Real owners views on oysterflex?

[inadeje]

I’m considering purchasing an oysterflex clad Daytona. I have a soft spot for Daytona’s and perhaps an oysterflex would be perfect for the days that I’m just relaxing, beaches, pools, vacations, gym, running etc. I usually grab a Panerai on rubber for that type of leisure time, but maybe an oysterflex would equally fit the bill?

Questions for oysterflex owners

Is the OF really as comfortable as they say?
Does sweat and grime accumulate in the bellows?
Do the bellows leave any strange indentations on wrist afterwards?
Do you tend to wear the OF tighter than you would a bracelet?
As a replacement to a sports watch, would the OF tick the boxes?

Any other points I should consider if I go for OF for those times when a bracelet doesn’t really match the activity?

Thanks and

[oconnorandrew64]

I live in a very humid climate
The OF is perfect for it - very comfortable on the wrist, no issues with sweat in such a humid climate, perfect sports watch. Can’t go wrong.


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[rolexpure]

How easy is the Oysterflex to clean? After a hot sweaty day can you simply wash it with soap and water and what about drying it?

I find that with some rubber straps when drying it with a microfibre cloth it will leave tiny hairs on the rubber which makes it look horrid or this doesnt happen with the OF?

[amanbra]

My views from owning a 126655.

Very comfortable but the flaps make the watch sit weird on my wrist. I wore the watch df and the f flaps were bigger than the d flaps. So though the watch was comfortable the 12 sat higher off my wrist than the 6.

The watch also felt more head heavy vs a full pm bracelet due to weight distribution.

Worst of all the strap changes are a Pia. Even rsc nicked the lug during the change.

I won’t but again until they make some changes to the design. Less flappy and easy access slots to get spring bar tools in.


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[djdm]

Originally Posted by inadeje

Questions for oysterflex owners

Is the OF really as comfortable as they say?
Does sweat and grime accumulate in the bellows?
Do the bellows leave any strange indentations on wrist afterwards?
Do you tend to wear the OF tighter than you would a bracelet?
As a replacement to a sports watch, would the OF tick the boxes?

Any other points I should consider if I go for OF for those times when a bracelet doesn’t really match the activity?

Thanks and

Yes, the OF is very comfortable. However, it is bulkier than the oyster bracelet and will not hug the wrist as tightly due to the bellows.

I wear the OF fairly tight and yes the bellows leave marks on my wrist that disappear in an hour or so. This doesn’t bother me in the least.

I use the exact same OF sizing as I have on my 116500 based on the conversion between oyster links and OF sizes. 4 links = D, 5 links = E, etc. Even the clasp setting is the same. This conversion has been well explained by others here, so id recommend that you search for those posts. Let me know if you can’t find them and I’ll look myself. As a side note id also recommend not using the Rolex measuring tape. Use this conversion instead.

Absolutely, the OF Daytona is a perfect sports watch in my opinion. I have the WG model, which has a vintage 6265 look that I love.

Other thoughts:

1. The OF Daytona wears larger than the SS. My sense is that most people will find this to be a positive attribute. I don’t.

2. Be sure to alert the AD or RSC to be careful when changing the OF straps.

[Tanalasta]

Agree it’s very comfortable.

Hot humid weather isn’t an issue. When sizing it, ensure you take into account your wrist size and temperature and have the easy link adjusted appropriately. You want it to be not so tight to allow for wrist expansion by clicking the easylink open or closed. I wear mine open in summer and closed in winter and it’s perfect.

Nicking the lugs is common. Play with the micro adjust first unless you’re sure you need to change the strap.

I don’t wear mine so tight as to leave marks. Ymmv.

It’s more symmetrical than the steel version and is top heavy. Don’t mind that.

Ideally, try an exhibition piece before you buy.


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[rambo99]

I own the RG daytona oysterflex, my advice is rolex has catered for all the issues you mentioned, you don't have to worry about them at all, go get it and enjoy it.

[SpeedyTuomas]

In my opinion the only downside with OF is that it really is a sports/recreational watch and as the biggest downside the clasp part is way too big.

[Tanalasta]

Originally Posted by SpeedyTuomas

In my opinion the only downside with OF is that it really is a sports/recreational watch and as the biggest downside the clasp part is way too big.

Part of me like the clasp size as it allows for the easylink. It’s a lot easier to flip open/close an easy link than fiddle with glidelock. And at least one is required as the oysterflex isn’t really that forgiving.

