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DSJ · 9 September 2008, 05:57 AM

One of the things that came to mind when admiring my brother's 14060M and reacquainting myself with my Expy2 upon my return home is my current preference for SS Rolex sport watches to have brushed center links on the bracelets. As we know with the new generation of Sport Rolex watches, the center links are polished. Do you think these watches (Daytona, GMT2C, etc.) should still be offered with the option of an all-brushed bracelet? I'm starting to think that if I ever get a 116710, I'd brush out the center links.

toph · 9 September 2008, 05:58 AM

i think i am one of the few that prefers the polished centre links. Obviously a sub must have brushed links but the new milgauss and GMT IIC are much better off for having the polished links

i voted for yes they should both be offered.

Rolexitis · 9 September 2008, 06:02 AM

I agree with Toph here. Each one has it's own best interest or look.

Tools · 9 September 2008, 06:07 AM

I don't like the polished linksas much, it's a bit too much in-your-face for me. I like a bit more stealth on my wrist.

If they offered the option, I would choose brushed..

Quicksilver · 9 September 2008, 06:11 AM

I don't like the polished centre links. I prefer a more understated look and I find them a little to brash for my taste. I would prefer them to be available as an option for those that want them.

ashu2289 · 9 September 2008, 06:14 AM

I love the brushed satin finish, however, it is possible that on some models polished links may look better, so I voted for both

karmatp · 9 September 2008, 06:21 AM

I absolutely hate polished center links and I can't bring myself to purchase any watch that comes with them. I was really thinking about a new GMT IIC but I cant pull the trigger because of the bracelet. The term sport watch and polished links have no business being together, a true sport watch or tool watch can not have polished bracelets, it completely takes away from the whole concept. The reason I love Rolex is because of the sport or tool watch line, I don't want bling and I don't want to have a complete scratch magnet wrapped around my wrist. IMHO, if the new sub has polished center links, Rolex is completely lost.

GBJIV · 9 September 2008, 06:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tools

I don't like the polished linksas much, it's a bit too much in-your-face for me. I like a bit more stealth on my wrist.

If they offered the option, I would choose brushed..

I am with Tools on this one.

Hamilton Carvalho · 9 September 2008, 11:30 AM

X2

Quote:

Originally Posted by toph

i think i am one of the few that prefers the polished centre links. Obviously a sub must have brushed links but the new milgauss and GMT IIC are much better off for having the polished links

i voted for yes they should both be offered.

marshallr47 · 9 September 2008, 11:57 AM

IMO, the polished center links looks great on my Daytona. But other SS sports watches look better with the brushed center links. I guess for TT versions, the norm is brushed and polished.

hsung · 9 September 2008, 09:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by marshallr47

IMO, the polished center links looks great on my Daytona. But other SS sports watches look better with the brushed center links. I guess for TT versions, the norm is brushed and polished.

I agree TT sports watches look elegant with polished centre links. The scratches are only noticable at very close range, and almost invisible for someone like me who's eyes are not as good anymore

Bisquitlips · 5 October 2008, 10:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by toph

i think i am one of the few that prefers the polished centre links. Obviously a sub must have brushed links but the new milgauss and GMT IIC are much better off for having the polished links

i voted for yes they should both be offered.

I suppose that I am one of the few that really like the polished center links. The contrast offered is excellent.

mfer · 9 September 2008, 06:54 AM

Well, I was a fan of the satin, but once I saw the IIc, I was convinced that on some watches (IIc included) polished is better.

On a sub, no way!!!!

astcell · 9 September 2008, 06:56 AM

Will it fade eventually?

Brushpup · 9 September 2008, 11:24 AM

Abolish polish on steel tool and sport models immediately!

My .02, but I know they won't...

allill · 9 September 2008, 12:02 PM

Choices are good.

Jimbits76 · 9 September 2008, 10:08 PM

Offer both!!!!!!!!!!

J

JJ Irani · 10 September 2008, 04:06 AM

Offer both, naturally!!

The all brushed look for watches like the Sub and SD....as well as the centre polished links for the SS/Pt. YM and other sports-cum-dressy looking models.

