Allergic to rolex

[Jim Smyth]

Originally Posted by superdog

its not really realistic for Rolex to put a "warning" on their watches for the maybe problems of potentially millions of people.

there are a ton of people with allergies to a lot of things. i am one of them.

and i do my research with just about everything before i eat, buy, lay, or bathe in it.

we all have to take some personal responsibility sometime.

There ya go................. I would assume the OP knew that they have had reactions to some metals previous to this watch purchase. Since your having a issue with this watch you have been given solutions to your problem already in this thread. If your looking for Rolex to offer you another solution I wouldnt be holding my breath. The solution is out there, you need to make a choice one way or another and go with it.

[breitlings]

I also suffer from this to a degree, I have found the below helped me:
1)RubberB strap - I can wear the watch indefinitely without rashes
2)904l band - take off watch at night. Helps cut down irritation - perhaps it gives the skin time to recover and the 904l to "coat itself." 904l actually develops a finish when exposed to oxygen which makes it more corrosive and pitting resistant.
3) Take off watch if my wrist is wet. --
4) have a collection of vintage rolex. My 16710 and 18078 do not cause irritation. Nor do my other watches so I rotate them and this also cuts down on irritation and rashes.

[hunterp27]

Originally Posted by Val2

Thanks for all posts, does anyone think that Rolex should at least be offering a hypoallergenic alternative, lots of gold products can cause allergic symptoms similar to that of the nickel so I tend to avoid gold. Many stainless watches I have worn in the past are completely fine.

No, I don't believe Rolex has any obligation to make a hypo version of its products. I truly do sympathize with you as it would suck to find yourself in this position. Now, if the AD you bought it from was really trying to make you happy, they could work with you on trading it towards something else that doesn't bother you, but to heave this onto Rolex.......no. I'm feeling for you but this is a corner case that a manufacturer can't build their business around.

[breitlings]

I do wonder though if such allergies could allow option of an oysterflex. That seems reasonable.

[Val2]

It would be very interesting to know if this affects a lot of people or just a few in the minority. It's not an option for a lot of people to own a selection of these watches, for many like myself they are a once in a lifetime purchase, monies saved over 25 years, and statistics on the prevalence of nickel dermatitis at 10 to 20 % of population shouldn't be wrong. I still would like some feedback on how best to approach this company as a solution for one could be a solution for many.

[Roll the Lex]

Originally Posted by 123Blueface

Nickel is often used to make white gold as well.

Oh... I have a blro.
Just to be safe, maybe I should pick up a yg dd40!

[josephvman]

Have you considered a Tudor Pelagos? Not a Rolex but a tremendous piece and and the titanium shouldn't be an issue for you.

A NATO or Rubber B strap along with a sticker of some sort on the caseback might also work.

[Val2]

I get the impression from many on the forum that devoted Rolex aficionados you all may be, there is no real feedback from anyone who has had any kind of issue or problem with their purchase. Maybe I'm using the wrong forum here for queries, again thanks for all replies.

[Val2]

In our global environment allergies are on the increase. Being allergic to Nickel is nothing in the scheme of things but does exist as a real and debilitating condition. These watches are beautiful purchases that should perform and function comparative to their cost. In this case, which again I believe is not an isolated case, it does not, and I simply cannot believe a company as large and extensive as Rolex can't have a solution to this. It would be interesting to hear of any others with similar feedback.

[phils]

I have the same problem,especially in the summer, from my 16610. The rash itches like mad.
A little Cordaid stops the rash.

I bought a Tudor Pelagos, titanium dontchaknow, and no rash.
Wash watch nightly with soap and water.
Also don't take metallic vitamins.

Rolex will not change any steel formula to please a few customers as they make models in other metals.

[Val2]

It's very kind of people to say I should wash the watch, but nickel dermatitis is not correlated to cleanliness. This is a real condition, thanks again to all who have replied and to those who have understood that they needlessly need to put up with a rash just to wear their purchase, companies have a responsibility to their customer not just in terms of satisfaction but in terms of health and well being.

