Rolex vs Tudor Bracelet

[Fjallcapet]

Hi all,

Just trying to get some opinions - I just recently bought an Explorer 1 114270 from 2007, and the bracelet feels really flimsy compared to my Tudor BB58. I'm new to the world of Rolex and am wondering if this is normal for an older watch. I'm not too worried about legitimacy (bought from a dealer, with papers and box, etc.) but just curious. What are peoples' thoughts?

Thanks!

[douglasf13]

I have the same watch, and, having owned generations from the early 70s all the way to modern, it’s my favorite bracelet of all. Solid end links, but hollow center links to remain lightweight, and a super compact and lightweight clasp with a lock and 5 adjustment holes. Don’t mistake weight for durability.

[Chute]

I feel you, most people on here will tell you the older bracelets are just fine but every Rolex with that bracelet underwhelmed me. The BB58 is much more solid and robust. But give it time, if it’s properly sized, it should feel fine.

[goldboy]

Yes on the older rolex watches, modern rolex has the new very solid link bracelets. Huge difference.

[MDMH]

Does the modern Tudor BB “Oyster” bracelets use ceramic sleeves too?

[Number3]

Originally Posted by Martha

Yes, older Rolex watches have the new very solid link bracelets.

Huh?

[DJ2020]

Originally Posted by Martha

Yes, older Rolex watches have the new very solid link bracelets.

Huh? uh........?

[shaunylw]

Originally Posted by Martha

Yes, older Rolex watches have the new very solid link bracelets.

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[GGGMT]

Originally Posted by douglasf13

I have the same watch, and, having owned generations from the early 70s all the way to modern, it’s my favorite bracelet of all. Solid end links, but hollow center links to remain lightweight, and a super compact and lightweight clasp with a lock and 5 adjustment holes. Don’t mistake weight for durability.

I too love the 78790. Amazing bracelet. OP might have stretch.


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[GGGMT]

Originally Posted by Martha

Yes, older Rolex watches have the new very solid link bracelets.

And by solid I take it you mean hollow?


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[douglasf13]

Ultimately, the 114270 is the last Explorer in the category I’ve seen others call “neo-vintage.” Many of us prefer this era and older, but, if you want a heavier, more solid bracelet (and, IMO, less comfortable,) you need to get the 39mm Exp or the current 36mm model.

[Chewbacca]

I’m a stable rich genius but this thread is confusing.

[Lunaen]

I can vouch for the new 36mm bracelet. It’s a little different in proportion (19mm lug tapering to 14mm) but it works. Why should a 36mm time only watch have the same bracelet dimensions as a 40mm dive watch anyway?



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[douglasf13]

Originally Posted by Lunaen

...Why should a 36mm time only watch have the same bracelet dimensions as a 40mm dive watch anyway?

Because the 36mm case with 20mm bracelet is the proportion of the original Rolex DJ that goes back to the '40s. For decades, the Exp II, GMT and SubDate all kept the same dial and bracelet size as the DJ/Exp and simply added functions to taste. It was a functional, modular concept, and the somewhat oversized bracelet of the DJ/DD/Exp was uniquely Rolex.

The "bulgier" proportions of the newer models look more like the proportions of any other modern watch.