JJ

Z-Sub · 10 September 2008, 04:44 AM

It's good to have both options and sometimes when you see the choices in person, it may surprise you.

petespendthrift · 4 October 2008, 10:40 PM

We all have different tastes although the majority seem to favour brushed for steel sports models.

I don't think it really has much to do with whether the watch is a "tool" or not (which I happen to think is a stupid expression as Rolex are very expensive and should be able to combine practicality with elegance without being categorised like a Suunto or Casio G-Shock).

What's more relevant for looks is that the polished centre links are more for people who want a bit of flashy, showy, bling - "look at my expensive watch!". More traditional and conservative Rolex owners value the brushed look for its classy, understated high quality image.

Either way Rolex risk loosing customers by not providing what people want. They should provide the choice and if they won't offer both then the easiest way to solve this is how they did it before. Gold/Platinum and TT are dressy so polished and Steel is for every day use so brushed - simple. It should apply for all models not just the sport ones.

Some might say get a Sub instead of a GMT if you want brushed but what if you want and use the 24 hour hand and don't dive?

My personal tastes are that I always loved the simple unfussy look of the brushed steel Rolexs (in particular the oyster bracelet) and always wanted one. Although I currently own a GMT-C, I would not even consider any of the polished ones again because of the bling look. I think from steel Datejusts through to the steel sport line, polishing has ruined them for me.

My GMT-C has fortunately been a scratch magnet, so no longer looks so shiny - just a mess of scratches now (something my SD never suffered from) and I fully intend to ask Rolex to brush it. If they refuse then hopefully Omega will bring out a Planet Ocean GMT model and I will get rid of the Rolex and not look back.

JohnKC · 5 October 2008, 05:11 AM

I agree with Toph on this one. I think for some models, such as the SS Sub and the Exp II, the brushed option makes the most sense in fitting with the image of a "true" tool watch. However, IMO the GMT IIc looks better with the polished center links and I am not one that is interested in others noticing my watch. Because of this fear, I almost did not buy Rolex and considered other brands. In contrast to some thinking that the GMTIIc is too much "bling", I think that this watch is very versatile and can be worn casually or worn dressed up in a business or formal environment. In addition, the "tool" function of the GMT is to track multiple time zones, and these days, that is primarily of use to business people/travelers who tend to be "dressed up" for work. While I am not in business, I do wear a tie to work every day, and I think the GMTIIc dresses up nicely without being a true dress watch. Again, I think this watch is very versatile and a big part of this is due to the polished center links. To each his own, but I appreciate that Rolex offers a range of options to please us all.

hsung · 5 October 2008, 10:32 AM

I reckon buyers choose between brushed or polished depending on how much they can tolerate scratches ...

It's like choosing between brushed or polished wheels for your car. Many car enthusiast wash their cars every week to check for scrathes or dents as they cannot tolerate them. On the other hand, I have a friend who has never washed his car except when it goes in for a service or let nature do the job for him

f16570 · 10 September 2008, 04:23 AM

They all have their place in the line up.

Frank 21 · 10 September 2008, 04:52 AM

I'm with Trevor on this one all the way..

mickeydainish · 4 October 2008, 10:49 PM

both for me..... I like the choice!!! :-)

I was a die hard brushed man..... untill I fell for the charms of that darn GMTIIc....... All good, Mate... :-)

f16570 · 4 October 2008, 10:57 PM

Love the brushed centre links

Dylan Wade · 4 October 2008, 11:03 PM

I went with offering both too, Rolex knew what they were doing when creating what we see today IMO.

TempoKing · 4 October 2008, 11:09 PM

I know the guy who polishes all the Rolex watches that go for service at the service center, he does nothing else but polish...all day long...he loves it.
Anyway, when a friend ever wants (other than normal polish) the mirror finish at the center of the bracelet I would give it to my guy and 30dollars later ...presto...a great shine right down the middle.

Dr S · 5 October 2008, 12:31 AM

I like both!

most are not tol watches these days - so it gives an oppourtunity to have the polished links :) But I'm sure when we see the NEw Sub we will knwo what direction it will be - I beleive brushed for this model would be appropriate - but GMT's etc - nice new poliched links are great :)

Gasoil4ever · 5 October 2008, 12:39 AM

I went with both. After all choice is a winner.

