Generic VS Genuine Gasket Quality

[Tazmo]

I'm wondering if the gaskets and O-rings included with the tubes sold by Rolex are made of some superior rubber that are much more durable, or are they pretty much the same as generic ones as sold here: http://www.esslinger.com/generic-rolex-crown-gaskets/

Anyone have any insight on this?

[Andad]

I use 'O' rings in my chemical pumps for all types of chemicals including 70% sulphuric acid on our last Project.
They can be supplied in many different materials depending on the application.

To me 'rubber' is a very generic description.

PTFE, Nitrile (Buna), Neoprene, EPDM and Fluorocarbon (Viton). Kalrez ® o-rings etc. and silicone seals are also widely used for high temperature applications.

The more resistant an 'O' is to chemicals etc the more expensive they will be and the harder they will be to find in the critical size required.
The chances of an aftermarket 'O' ring being made from the same material as an Rolex 'O' ring would be small.

Just like the 'O' rings.

And NO ROLEX WARRANTY.

[Tazmo]

If I use a generic gasket is it something I should be worried about? Would it last 5 years or more? Or am I just being extremely cautious? Honestly I just need to use one gasket and instead of spending $100+ on a tube set from Rolex I can spend $2.50 on a generic one.

[chrisca70]

I have those from Esslinger in my Tudor and zero problems. As long as you change them every 3-5 years a generic should be fine in normal wearing conditions. Make sure you lubricate it with silicon grease and replace the case back gasket as well. The crystal gasket should be replaced as well for peace of mind. Most importantly get it tested for leaks by your watchmaker...

[dysondiver]

ask a professional engineer , or a diver ,,, or a diving engineer is all rubber o rings are the same.
there are books written on the subject .

[SearChart]

It's not like Rolex's rubber is superior to other rubber, it's just rubber... If the generic gaskets fit fine there should be no problem.

I would however not use generic crystal gaskets.

[dysondiver]

Originally Posted by SearChart

It's not like Rolex's rubber is superior to other rubber, it's just rubber... If the generic gaskets fit fine there should be no problem.

I would however not use generic crystal gaskets.

once you lower the spec on one seal , you destroy the integrity of the whole machine.

you wouldnt go racing in a car with three road wheels , and the fourth off a wheel barrow.

[Andad]

Originally Posted by SearChart

It's not like Rolex's rubber is superior to other rubber, it's just rubber... If the generic gaskets fit fine there should be no problem.

I would however not use generic crystal gaskets.

A plain old 'just rubber ' 'O' ring would not last a week on my chemical applications Bas.

Do some research.

[SearChart]

Originally Posted by directioneng

A plain old 'just rubber ' 'O' ring would not last a week on my chemical applications Bas.

Do some research.

I'm still sure that there is nothing wrong with a proper generic caseback gasket. Most I've come across in school were of high quality and all passed the pressure test.

I'm certain these will not fail if the watch is exposed to regular wear, swimming in the ocean/pool, etc.



But if you can, always go to an RSC or watchmaker with a parts account.

[SeaDwellerBund]

Certainly not all seals are the same or perform as well as the original rated parts. I'd go for original parts only. JMO. Not going to replace with house brand tires when the original is Pirelli.

[raulpsanch12]

Originally Posted by SearChart

It's not like Rolex's rubber is superior to other rubber, it's just rubber... If the generic gaskets fit fine there should be no problem.

I would however not use generic crystal gaskets.

I'd have to disagree with you on this one. Rubber isn't JUST rubber. There are good rubber and extremely horrible attempts of rubber out there. Research different rubber strap brands and see what other people say. This way you will have the best idea of what QAULITY rubber is.

[Lew_greene]

Originally Posted by raulpsanch12

I'd have to disagree with you on this one. Rubber isn't JUST rubber. There are good rubber and extremely horrible attempts of rubber out there. Research different rubber strap brands and see what other people say. This way you will have the best idea of what QUALITY rubber is.

Agreed. I prefer quality rubber for my watches. I think people are ignorant to the how good rubber can make a watch look and feel.

[Leeq]

Rubber is my favorite, and if you ever considered or want to consider a rubber strap I would go with Rubber B.