New Rolex clasps - How do they show wear and touch up?

[Eric88]

I'm not sure how long Rolex has been using the new clasps like the GMTIIc, Sub-C and other models that no longer have the "stamped" appearance like the older 93150 or 93250 bracelets. We all know those older bracelets handle desk diving scuffs pretty well and can be quickly cleaned up with a Bergeon brush or ScotchBrite sponge.

The newer clasps have more surface area and less detail in terms of not being stamped links. I've not owned my Sub-C long enough to see much wear and tear, but curious to ask those of you that have seen a year or two with these clasps. How do they patina? Have you cleaned them up or just let them get scuffed? Photos are always awesome. Thanks.

[sond86]

Mine is 3 weeks old so lucklily still looks new. Thats why I like it with the brushed finished better than the daytona ss with polished ceenter li ks for that reason

How often do you clean yours? I find when I sweat it makes grayish dark spots in my wrist. So I wash it about oncoe a week and dry it on a strong air hand dryer.

One problem is how do you clean arou d the day magnifier and bezel luminous dot I've had to use a toothpick and cloth.

[thesharkfactor]

Originally Posted by sond86

One problem is how do you clean arou d the day magnifier and bezel luminous dot I've had to use a toothpick and cloth.

soft cloth, instead of rubbing the cyclop, push the cloth along the surface of the crystal and into and around the cyclop. soft enough cloth and enough pressure and it will clean right into the very edges.

if you find this doesnt remove the dirt, soft toothbrush, warm soapy water will do the job best.

[buke45]

I had TT Daytona and lets just say I have only bought watches with the Super Jubilees since then.

[jnkay]

I resort to using a thin strip of clear glossy scotch tape over the polished portion of the clasp, rather than continuing to accumulate scratches. Why? Because the clasp is so prominent in the new sub, and I'd rather have it shine. I let fine scratches accumulate on my bracelet for several months to a year before touching up, but the tape method has completely eliminated new scratches on the clasp, and the tape it is completely undetectable.

[Eric88]

I've now worn my new Sub-C for 3 weeks, 24/7 during that time. I have started to pick up scuffs on the clasp top and edges. The ridges on the clasp seem to take the brunt of the beating, showing scuffs along each edge of the middle ridge. Since the top of the Sub-C clasp is brushed, it is not too big of a deal and will look fairly natural once the entire clasp builds up some patina.

On the polished edge of the clasp, I managed to get a pretty good scratch here that would not have been noticeable on a brushed edge. But that's what happens when you wear a nice watch!

I'm not worried as this Sub is built to last and I'm interested to watch the clasp and bracelet age naturally over time. I may one day consider brushing the polished edges of the bracelet like the older 93150 and 92350 bracelets, but that will be a long ways into the future.

[JBat]

Watches get scratches. No way around it. Wear it and enjoy it.

[jeremyam]

Originally Posted by jnkay

I resort to using a thin strip of clear glossy scotch tape over the polished portion of the clasp, rather than continuing to accumulate scratches. Why? Because the clasp is so prominent in the new sub, and I'd rather have it shine. I let fine scratches accumulate on my bracelet for several months to a year before touching up, but the tape method has completely eliminated new scratches on the clasp, and the tape it is completely undetectable.

are you being serious?

[spuds]

Originally Posted by jnkay

I resort to using a thin strip of clear glossy scotch tape over the polished portion of the clasp.....

Seriously?

[Puffy]

Originally Posted by JBat

Watches get scratches. No way around it. Wear it and enjoy it.

[StarSovereign]

Got my GMT in Feb, and the Clasp is the most worn part...

[CoopJr]

Originally Posted by jnkay

I resort to using a thin strip of clear glossy scotch tape over the polished portion of the clasp, rather than continuing to accumulate scratches. Why? Because the clasp is so prominent in the new sub, and I'd rather have it shine. I let fine scratches accumulate on my bracelet for several months to a year before touching up, but the tape method has completely eliminated new scratches on the clasp, and the tape it is completely undetectable.

Originally Posted by jeremyam

are you being serious?

Originally Posted by spuds

Seriously?

I do the same.

Flame suit on!

[Sixxgrand1]

Fishing, hunting, daily wear through a very active lifestyle.....and five months later...nothing...the case has it's hits and bangs...but the clasp is just fine

[Foxglove]

Originally Posted by Sixxgrand1

Fishing, hunting, daily wear through a very active lifestyle.....and five months later...nothing...the case has it's hits and bangs...but the clasp is just fine

Wow -- incredible. Do you ever sit at a desk? Seems like my [non Rolex-]clasps get scratches just working on computers/pushing papers.

~Ross

[jnkay]

Originally Posted by jeremyam

are you being serious?

Yes, seriously. The polished sub-c clasp is the only part of my watch that continually accumulates MAJOR scuffs and scratches, so on a whim I put a thin strip of invisible tape over the center polished portion, and I was so impressed with the stealth and effectiveness of the tape that I kept it on during the work week to avoid desk scratches.

[GradyPhilpott]

Originally Posted by thesharkfactor

...soft toothbrush, warm soapy water will do the job best.

The best advice for cleaning any Oyster Perpetual.

[jnkay]

Originally Posted by CoopJr

I do the same.

Flame suit on!

Hey, nice clasp! Have an extra flame suit I could borrow?

[ArthurU]

Very sleek!

[hcivic91]

In general desk-diving marks on brushed stainless don't bother me but......

This week my Sub-C and the metal part of an AC power adapter met with near disastrous results in my carry-on. Got out the trusty ol' Scotch Brite pad and the bracelet and clasp are looking nearly new. This is without any watch-making or metal polishing skill - I'm an economist.

[davidf]

I think the tape idea is ingenious. Like the clear rock guards on a car

[ersnyder]

Looks nice, but no "patina!"

[Route 66]

If there is anybody here who can get me one of those in stainless, please PM me.

[jnkay]

Originally Posted by davidf

I think the tape idea is ingenious. Like the clear rock guards on a car

Exactly.

[Sixxgrand1]

Originally Posted by Foxglove

Wow -- incredible. Do you ever sit at a desk? Seems like my [non Rolex-]clasps get scratches just working on computers/pushing papers.
~Ross

No. Very fortunately I DO NOT sit at a desk anymore..just the outdoors and casual living..

[thepurze]

Clear nail polish or spray bandaid on the clasp will stop scratches the purze

[Cabaiguan]

Originally Posted by thepurze

Clear nail polish or spray bandaid on the clasp will stop scratches the purze

Spray BandAid...that's GENIUS!