But i really like the brushed links better. Some people around me owning SS Daytonas or GMT IIc manage to keep them almost scratch free... i wouldn't for sure. And that would really make me nervous.

I hope the Future Sub will be large case + ceramic bezel + brushed center links... let's see what happens...

View Poll Results: Still offer a brushed option?
No, polished center links are better	22	15.17%
Yes, polished and brushed should be both offered	93	64.14%
Yes, but I think they should abolish polished	26	17.93%
I wish I could get an all polished like Breitling	4	2.76%
Voters: 145. You may not vote on this poll

9 September 2008, 05:57 AM	#1
DSJ "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: David Location: USA Watch: your step! Posts: 7,882	Polished vs. brushed center links on SS Rolex Sport models? One of the things that came to mind when admiring my brother's 14060M and reacquainting myself with my Expy2 upon my return home is my current preference for SS Rolex sport watches to have brushed center links on the bracelets. As we know with the new generation of Sport Rolex watches, the center links are polished. Do you think these watches (Daytona, GMT2C, etc.) should still be offered with the option of an all-brushed bracelet? I'm starting to think that if I ever get a 116710, I'd brush out the center links. __________________ Rolex. The Rolex of watches. 16570 Expy2 Noir, 116710 GMT Master II, 2552.80 SMP

9 September 2008, 05:58 AM	#2
toph "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Real Name: ChrisTOPHer Location: Sydney Watch: Rolex, Brellum, Posts: 12,601	i think i am one of the few that prefers the polished centre links. Obviously a sub must have brushed links but the new milgauss and GMT IIC are much better off for having the polished links i voted for yes they should both be offered. __________________ "Where no counsel is the people fall, but in the multitude of counselors there is safety." Member No.# 11795

9 September 2008, 06:02 AM	#3
Rolexitis "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2008 Real Name: Matt Location: Earth Watch: 114060 Posts: 3,203	I agree with Toph here. Each one has it's own best interest or look. __________________ Card Carrying Member of the Global Association of Retro-Grouch-Curmudgeons

9 September 2008, 06:07 AM	#4
Tools TRF Moderator & 2025 Titanium Yacht-Master Patron Join Date: May 2007 Real Name: Larry Location: Mojave Desert Watch: GMT's Posts: 43,681	I don't like the polished linksas much, it's a bit too much in-your-face for me. I like a bit more stealth on my wrist. If they offered the option, I would choose brushed.. __________________ (Chill ... It's just a watch Forum.....) NAWCC Member

9 September 2008, 06:11 AM	#5
Quicksilver "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Real Name: David Location: London+Guangzhou Watch: ing watches Posts: 2,603	I don't like the polished centre links. I prefer a more understated look and I find them a little to brash for my taste. I would prefer them to be available as an option for those that want them.

9 September 2008, 06:14 AM	#6
ashu2289 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2007 Real Name: Ashutosh Location: Rochester NY Watch: Daytonas,SD Posts: 2,342	I love the brushed satin finish, however, it is possible that on some models polished links may look better, so I voted for both __________________ Everything becomes nothing after ROLEX 116520 SS Daytona White Dial 116520 SS Daytona Black Dial 116523 18K&SS Daytona Slate Dial 16600 Sea-Dweller 16710 GMT Master II Pepsi Bezel 16613 18K&SS Submariner Blue Dial 116660 Deepsea Sea-Dweller

9 September 2008, 06:21 AM	#7
karmatp "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Real Name: Trevor Location: Arizona Posts: 5,740	I absolutely hate polished center links and I can't bring myself to purchase any watch that comes with them. I was really thinking about a new GMT IIC but I cant pull the trigger because of the bracelet. The term sport watch and polished links have no business being together, a true sport watch or tool watch can not have polished bracelets, it completely takes away from the whole concept. The reason I love Rolex is because of the sport or tool watch line, I don't want bling and I don't want to have a complete scratch magnet wrapped around my wrist. IMHO, if the new sub has polished center links, Rolex is completely lost. __________________ My grails:

