Will Rolex's Oysterflex Bracelet Make a Splash at Baselworld 2017?

.Tech.
Introduced in 2015 on the Yacht-Master 40 model, the Oysterflex bracelet offers the comfort and unique style of an elastomer strap with the technical innovation that Rolex is known for. As I mentioned in my post about my Rolex Baselworld 2017 predictions, it is speculated that this bracelet will be featured on more configurations than it is now. The question that remains is if it will be featured only on the Yacht-Master 40 or if they will also release an Oysterflex configuration for for another model. 
Rolex Oysterflex Bracelet (photo: Rolex/Thomas Hensinger)
Developed and patented by Rolex, the Oysterflex has a metal blade made from a flexible titanium and nickel alloy at its core that attaches the clasp to the case. The blade is then enveloped with a black elastomer that is both durable and resistant to environmental effects. It is equipped with a longitudinal cushion system to stabilize the watch on the wrist. The photo above shows the bracelet with a rose gold Oysterlock safety clasp as it appears on the Everose gold Yacht-Master 40 model. 

If the watchmaker does add the Oysterflex to additional configurations, I believe it will keep its black color but maybe appear on white gold or stainless steel models in addition to the Everose YM. If they do go ahead and add it to another model, my prediction would be that they would add it to the Sea-Dweller 4000 as 2017 represents an anniversary year for the model, something Rolex likes to commemorate with its latest innovations. For more information on the 2016 Yacht-Master 40 model that features the Oysterflex, check out my post here. To check out all of Rolex's bracelet options, check out my post here. 

Five Rolex Bracelet Types

.Tech.
Perhaps one of the easiest ways to identify a Rolex wristwatch is by the bracelet. Rolex offers five different bracelet types on their current models, each with a unique look and functionality. 

the 5 rolex bracelet types available on current models
The Five Rolex Bracelet Types Available 
Oysterflex Bracelet 

 The Oysterflex is the newest bracelet manufactured by Rolex for their 2015 Yacht-Master model. This black elastomer bracelet has a blade made of a titanium-nickel alloy at its core that attaches the case to the clasp. The inside of the bracelet is lined with a longitudinal cushion system that stabilizes the watch on the wrist and it is fitted with an Everose gold Oysterlock clasp.

Rolex Oysterflex Bracelet
Rolex Oysterflex Bracelet

Oyster Bracelet 

 The most universal and identifiable of the Rolex bracelets is the Oyster bracelet. Composed of flat and broad three piece links, this bracelet can be fitted with all of the Rolex clasps currently available. The Oyster was introduced in the late 1930s and is currently fitted on the most popular Rolex models, including the Submariner, Daytona and Sky-Dweller.

Rolex Oysterflex bracelet
Rolex Oyster Bracelet

Jubilee Bracelet

The five piece metal link Jubilee bracelet was introduced in 1945 on the Oyster Perpetual Datejust model. It can be fitted with either an Oysterclasp or a Crownclasp. The photo below shows a two-tone Jubilee with the Crownclasp.

Rolex Jubilee Bracelet
President Bracelet 

 Perhaps one of the most prestigious Rolex bracelets, the iconic President bracelet features a three-piece semicircular link that was introduced in 1956 on the Oyster Perpetual Day-Date. It is always fitted with a Crownclasp, as shown in the photograph below and is reserved for the Day-Date model and some Lady's Datejust models.

Rolex President Bracelet 
Pearlmaster Bracelet 

 The Pearlmaster made its debut in 1992 on the model of the same name. It features five rounded links on a sophisticated and smooth bracelet that always comes fitted with a Crownclasp. The rectangular links on this model made it perfect for adding diamonds down the bracelet as we see in the current Pearlmaster model.

Rolex Pearlmaster Bracelet 

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Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master

.Rolex Models.
Appearing on the scene in 1992, the Yacht-Master is still considered one of the newer models in the Rolex lineup, followed by the Sky-Dweller model two decades later in 2012.

The current model is offered with an Oysterflex bracelet made with a titanium-nickel alloy blade that attaches the case to the clasp and is coated with black elastomer, giving it a sportier look than we have seen from Rolex in past models. The inside of the bracelet is lined with a longitudinal cushion system designed for a comfortable fit.

Everose Gold Rolex Yachtmaster with Oysterflex Bracelet
Rolex Yacht-Master Everose Gold with Oysterflex Bracelet
The Yacht-Master is the only one of the current Rolex Oyster professional models that is available with either a 35mm or 40mm case. The 40mm version is equipped with a 3135 movement and the 35mm with a 2235 movement. It also features a bi-directional, rotatable, 60 minute graduated bezel with a black ceramic inlay and raised numerals.

Waterproof up to 100 meters, this incarnation of the Yacht-Master provides an interesting mix of the luxury Rolex is known for and the pragmatism that is more complimentary to those who wear the timepiece on a daily basis - especially on the open seas.

The suggested retail price for the Yacht-Master configuration shown above (reference # 116655) is 23,800 Swiss Francs (approximately $24,964 US).

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