[phils]

Originally Posted by Val2

I get the impression from many on the forum that devoted Rolex aficionados you all may be, there is no real feedback from anyone who has had any kind of issue or problem with their purchase. Maybe I'm using the wrong forum here for queries, again thanks for all replies.

No, it's a proper forum. Have you looked at Timezone?

[Jim Smyth]

People gave you solutions to your problem in this thread. Rolex will not respond back to you on this forum. The "only" way to get a hold of them directly is to write to them in Switzerland because they don't list any phone numbers to call. Let us know what they have to say when you get a response. Others have gone down this path so be patient.

[Val2]

I don't mean to be unkind but using nail varnish or a rubber band underneath is a solution but not one that comes directly from the company. An everyday item like a watch must function and in this case it is impaired by the high nickel content.

[Relyt]

Originally Posted by Val2

It would be very interesting to know if this affects a lot of people or just a few in the minority. It's not an option for a lot of people to own a selection of these watches, for many like myself they are a once in a lifetime purchase, monies saved over 25 years, and statistics on the prevalence of nickel dermatitis at 10 to 20 % of population shouldn't be wrong. I still would like some feedback on how best to approach this company as a solution for one could be a solution for many.

Even if the 10-20% is correct, the market is not nearly large enough for Rolex to be concerned with, or spend resources on.

I feel bad as I would be devastated if I couldn't wear my watch. However, with the "millions" of emails/ calls Rolex gets, I don't think they will put a great deal of effort into solving this problem. Especially if TRF has already given you a plethora of other options. Rolex themselves, if they got involved, would only give you the same options TRF has.


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[Relyt]

Originally Posted by Val2

It's very kind of people to say I should wash the watch, but nickel dermatitis is not correlated to cleanliness. This is a real condition, thanks again to all who have replied and to those who have understood that they needlessly need to put up with a rash just to wear their purchase, companies have a responsibility to their customer not just in terms of satisfaction but in terms of health and well being.

Rolex HAS created a solution. They sell Platinum, White Gold, Yellow Gold, and Rose Gold solutions. If you would like, I'm sure it's fair to say these are "hypoallergenic alternatives." They are just not labeled as "allergy solution to nickel rashes" on the tag.

I'm still sort of confused on what you are asking. TRF has given you plenty of alternatives and Rolex has been making an alternative for your allergy for 100 years.

I feel terrible for you, but if I was allergic to leather, I wouldn't buy a car with leather seats. If I was allergic to gold, I wouldn't buy a gold ring. If I was allergic to milk, I wouldn't drink it. As someone said on here earlier, it's also CUSTOMER responsibility. You can't expect Rolex to fix a problem that isn't "really a problem."

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[supra8903]

I have a similar issue. I bought a Rolex sub c a few months back, and it burned. I returned it (great AD). Went for allergy testing a few months back and its a Copper issue for me not nickel.
I stick to Panerai, Breitling and am not looking at vintage (304L) Rolex.

[Sublover2166]

Originally Posted by Relyt

Rolex HAS created a solution. They sell Platinum, White Gold, Yellow Gold, and Rose Gold solutions. If you would like, I'm sure it's fair to say these are "hypoallergenic alternatives." They are just not labeled as "allergy solution to nickel rashes" on the tag.

I'm still sort of confused on what you are asking. TRF has given you plenty of alternatives and Rolex has been making an alternative for your allergy for 100 years.

I feel terrible for you, but if I was allergic to leather, I wouldn't buy a car with leather seats. If I was allergic to gold, I wouldn't buy a gold ring. If I was allergic to milk, I wouldn't drink it. As someone said on here earlier, it's also CUSTOMER responsibility. You can't expect Rolex to fix a problem that isn't "really a problem."

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Exactly. OP, this may be an issue for you, but don't expect Rolex to do anything. If you do, you will surely be disappointed. This will be up to you to be proactive and find a solution for yourself, not Rolex. You have been given many options by many here to consider, whether you use them or not is your decision.