That and asking for “less” gold on a watch just doesn’t agree with my sensibility


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[bp1000]

Another vote for the OF Daytona

I found the fins a little tight initially but once I moved the micro adjustment it was perfect.

Brand new they start off stiff but after two weeks they soften up and become very comfortable.

No issues with dirt under the fins or folds. I bought it (wg steel dial OF) for holiday, casual, weekend use but found I could wear it as my daily in all conditions. Really love that watch.

[subby718]

I absolutely love the look of the OF, especially on the Daytona models, however, my OCD issues would prevent me buying one. Surely it’s just a massive dust magnet?

[inadeje]

Originally Posted by oconnorandrew64

I live in a very humid climate
The OF is perfect for it - very comfortable on the wrist, no issues with sweat in such a humid climate, perfect sports watch. Can’t go wrong.

Thanks, that was an important point for here in Miami.

Originally Posted by amanbra

My views from owning a 126655. Very comfortable but the flaps make the watch sit weird on my wrist. I wore the watch df and the f flaps were bigger than the d flaps. So though the watch was comfortable the 12 sat higher off my wrist than the 6. The watch also felt more head heavy vs a full pm bracelet due to weight distribution. Worst of all the strap changes are a Pia. Even rsc nicked the lug during the change. I won’t but again until they make some changes to the design. Less flappy and easy access slots to get spring bar tools in.

Thanks, I just looked and It looks like I need a D & E size. Yes, I wondered why they omitted the access slits present on metal bracelets

Originally Posted by djdm

Yes, the OF is very comfortable. However, it is bulkier than the oyster bracelet and will not hug the wrist as tightly due to the bellows. I wear the OF fairly tight and yes the bellows leave marks on my wrist that disappear in an hour or so. This doesn’t bother me in the least. I use the exact same OF sizing as I have on my 116500 based on the conversion between oyster links and OF sizes. 4 links = D, 5 links = E, etc. Even the clasp setting is the same. This conversion has been well explained by others here, so id recommend that you search for those posts. Let me know if you can’t find them and I’ll look myself. As a side note id also recommend not using the Rolex measuring tape. Use this conversion instead. Absolutely, the OF Daytona is a perfect sports watch in my opinion. I have the WG model, which has a vintage 6265 look that I love. Other thoughts:
1. The OF Daytona wears larger than the SS. My sense is that most people will find this to be a positive attribute. I don’t.
2. Be sure to alert the AD or RSC to be careful when changing the OF straps.

Great advice thanks

Originally Posted by Tanalasta

Agree it’s very comfortable. Hot humid weather isn’t an issue. When sizing it, ensure you take into account your wrist size and temperature and have the easy link adjusted appropriately. You want it to be not so tight to allow for wrist expansion by clicking the easylink open or closed. I wear mine open in summer and closed in winter and it’s perfect.
Nicking the lugs is common. Play with the micro adjust first unless you’re sure you need to change the strap.
I don’t wear mine so tight as to leave marks. Ymmv.
It’s more symmetrical than the steel version and is top heavy. Don’t mind that.
Ideally, try an exhibition piece before you buy.

Thanks

Originally Posted by rambo99

I own the RG daytona oysterflex, my advice is rolex has catered for all the issues you mentioned, you don't have to worry about them at all, go get it and enjoy it.

Good to know

Originally Posted by bp1000

Another vote for the OF Daytona
I found the fins a little tight initially but once I moved the micro adjustment it was perfect.
Brand new they start off stiff but after two weeks they soften up and become very comfortable.
No issues with dirt under the fins or folds. I bought it (wg steel dial OF) for holiday, casual, weekend use but found I could wear it as my daily in all conditions. Really love that watch.

Excellent, much appreciated

[Calatrava r]

I have the Daytona on the OF. It is fine. Truthfully however, I would much rather have the watch on a full gold bracelet. If the urge hits you can always remove the bracelet and put a Rubber B on it. Both of both worlds.

[macrowatch]

1. Yes, assuming shape of the wrist is right too. Otherwise find dig in.

2. Yes, but quick wish gets it off. Doesn’t stick like other cheap rubber.

3. Yes if fit is off.

4. Yes.

5. Mini glidelock is a game changer for comfort. Real shame the Daytonas still have not gotten them yet like the YM has.

[Galion]

If you like your PAM rubber strap, you’ll love the Oysterflex. My only issue was that it cheapened the look of my 116655 so I had to let the watch go.