9 September 2008, 11:57 AM	#10
marshallr47 "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Real Name: Ron Location: Alabama Watch: Daytona,TT Sub,GMT Posts: 4,673	IMO, the polished center links looks great on my Daytona. But other SS sports watches look better with the brushed center links. I guess for TT versions, the norm is brushed and polished. __________________ Ron

9 September 2008, 06:54 AM	#13
mfer "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Real Name: Mik Location: USA Posts: 13,724	Well, I was a fan of the satin, but once I saw the IIc, I was convinced that on some watches (IIc included) polished is better. On a sub, no way!!!! __________________ member#3242

9 September 2008, 06:56 AM	#14
astcell "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Real Name: Robert Location: Angelus Oaks, CA Watch: 116713 Posts: 6,828	Will it fade eventually? __________________ SS GMTII "D", TT GMTIIc "Z"

9 September 2008, 11:24 AM	#15
Brushpup "TRF" Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Real Name: Patrick Location: Texas Watch: what I'm wearing Posts: 5,943	Abolish polish on steel tool and sport models immediately! My .02, but I know they won't... __________________ *TRFs "AFTER DARK" Bar & NightClub Patron-Founding Member* PClub # 10 74,592 The safest place for your watch is on your wrist.

9 September 2008, 12:02 PM	#16
allill "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Real Name: jeff Location: California Watch: 116520 Posts: 83	Choices are good. __________________ Tudor: 79090 black \| Tudor 79090 black \| 79280 white/black subs \| 79280 silver/white subs \| Omega SMP \| Seiko SKX011J \| SKX173 \| 6309-7049 \| \| SKX779 \| SNA225 \| Ex-watches: 116520 black \| 16570 Black \| 79280 black/silver subs \| Omega SMP \| Breitling b13050.1 \| Pam 98 \| Seiko SNM037 \|\|

9 September 2008, 10:08 PM	#17
Jimbits76 "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: UK Posts: 9,407	Offer both!!!!!!!!!! J

10 September 2008, 04:06 AM	#18
JJ Irani Fondly Remembered Join Date: May 2005 Real Name: JJ Location: Auckland, NZ Watch: ALL SOLD!! Posts: 74,317	Offer both, naturally!! The all brushed look for watches like the Sub and SD....as well as the centre polished links for the SS/Pt. YM and other sports-cum-dressy looking models. JJ __________________ Words fail me in expressing my utmost thanks to ALL of you for this wonderful support during my hour of need!! I firmly believe that my time on planet earth is NOT yet up!! I shall fight this to the very end.......and WIN!!

10 September 2008, 04:44 AM	#19
Z-Sub 2025 Pledge Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: So Cal, USA Watch: Not a ONEWatch Man Posts: 7,383	It's good to have both options and sometimes when you see the choices in person, it may surprise you. __________________ SS Submariner Date "Z" SS SeaDweller "D" SS Submariner "Random" TT Blue Submariner "P" SS GMT-Master ll "M", Pepsi Pam 311, 524, 297

4 October 2008, 10:40 PM	#20
petespendthrift Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: N/A Posts: 185	We all have different tastes although the majority seem to favour brushed for steel sports models. I don't think it really has much to do with whether the watch is a "tool" or not (which I happen to think is a stupid expression as Rolex are very expensive and should be able to combine practicality with elegance without being categorised like a Suunto or Casio G-Shock). What's more relevant for looks is that the polished centre links are more for people who want a bit of flashy, showy, bling - "look at my expensive watch!". More traditional and conservative Rolex owners value the brushed look for its classy, understated high quality image. Either way Rolex risk loosing customers by not providing what people want. They should provide the choice and if they won't offer both then the easiest way to solve this is how they did it before. Gold/Platinum and TT are dressy so polished and Steel is for every day use so brushed - simple. It should apply for all models not just the sport ones. Some might say get a Sub instead of a GMT if you want brushed but what if you want and use the 24 hour hand and don't dive? My personal tastes are that I always loved the simple unfussy look of the brushed steel Rolexs (in particular the oyster bracelet) and always wanted one. Although I currently own a GMT-C, I would not even consider any of the polished ones again because of the bling look. I think from steel Datejusts through to the steel sport line, polishing has ruined them for me. My GMT-C has fortunately been a scratch magnet, so no longer looks so shiny - just a mess of scratches now (something my SD never suffered from) and I fully intend to ask Rolex to brush it. If they refuse then hopefully Omega will bring out a Planet Ocean GMT model and I will get rid of the Rolex and not look back.

