Evolution of Fluted Bezel

[NewEnthusiast]

Hi All

Sorry if this question has been asked before but Prof. Google has let me down on a question that's been lingering for a while. Specifically; how did the fluted bezel evolve? Does it have any impact on the function of the watch or is it just pretty?

J

[VaRobot]

Easier to grab/hold with gloves.

[kilyung]

Originally Posted by VaRobot

Easier to grab/hold with gloves.

While true, I'm not sure that's the purpose. I can't think of a single Rolex (except SkyD) with a fluted bezel that rotates. I think it evolved as a purely decorative design.

[VerticalHorizon]

Originally Posted by kilyung

While true, I'm not sure that's the purpose. I can't think of a single Rolex (except SkyD) with a fluted bezel that rotates. I think it evolved as a purely decorative design.

Turnograph.

[kilyung]

Originally Posted by VerticalHorizon

Turnograph.

Forgot about that one.

[MovieGuy]

The original fluted bezels were designed that way because the bezel screwed down onto the case. Today they are pressure-fitted to the watch and the design is just there to retain the original look.

[diracpoint]

From Rolex website ...

"Fluted Bezel

Features

When the Rolex Oyster first appeared in 1926, the fluted bezel had a functional purpose: it served to screw the bezel onto the case helping to ensure the waterproofness of the watch. It was, furthermore, identical to the fluting on the case back, which was also screwed onto the case for the same reason, using specific Rolex tools.

Over time, the fluting became a purely aesthetic element, available only in 18 ct yellow, Everose or white gold on Datejust and Day-Date models. The fluted bezel is rotatable on the Sky-Dweller, where it has regained functionality to allow easy selection of watch functions. Fluting is a genuine Rolex signature feature, a mark of distinction."

[kilyung]

Originally Posted by MovieGuy

The original fluted bezels were designed that way because the bezel screwed down onto the case. Today they are pressure-fitted to the watch and the design is just there to retain the original look.

That makes complete sense.

[NewEnthusiast]

Mystery solved! Thanks everyone.

[VaRobot]

Originally Posted by kilyung

While true, I'm not sure that's the purpose. I can't think of a single Rolex (except SkyD) with a fluted bezel that rotates. I think it evolved as a purely decorative design.

You don't consider the sharp edges of the Sub C bezel fluted?

Perhaps I am missing some semantics here

[Memphis]

Originally Posted by NewEnthusiast

Mystery solved! Thanks everyone.

"Mystery"???

Rolex.com is not a mystery...

[Memphis]

Originally Posted by VaRobot

You don't consider the sharp edges of the Sub C bezel fluted?



Perhaps I am missing some semantics here

The subs bezel is "Knurled" not "fluted"

[VaRobot]

Originally Posted by Memphis

The subs bezel is "Knurled" not "fluted"

Thanks for Clarification

[Old Expat Beast]

Originally Posted by Memphis

The subs bezel is "Knurled" not "fluted"

The Sub's bezel is not knurled, it is scalloped. The THC bezel is knurled, like this...

[Muzz]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

The Sub's bezel is not knurled, it is scalloped. The THC bezel is knurled, like this...

Sweet shot Adam!! I am a sucker for all things knurled, feels amazing on the finger tips

[motoikkyu]

My understanding is that the seals on the first oysters were made of lead, and that's why it was necessary to tighten the bezel from time to time.

[AK797]

Originally Posted by diracpoint

From Rolex website ...

"Fluted Bezel

Features

When the Rolex Oyster first appeared in 1926, the fluted bezel had a functional purpose: it served to screw the bezel onto the case helping to ensure the waterproofness of the watch. It was, furthermore, identical to the fluting on the case back, which was also screwed onto the case for the same reason, using specific Rolex tools.

Over time, the fluting became a purely aesthetic element, available only in 18 ct yellow, Everose or white gold on Datejust and Day-Date models. The fluted bezel is rotatable on the Sky-Dweller, where it has regained functionality to allow easy selection of watch functions. Fluting is a genuine Rolex signature feature, a mark of distinction."

Great that something functional turned into a distinctive aesthetic.

[Alexwwjd]

I learn something new everyday @ TRF.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Jocke]

Originally Posted by VaRobot

Easier to grab/hold with gloves.

That was what I was thinking but it not works on my watch, I have try to turn it for years without success.

[RinkRolex]

[speedolex]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

The Sub's bezel is not knurled, it is scalloped.

Scalloped or fluted, the Submariner's bezel shines as much bling off the watch as a Datejust's does, just at a different angle. Not saying it lacks a functional purpose, just saying it adds a little pizazz to the design.

[Old Expat Beast]

Originally Posted by Muzz

Sweet shot Adam!! I am a sucker for all things knurled, feels amazing on the finger tips

Thanks Steve....I can't take credit for the pic though. Just googled "knurled THC"!

[mrricks]

Originally Posted by Jocke

That was what I was thinking but it not works on my watch, I have try to turn it for years without success.

Now, that's a Rolex that's lived a full life and an owner that's not afraid of a few scratches here and there. I guess they didn't polish it at the last service.

Seriously though, what do you do to "break in" a watch like that?
Looks like road tar or bunker oil on it.

[Old Expat Beast]

Originally Posted by mrricks

Now, that's a Rolex that's lived a full life and an owner that's not afraid of a few scratches here and there. I guess they didn't polish it at the last service.

Seriously though, what do you do to "break in" a watch like that?
Looks like road tar or bunker oil on it.

www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=473256

[mrricks]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=473256

Thanks OEB, can always rely on you for seriously good info.

But still curious how the watch came to be in that condition.

[Muzz]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

Thanks Steve....I can't take credit for the pic though. Just googled "knurled THC"!

Awesome for sharing!! I thought it may have been pre cyclops mod. The THC is such a great piece, the knurled touch adds so much!!

[Seaotter]

Originally Posted by MovieGuy

The original fluted bezels were designed that way because the bezel screwed down onto the case. Today they are pressure-fitted to the watch and the design is just there to retain the original look.

[Abdullah71601]

Originally Posted by mrricks

Thanks OEB, can always rely on you for seriously good info.

But still curious how the watch came to be in that condition.

He's an auto mechanic and that's his daily beater?

[brandrea]

Originally Posted by Seaotter

Attachment 743730

[mrricks]

Originally Posted by Abdullah71601

He's an auto mechanic and that's his daily beater?

Thanks.
Rolex could use this in their advertising. Everyday real life use.