[SpeedyTuomas]

Originally Posted by Tanalasta

Part of me like the clasp size as it allows for the easylink. It’s a lot easier to flip open/close an easy link than fiddle with glidelock. And at least one is required as the oysterflex isn’t really that forgiving.

That and asking for “less” gold on a watch just doesn’t agree with my sensibility


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Yes the easy link is nice, but the clasp it too big. E.g. Richard Mille has nice adjustable straps with very well made clasps.

[Watchflair]

My favorite by far -

Super easy to clean - soap and water for me or my lenses cleaning towelettes.

Comfort - super.

That being said its not my beach or pool watch - I wear it regularly but with some awareness to what I’m wearing.







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[helloworldies]

Oysterflex works best with the Glidelock...It's a little bit of a lottery getting the right fit without.

It also allows you to experiment as to whether you prefer it tight or loose.

Tight looks better with less wrist flare from the strap.

When you get it right it's really comfortable.

[JodyHighroller]

I'm a current 126655 owner and love OF!

It is very comfortable and blows the standard rubber straps (Panerai, etc) out of the water. It isn't even in the same league. OF is easy to clean and you can use whatever solution you use to clean the watch case on the bracelet. I use WristClean and it works great! I haven't had any issues with sweat or grime accumulating in my experience.

I like to wear my watches snug and the OF is designed with that in mind. The reason for cushions underneath is to aid in stability and also ventilation. It is normal for the OF bracelet to stick above the surface of the skin ever so slightly. You'll have small indents on the skin, but that goes away quick after removing the watch. OF is the perfect bracelet solution for a sports watch imo.

As mentioned previously, just make sure whoever is the doing the sizing has experience with OF. It is very easy for the spring bars to pop out and ding the case because there isn't any spring bar windows on the back side of the bracelet. My case was dinged by the RSC, but they made me a new matching serial # case and all was well.

I hope this year Rolex will roll out the mini Glidelock for the Daytona OF. All of the other OF references have it (YMs, SkyD on OF) except the Daytonas. It makes a huge difference with on the fly adjustment and in the initial sizing phase. The OF comes in may different sizes, but it has a large gap between them so if one's wrist size fits in between that's where the mini Glidelock comes in handy! The EasyLink on the Daytona can only offer minor adjustment.

[inadeje]

Originally Posted by Watchflair

My favorite by far -

Super easy to clean - soap and water for me or my lenses cleaning towelettes.

Comfort - super.

That being said its not my beach or pool watch - I wear it regularly but with some awareness to what I’m wearing.







Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Yes, I agree that the yellow or RG variants can’t really be considered as sports/leisure pieces. At least in my antiquated mindset. That’s why I’d go for WG. Thanks for your other valuable points, much appreciated

[inadeje]

Originally Posted by JodyHighroller

I'm a current 126655 owner and love OF!

It is very comfortable and blows the standard rubber straps (Panerai, etc) out of the water. It isn't even in the same league. OF is easy to clean and you can use whatever solution you use to clean the watch case on the bracelet. I use WristClean and it works great! I haven't had any issues with sweat or grime accumulating in my experience.

I like to wear my watches snug and the OF is designed with that in mind. The reason for cushions underneath is to aid in stability and also ventilation. It is normal for the OF bracelet to stick above the surface of the skin ever so slightly. You'll have small indents on the skin, but that goes away quick after removing the watch. OF is the perfect bracelet solution for a sports watch imo.

As mentioned previously, just make sure whoever is the doing the sizing has experience with OF. It is very easy for the spring bars to pop out and ding the case because there isn't any spring bar windows on the back side of the bracelet. My case was dinged by the RSC, but they made me a new matching serial # case and all was well.

I hope this year Rolex will roll out the mini Glidelock for the Daytona OF. All of the other OF references have it (YMs, SkyD on OF) except the Daytonas. It makes a huge difference with on the fly adjustment and in the initial sizing phase. The OF comes in may different sizes, but it has a large gap between them so if one's wrist size fits in between that's where the mini Glidelock comes in handy! The EasyLink on the Daytona can only offer minor adjustment.

Thanks! I use wristclean too, so that’s good to know that it works fine on the OF straps.

[Tach24LMS]

Beautiful gold one there sir.

My plan is to get a Daytona in white gold with OF bracelet, as the one I’m after has it.
I’ll also buy the corresponding white gold bracelet to swap out. An easy way to make the watch different in varying circumstances.