5 October 2008, 05:11 AM	#21
JohnKC "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Real Name: John Location: Kansas City Watch: GMT IIc Posts: 22	I agree with Toph on this one. I think for some models, such as the SS Sub and the Exp II, the brushed option makes the most sense in fitting with the image of a "true" tool watch. However, IMO the GMT IIc looks better with the polished center links and I am not one that is interested in others noticing my watch. Because of this fear, I almost did not buy Rolex and considered other brands. In contrast to some thinking that the GMTIIc is too much "bling", I think that this watch is very versatile and can be worn casually or worn dressed up in a business or formal environment. In addition, the "tool" function of the GMT is to track multiple time zones, and these days, that is primarily of use to business people/travelers who tend to be "dressed up" for work. While I am not in business, I do wear a tie to work every day, and I think the GMTIIc dresses up nicely without being a true dress watch. Again, I think this watch is very versatile and a big part of this is due to the polished center links. To each his own, but I appreciate that Rolex offers a range of options to please us all.

5 October 2008, 10:32 AM	#22
hsung Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Melbourne Watch: Daytona Posts: 288	I reckon buyers choose between brushed or polished depending on how much they can tolerate scratches ... It's like choosing between brushed or polished wheels for your car. Many car enthusiast wash their cars every week to check for scrathes or dents as they cannot tolerate them. On the other hand, I have a friend who has never washed his car except when it goes in for a service or let nature do the job for him

10 September 2008, 04:23 AM	#23
f16570 "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Real Name: F Location: Scotland Watch: Exp II White Face Posts: 4,272	They all have their place in the line up. __________________ Why have what's new when you have what's best. f

10 September 2008, 04:52 AM	#24
Frank 21 Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: chicago Posts: 136	I'm with Trevor on this one all the way..

4 October 2008, 10:49 PM	#25
mickeydainish Banned Join Date: Mar 2008 Real Name: Michael Location: LaLa Land Watch: Sub Date 16610 Posts: 1,757	both for me..... I like the choice!!! :-) I was a die hard brushed man..... untill I fell for the charms of that darn GMTIIc....... All good, Mate... :-)

4 October 2008, 10:57 PM	#26
f16570 "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Real Name: F Location: Scotland Watch: Exp II White Face Posts: 4,272	Love the brushed centre links __________________ Why have what's new when you have what's best. f

4 October 2008, 11:03 PM	#27
Dylan Wade Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: BC, Canada Watch: EXP II Posts: 545	I went with offering both too, Rolex knew what they were doing when creating what we see today IMO.

4 October 2008, 11:09 PM	#28
TempoKing Banned Join Date: Jan 2008 Real Name: Anastasios Location: Athens Greece Watch: Rolex GMT 1675 Posts: 8,496	I know the guy who polishes all the Rolex watches that go for service at the service center, he does nothing else but polish...all day long...he loves it. Anyway, when a friend ever wants (other than normal polish) the mirror finish at the center of the bracelet I would give it to my guy and 30dollars later ...presto...a great shine right down the middle.

5 October 2008, 12:31 AM	#29
Dr S Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Real Name: Scott Location: UK Watch: 1665/16610lv/16600 Posts: 101	I like both! most are not tol watches these days - so it gives an oppourtunity to have the polished links :) But I'm sure when we see the NEw Sub we will knwo what direction it will be - I beleive brushed for this model would be appropriate - but GMT's etc - nice new poliched links are great :)

5 October 2008, 12:39 AM	#30
Gasoil4ever "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Cameroun Watch: GS Snowflake Posts: 1,534	I went with both. After all choice is a winner. But i really like the brushed links better. Some people around me owning SS Daytonas or GMT IIc manage to keep them almost scratch free... i wouldn't for sure. And that would really make me nervous. I hope the Future Sub will be large case + ceramic bezel + brushed center links... let's see what happens...

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