap, adds a rugged edge to this sporty watch.
The striking contrast between the black bracelet and bezel and the warm yellow gold case and dial creates an irresistible combination. This was the first Daytona to be paired with the Oysterflex bracelet, offering a new level of comfort and wearability.
6. Rolex Daytona White Gold ref. 116519LN
The Daytona ref. 116519LN, with its steel case and black dial, pays homage to the sport of motor racing that inspired its creation. The watch’s combination of robust Oystersteel and scratch-resistant Cerachrom bezel has made it one of the most sought-after Daytona variations. The monochromatic theme, with silver and black accents and an 18k white gold case, ensures that this watch makes a bold statement on the wrist.
The 40mm case, paired with the Oysterflex bracelet, provides a comfortable fit that many find superior to metal bracelets.
7. Rolex Daytona Everose Gold ref. 116515LN
The Everose gold Daytona ref. 116515LN is a showstopper with its warm rose tones against the matte black Oysterflex bracelet. Dial options in chocolate, sundust, and black only enhance the watch’s luxurious appeal. The Chromalight paint on the hands and markers glows blue, ensuring easy readability even in the dark.
This Daytona reference combines superior materials with a chronograph that tracks hours, minutes, and seconds, embodying the essence of luxury racing watches.
8. Rolex Sky-Dweller Yellow Gold ref. 326238
Launched in 2020, the yellow gold Sky-Dweller ref. 326238 blends sporty elegance with a distinctive design, highlighted by its gold fluted bezel. The fluting catches the light, adding a touch of flash that suits both formal and casual settings. The matte black Oysterflex bracelet provides a comfortable fit, even on smaller wrists, despite the watch’s 42mm case size.
This model offers three dial options – white, champagne, or black – along with a Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock for easy date reading. The unique feature of the replica Rolex Sky-Dweller is its inner dial, which allows tracking a second time zone, making it an ideal watch for frequent travelers.
9. Rolex Sky-Dweller Everose Gold ref. 326235
The Everose gold Sky-Dweller ref. 326235, introduced alongside the yellow gold version in 2020, offers similar features with a choice of white, chocolate, or dark rhodium dials. Like its yellow gold counterpart, the Everose version is equipped with a gold Oysterlock clasp featuring the Rolex Glidelock extension system, allowing for a 5mm adjustment to ensure maximum comfort.