Adjustability of rivet/folded link bracelets

[stewester]

Hello fellow vintage Rolex fans

I've recently purchased a 1967 Oyster Perpetual 1002 but it does not currently have a bracelet.

I'm on the hunt for a bracelet, ideally one that is period-correct for the watch, but I am in something of a quandary and would appreciate input from those experienced with rivet/folded link bracelets...

My wrists are beyond skinny (can't even wear a sub on a 93150 without permanent links being removed) and from what I can see, rivet and folded link bracelets do not appear to be particularly adjustable.

My question therefore comes in 3 parts...

1) How adjustable are 6635, 7205, 7835 bracelets for those with puny wrists such as me? I'm not too fussed over whether the adjustment can be reversed as I don't envisage ever selling the watch, more that may I struggle getting it adjusted to a wearable size in the first place!

2) Is there a period correct bracelet reference that I'm missing from 1) that may offer a better fit/easier adjustment?

3) Should I forget about even trying to find a period correct bracelet and just go for a 78350 which I'm pretty sure will fit fine?

Pic of the watch I'm referring to...



Thanks in advance for any advice!

[Woody]

I have a 78350 on my Oysterdate Ref: 6494 from 1958. I think it is a great bracelet and if you already know that it will fit you then that is the option I would go for. I also have the original 7205 bracelet which is rather small in comparison to the 78350. As far as I am aware you can pick-up a new 78350 from your AD. Hope you get sorted.

[Lesnerelli23]

Similar boat here! I just got a 6565 OP (1958) and I’m wondering about getting a bracelet and how it might fit. I used an omega style deployment clasp on my leather strap to get a better (more snug) fit.

I was lucky to pull off getting an 11 series SubC which fortunately has 1 more removable link than the current model and 2 more than the 5 digits! Between that and the micro adjustments, it fits beautifully.

[Tools]

On folded link bracelets, the links are unfolded and hammered back to add or remove links.

Essentially, all the links are "permanent", but can be removed, just like the permanent links on the later oyster bracelets.

Personally, I don't see why somebody would want a period correct bracelet. They're hair pullers and seldom in decent shape, and will not ever be "original", that boat has sailed.

[stewester]

Thanks for the advice guys, seems the consensus is leaning towards the 78350 option, with the first stop being an AD. Had no idea they were still available as replacements so thanks for that info Woody.

I like the idea of a period correct bracelet to evoke the original look and feel of what the watch would have been when new, but think for ease of adjustment and security when wearing a 78350 is gonna be the way to go.

[Dan S]

I guess Larry doesn't agree, but personally, I like the folded bracelets and the rivet bracelets.

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by Tools

Personally, I don't see why somebody would want a period correct bracelet. They're hair pullers and seldom in decent shape, and will not ever be "original", that boat has sailed.

I tend to agree. They also fall apart easily.

You don't always realize when a vintage bracelet breaks and the watch falls off your wrist - I've experienced this myself with my 1964 Gilt 5513.

Luckily I was at home and found it on the sofa. But if I'd been outdoors... #Phew