When making a Rolex purchase, it is always important to familiarize yourself with the specific details of the reference you are interested in. With so many working parts, some details can be overlooked, even after you take the watch home. The difference between the Oysterclasp and Oysterlock is subtle, but it is important that you know which one you have in case it ever needs to be replaced or you purchase a strap that incorporates the clasp.

Rolex Oysterlock Clasp on Oyster Bracelet (photo: Rolex)

The photo above shows a brushed Oyster bracelet with polished center links fitted with an Oysterlock clasp. You can see the snap-fit lever with the Rolex crown logo opened to expose the folding blades. When snapped shut, the crown is used to open the clasp. When the clasp is locked, you can see a small piece of the clasp cover exposed between the crown and the links.

Rolex Oysterclasp Clasp on Oyster Bracelet (photo: Rolex)

The Oysterclasp, shown above on a brushed Oyster bracelet, is a more simplified clasp. The crown logo is imprinted on the clasp cover, not on the lever. On this clasp there is no space between the lever and the bracelet like on the Oysterlock. This is the easiest way to tell the difference between this and the Oysterlock - that and the position of the crown logo.

Rolex also offers a Crownclasp option which conceals the clasp below the bracelet, with only the crown logo visible between links. You can check out all of the bracelet options and the clasps that go along with them in my previous post on Rolex bracelet options. If you're curious about the difference between the Glidelock and Fliplock extension systems, check out my post on that.

>>BACK TO OWNER'S GUIDE