SEL Bracelet Versus Non-SEL Bracelet

[Leerob]

How much difference can you tell when wearing the non-SEL compared to the SEL Bracelet ? My TT Sub is the non-SEL but I think the SEL looks better when on the wrist.

Is there anyway to convert to a SEL Bracelet without having to purchase a new band? It would probably be easier to trade for a newer model that has the SEL.

Thanks for your responses.

Lee

[SPACE-DWELLER]

Welcome to TRF!

Some have reported that the non SEL bracelet for the Sub is much more comfortable to wear than the SEL version. I guess it's due to the more flexible non SEL's.

Anyway, here is a chart that shows bracelet options for various sport's Rolex watches:



As you can see, there are two options for the Sub Date, but unfortunately that does not mean that the bracelets are interchangeable. As far as I know you can not add a SEL bracelet on a case intended for a non SEL.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by Leerob

How much difference can you tell when wearing the non-SEL compared to the SEL Bracelet ? My TT Sub is the non-SEL but I think the SEL looks better when on the wrist.

Is there anyway to convert to a SEL Bracelet without having to purchase a new band? It would probably be easier to trade for a newer model that has the SEL.

Thanks for your responses.

Lee

Cannot convert non sel to the Sel,the only difference I have noticed is sometimes non sel bracelets rattle a bit.And apart from that little or no difference the non sel has been on the Sub for a few decades and has stood the time well.But the SEL is a improvement but not a ground shaking must have one at all costs IMHO
.

[Gurmot]

The non-SEL rattles (at least mine does) a bit more where the end pieces aren't as snug as the SEL. I think the non-SEL's may often feel more comfortable as they are generally older than the SEL versions and have therefore loosened up a bit. My 2007 SD SEL is still quite stiff in the joints around the clasp and therefore not a supple as my old 91350 band which is well broken-in. That said, I find them both very comfortable to wear.

Not a representative sample I'm afraid, just my opinion from ltd experience.

Cheers - Simon

[Arturo]

What year did they start the sel end links on the professional line? I have a GMT (2004) and a LV (2007) and they both have solid end links I think.

[mike]

Originally Posted by Arturo

What year did they start the sel end links on the professional line? I have a GMT (2004) and a LV (2007) and they both have solid end links I think.

The first sport reference to have SELs was the 16660 circa 1981. Others got them later.

I have both. In my own experience one seems to be as comfortable as the other though the SEL bracelet "feels" stronger(that's so subjective). Ease of changing goes to the non-sel and they do tend to rattle a bit after a while. Some have referred to this as the "Rolex rattle" LOL.

I do tend to size them a bit differently. Non-sels are one micro adjustment tighter.....I don't know why.

[f16570]

Is anyone's wrist that sensitive? Or is is more a noise issue?

[Tools]

I go back and forth all the time and I can't tell the difference... feel wise..

[Leerob]

Thanks Guys, it seems that which ever version you have is more than acceptable as far as being durable and confortable.

Thanks for all the interest and responses.

Lee

[CoopJr]

I have owned both SEL and non. IMO, I think the SEL is much sturdier.

[Ed Rooney]

I had a newish 14060M with non-sel, and now I have a Z-serial SD with the beefy SEL. Non-SEL is a little bit more comfortable, and the SEL is more sturdy. I like both and would simply keep whatever came with the watch.