Why are non SEL bracelets........

[Dan2010]

considered "inferior" by so many? Is it only because it "feels" tinny and cheap even though reality has proven otherwise? I have had most of the sport watches with both SEL and non SELs and I have my opinions but I am just curious of what others think.

[Speed]

I have heard folks complain of a "rattle" as well. I also notice that the hollow end links get bent and scratch the watch case as well where the "flaps" make contact.

[xjeeunitx]

It feels cheap. It definitely does for an luxury watch.

The stretch looks nasty over a period of time. Just my 2 cents.

[Eric88]

I actually find them comfy and the quaint rattle is nice. Though I do think the SEL simply looks more pleasing and complete.

[gwalker]

All you have to do is try the non sel and sel on. That's all you need to do to figure out why many call it cheap feeling. After owning 2 watches with the new bracelet I don't think I coul own a non sel bracelet now unless it was a very nice vintage piece but that's not really my style. I like new and I think it's a huge improvement.

[Dan2010]

Originally Posted by gwalker

All you have to do is try the non sel and sel on. That's all you need to do to figure out why many call it cheap feeling. After owning 2 watches with the new bracelet I don't think I coul own a non sel bracelet now unless it was a very nice vintage piece but that's not really my style. I like new and I think it's a huge improvement.

I have owned multiples of each sport watch including TWO Sub Cs and THREE 14060Ms as well as a 36MM Explorer I and the new 39MM Explorer I. I still don't find the non SELs "inferior". In fact, I find that history shows they are very strong and they are light which makes the watch very comfortable. Of course, I do like the SELs on the new watches but they are heavier, which to me, doesn't make the better. Just different.

In my mind, it would seem that it is all a matter of perception and preference rather than one actually being better than the other. I do get it that people want something the FEELS substantial when paying so much money for a watch. It's a moot point for most anyways as all the watches either have been updated with the SELs or will most likely be updated with them in the future.

[Dan Pierce]

We are discussing two different issues here. SEL's [solid end links] vs an entire bracelet w/ solid link construction. SEL's can be found on both classic style [such as SEL's and lug hole thread] and newer style bracelets.

One reason I bought my Tudor Heritage chrono was for the modern solid construction. Nothing wrong with a quality substantial feel when spending multiple thousands. But I also enjoy the vintage vibe exuded from stamped clasps, end links, and hollow links.

The best of both worlds, for some, are the somewhat limited number of years featuring both SEL's and classic bracelet.
dP

[paddy_crow]

The non-SEL tend to loosen up and you get gaps and misalignment between them and the lugs. The SEL stay put.

[bayerische]

Originally Posted by eric88

i actually find them comfy and the quaint rattle is nice. Though i do think the sel simply looks more pleasing and complete.

x2!

[subtona]

Originally Posted by paddy_crow

The non-SEL tend to loosen up and you get gaps and misalignment between them and the lugs. The SEL stay put.

x2

and this leads to unnecessary wear at the lugs of the case frame from the misalignment and constant rubbing. it will take years but it happened to my submariner. i didn't think to take pictures at the time but when i brought the watch in for service, there were little slivers of steel at the lugs that i was able to pick off with my finger nail, almost like pieces of tinfoil.

i replaced the bracelet after 20 years with a SEL model, which was of course unauthorized according to rolex (swapped a 93250 SEL for my older 93150 non SEL)