The weak link

[purcellj]

First I admit that I'm not a fully certified WIS so all that follows might be considered opinion...

It seems that the only brand (read WISers) that are fixated on bracelet condition is Rolex. Any Rolex listed for FS or FT that is over 5 yrs seems to focus on the condition on the bracelet and specifically the dreaded "stretch". [I use the term stretch to mean 'dirty' wear of the pins]

This leads to the obvious question... Does Rolex experience more stretch than other brands?

Option #1: Or are Rolex wearers more anal about stretch than other brands?

Option #2: Or is it that other high-end brands don't have the issue because they don't use metal bracelets?

Option #3: Or something that I haven't thought of?

Does stretch really effect the day-to-day wear? Or is it really a issue or resale value?

This might seem a troll-like question, but I have an Exp 2 and LV that were particular new when purchased, so I don't have any stretch experience.

John

[Mickey®]

Option #4 You think too much!!!

[z32turbo]

Stretch seems avoidable with cleaning and proper fit. Wouldn't worry too much.

[Keeperoftime]

Hmmm. I think it's something collector's like to know because, well... their collector's. A stretched bracelet is not as attractive as a tight bracelet etc. I'm not sure I actually answered your question... :(

[yannis]

Hi John i would say that Rolex bracelets that are more prone to stretch are still bomb-proof and have had a long life-span. The stretch does not necessarily refer to a bracelet that will fall off your wrists; but the harder the use the more the stretch. You get it back to top notch condition after the service though. Just my 0,14 eurocents (equals two cents at today's exchange rates).

[mastermixer]

Interesting question. It's difficult to say that vintage Rolex bracelets stretch more than any other brand. But most people wouldn't want to be walking around with a totally loose bracelet, and if they don't mind, they want to pay accordingly.

I think bracelet condition is usually disclosed because people buying the watch want know they will be able to wear it and it is a common enough question to be asked, that you mine as will include it in your listing if any stretch is present.

Almost any product you buy, that you intend on keeping for multiple years or even decades and beyond will likely experience some "wear and tear." They newer Rolex bracelets are more solid, but if you wear your watches often enough, the bracelet will eventually start to give.

If you clean your bracelet, you can probably reduce the grime that wears away at the metal, hopefully prolonging the life of your bracelet.