[Robf52]

Originally Posted by oconnorandrew64

I live in a very humid climate
The OF is perfect for it - very comfortable on the wrist, no issues with sweat in such a humid climate, perfect sports watch. Can’t go wrong.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

x2.

[2305]

Originally Posted by Tach24LMS

Beautiful gold one there sir.

My plan is to get a Daytona in white gold with OF bracelet, as the one I’m after has it.
I’ll also buy the corresponding white gold bracelet to swap out. An easy way to make the watch different in varying circumstances.

This won’t work… you can’t remove the end links from an OF Daytona

[Big Tex Rolex]

I am hoping to get one, and when / if I do, I will buy an Alligator strap also, to dress up the Yellow Gold Daytona.

[AD337]

Originally Posted by djdm

Yes, the OF is very comfortable. However, it is bulkier than the oyster bracelet and will not hug the wrist as tightly due to the bellows.

I wear the OF fairly tight and yes the bellows leave marks on my wrist that disappear in an hour or so. This doesn’t bother me in the least.

I use the exact same OF sizing as I have on my 116500 based on the conversion between oyster links and OF sizes. 4 links = D, 5 links = E, etc. Even the clasp setting is the same. This conversion has been well explained by others here, so id recommend that you search for those posts. Let me know if you can’t find them and I’ll look myself. As a side note id also recommend not using the Rolex measuring tape. Use this conversion instead.

Absolutely, the OF Daytona is a perfect sports watch in my opinion. I have the WG model, which has a vintage 6265 look that I love.

Other thoughts:

1. The OF Daytona wears larger than the SS. My sense is that most people will find this to be a positive attribute. I don’t.

2. Be sure to alert the AD or RSC to be careful when changing the OF straps.

This is great advice well put, every point made

[Danny83]

Of is very comfortable once you have the correct size. If its very hot outside it will sweat a little.

[inadeje]

Originally Posted by Danny83

Of is very comfortable once you have the correct size. If its very hot outside it will sweat a little.

Thanks

[yOyOYoo]

I owned the WG Daytona on Oysterflex for about 3 years and recently made a trade for the SS Ceramic Daytona (plus some cash my way). Here are some random comments about my experiences with the OF strap:

The Oysterflex strap is extremely comfortable and durable. It does not scratch, does not accumulate dust, and is very easy to clean with soap/water or Wristclean spray.

I enjoyed how low key the OF Daytona looked. The rubber strap doesn’t really attract much attention.

I personally did not like the underside fins as they can make marks on your wrist - these indentations go away within 30 minutes to an hour after removing the watch. Also the fins elevate the OF strap and make it look a little bit too bulbous on my wrist. I read a comment by another OF wearer that they were considering cutting off the fins to improve the comfort.

The WG Daytona just felt a little bit too top heavy for me. I would have loved this model on a white gold bracelet instead. I think the OF strap would instead be perfect on a stainless steel model. It would feel more light and sporty.

While the OF strap makes the watch more sporty, the white gold can get scratched very easily in my opinion. I think of the OF Daytona as more of a dress watch than a sports watch.

Good luck on your search!

[JodyHighroller]

Originally Posted by yOyOYoo

I owned the WG Daytona on Oysterflex for about 3 years and recently made a trade for the SS Ceramic Daytona (plus some cash my way). Here are some random comments about my experiences with the OF strap:

The Oysterflex strap is extremely comfortable and durable. It does not scratch, does not accumulate dust, and is very easy to clean with soap/water or Wristclean spray.

I enjoyed how low key the OF Daytona looked. The rubber strap doesn’t really attract much attention.

I personally did not like the underside fins as they can make marks on your wrist - these indentations go away within 30 minutes to an hour after removing the watch. Also the fins elevate the OF strap and make it look a little bit too bulbous on my wrist. I read a comment by another OF wearer that they were considering cutting off the fins to improve the comfort.

The WG Daytona just felt a little bit too top heavy for me. I would have loved this model on a white gold bracelet instead. I think the OF strap would instead be perfect on a stainless steel model. It would feel more light and sporty.

While the OF strap makes the watch more sporty, the white gold can get scratched very easily in my opinion. I think of the OF Daytona as more of a dress watch than a sports watch.

Good luck on your search!

If they ever roll out the mini Glidelock for the OF Daytonas it’ll fix that top heavy concern you had.