Oyster flex sizing same on both sides?

[CookieButter]

I went gray to buy a 126655 that is a few years old, and the watch has an E sized band on both sides. All of the charts that I see when searching show different sizes for each side, so I expected an D/E or E/F combo. It seems to fit fine, but I wanted to get feedback if there is any disadvantage to having the same size — it is my first oyster flex.

Also, I assume that for durability and sanitation reasons, people sometimes swap out leather and rubber straps when buying a used watch. Do people usually swap out oyster flex straps when buying used or keep what is on it? How long do they generally last?

[Tools]

Watch fitting is not universal.

Typically, you would have a shorter half on the 6 side and a longer half on the 12 side the same as any bracelet, simply because of the way the wrist is during movement.

However, everybody likes a different feel or look so these things are very individualized. If you like the fit and feel, it is right.

[watchwatcher]

Ideally, the 12 o'clock side should be longer, but the important thing is if it fits comfortably with the clasp centered- to include the long blade- underneath. As long as it does, well, you're good.

The straps are very durable. I wouldn't swap out unless there was excessive wear.

[brandrea]

Welcome to the forum and good luck with the purchase

[Mystro]

Originally Posted by Tools

Watch fitting is not universal.

Typically, you would have a shorter half on the 6 side and a longer half on the 12 side the same as any bracelet, simply because of the way the wrist is during movement.

However, everybody like a different feel or look so these things are very individualized. If you like the fit and feel, it is right.

^^^Spot on. You want the clasp centered at the bottom but the head of the watch to tilt more toward your body when on the wrist. It’s easier to look at a glance.

[biknut]

How does it work swapping the bracelet on a grey market OF watch; can you simply take it to an AD and pay a fee?

[Tools]

Originally Posted by biknut

How does it work swapping the bracelet on a grey market OF watch; can you simply take it to an AD and pay a fee?

You don't have a Grey Market watch, you have a used watch from the secondary (used) market, they are not the same.

Take it into any Dealer and they will order whatever you want once they record the serial/model. Oysterflex straps start at around 500 for basic cow and go up from there.

[ArtNouveau]

All of my Oyster bracelets have two links taken out, one on each side. Weirdly though I got some Oysterflex halves for my 116500 and ended up with E on both sides and it feels fine.

[biknut]

Originally Posted by Tools

You don't have a Grey Market watch, you have a used watch from the secondary (used) market, they are not the same.

Take it into any Dealer and they will order whatever you want once they record the serial/model. Oysterflex straps start at around 500 for basic cow and go up from there.

Thank you, good to know.