Stiff Hinge on GMT II Bracelet

[AndrewCSH]

I've had the Blue/Black GMT for just under a year. The hinge on the bracelet that connects to the narrower bar that forms the closure sometimes gets very stiff. Then it goes back to normal. I use the Brookstone winder, and the watch makes a tight fit around the foam insert into the winder. Wondering if that is bad for the bracelet. Or it's been really cold. Perhaps that affects whatever lubrication is in the hinge - if any.

It's still under warranty so I might have the watchmaker at Tourneau look at it.

Has anyone else experienced this? I can live with it, but if it's and indication that the hinge is failing, I want to take care of it within the warranty period.

Thanks,

Andrew