[KrismanX]

Originally Posted by Val2

Hi, I have unfortunately just realised that as well as loving my new rolex I am allergic to the high nickel content of the steel bracelet.
I have phoned head office in London who all be it sympathetic to my problem can't help. I find this very disappointing, nickel allergy sufferers should be aware of the high nickel content in rolex steel. The dealers and promo brochures should also be practicing a more informed approach, as the only apparent option left is to sell it.
You would think rolex could provide a hypoallergenic steel replacement bracelet as 10 to 20% of the population suffer from a nickel allergy that is on the rise. Some feedback on how to better promote a response from Rolex would be much appreciated.

I was having this issue with my Daytona... I love my watch so much that I refused to remove it the first two weeks I had it. Turns out it would irritate my wrist when I was wearing it to sleep (i.e. waaay too long without any wrist-rest) or during my prolonged hiking and bicycle trips.

I would switch between wrists if one got a little irritated. Now I just remove at the end of day and try to wash with soap n water once a week. No more wrist rash!!

Good luck!!

[GeeRam]

Originally Posted by Val2

It's very kind of people to say I should wash the watch, but nickel dermatitis is not correlated to cleanliness. This is a real condition, thanks again to all who have replied and to those who have understood that they needlessly need to put up with a rash just to wear their purchase, companies have a responsibility to their customer not just in terms of satisfaction but in terms of health and well being.

I have recently developed this condition, and have not been able to wear my Sub 16610 for about 4 months now. I have been told it may have developed as a result of stress while dealing with my now recently deceased mother's terminal illness. It maybe that within another few months, I may be able to wear the Sub again......maybe, maybe not.

However, I'm sorry, but you seem to be just ignoring the posts already on this matter that Rolex won't do anything about it.....why should they? They don't make a secret of the fact they use 904L SS, and so, if you knew you had a nickel allergy before you bought the watch, one has to ask, why did you buy it...?
If like me, you've developed it since having the watch a while (had mine 5 years) then......well, that just tough and one these little things in life that just suck.
For me it's even more galling, as a year ago, I sold my titanium Omega Seamaster Pro


If I can't wear my Sub again, I accept I'll just have to sell it.

[toneafficianado]

One thought here is to go for a titanium watch. Omega and Seiko make a few great models of those. Ti is famous fro being less of a skin irritant. I have dental implants made of it and they're perfect.

[locutus49]

There are many viable options in this thread for you to consider.

[Val2]

Having a nickel allergy doesn't immediately make you a materials specialist, the point of my blog is to discuss why Rolex doesn't make the consumer aware of the materials used in the watch either in promo brochures or in dealership dealings. Their choice of material for the watch should be listed on the watch brochure, and in being aware of the nickel allergy issue their dealers should be appraised in selling the products as a possible issue for discussion. This is a manufacturing and advertising issue, which ultimately most companies try hard to resolve for their customers or at least offer a viable alternative. Again all replies welcome.

[axjimenez]

I have this problem as well. Typically it only happens when I sweat extensively and the bracelet is dirty. I use light dish soap and wash the bracelet once a week. Prior to putting it back on I put a dab of rubbing alcohol on the underside of the bracelet and let that dry. For the most part that eliminates the problem completely.

[locutus49]

If I had an allergy I would mention it up front when buying anything.

[Val2]

I did mention metals allergy to dealership, I honestly believe they were unaware of any issues regarding the nickel content of the stainless steel. I don't blame the dealer at all on this one, they were kind and very knowledgable about the product, and if I thought it was an issue for the dealer to resolve I would take it back there. But I don't think this is a dealer issue, apart from the obvious part in which Rolex should appraise them of these type of issues, I truly believe this is an issue for the manufacturer ie. Rolex to resolve.

[fskywalker]

If you do like the watch, would suggest you try some of the remedies mentioned here to keep the watch. It is unlikely that Rolex will do anything about it, sorry about your trouble!

[GolfPunk]

I feel for you with the allergy but...... What you're saying is like saying:

'I bought this Rolex now I have £5500 debt on my credit card I can't afford to pay....Rolex should do something about this!'

It really isn't Rolex problem at the end of the day I'm afraid but I wish you good luck!

[tkerrmd]

Originally Posted by Rolex addict

Or buy a PM Rolex. Sounds reasonable to me. This is my favorite.

Best cure!

[Jim Smyth]

Until you contact Rolex directly..........................................