Mar 19, 2022

Does Rolex Make Rubber Straps?

by Ripley Sellers

Rubber straps are easily one of the most comfortable and practical ways of attaching a watch to your wrist, but does Rolex make rubber straps? As a material, rubber is lightweight, flexible, and completely waterproof, making it ideally suited for watch straps. Additionally, given that Rolex is the world’s most famous luxury timepiece manufacturer and is known for creating highly water-resistant watches, it would only seem natural for Rolex to produce rubber watch straps. However, a quick look at the brand’s catalog will reveal that the vast majority of its current-production models are all fitted with metal bracelets. So, does Rolex actually make rubber straps?

Shown Above: Curved End Rubber Strap for Rolex GMT-Master II Ceramic

Does Rolex Make Rubber Watch Straps?

The simple answer to the question of whether or not Rolex makes rubber straps is yes; however, things aren’t quite that straightforward. Since 2015, Rolex has produced a rubber strap called the Oysterflex bracelet, which is exclusively available for solid 18k gold editions of the Yacht-Master, Daytona, and Sky-Dweller. While most people would consider the Oysterflex to be a rubber strap, Rolex actually classifies it as a bracelet since it features a flexible metal core and uses a large fold-over clasp, just like the rest of the brand’s metal bracelet designs.

Additionally, Rolex’s Oysterflex bracelet is only available with a fold-over style deployant clasp, so there is no option for a version with a traditional tang-style buckle (like what you will find on most rubber watch straps). Furthermore, black is currently the only color offered for the Oysterflex, and unlike Rolex’s metal bracelets that have end-links to match the shape of the lugs and case, the ends of the Oysterflex stop right at the spring-bars, leaving gaps between the edges of the case and the strap. The various solid gold Daytona and Sky-Dweller models that have Oysterflex bracelets all include lug hoods that extend from their cases to fill these spaces, but if you were to put an Oysterflex on any other Rolex model, it would lack the same integrated appearance.

Shown Above: Curved End Rubber Strap for Rolex Explorer II (Pre-2011)

Buying Rolex Rubber Straps

Even though Rolex makes rubber straps, the brand prohibits anyone from purchasing one for their watch unless they already own one of the solid gold models that is supposed to be fitted with one. Therefore, despite the fact that Rolex makes an Oysterflex for the Daytona, you are not able to buy one for your stainless steel model, nor will Rolex even let you purchase an Oysterflex for your solid gold Daytona, unless it is one of the three specific references that is already supposed to have one.

On top of that, it’s also important to note that replacement Oysterflex bracelets don’t include their solid 18 karat gold clasps (those are sold separately and cost thousands of dollars). This means that even if you do manage to source an Oysterflex on the open market (and are lucky enough to be able to find one in the correct size), you will still need to use the clasp from your existing Rolex bracelet, and there is a strong possibility that it will not fit properly because the ends of the Oysterflex were never intended to be attached to your style of Rolex clasp.

Shown Above: Curved End Rubber Strap for Rolex Submariner Ceramic

Getting a Rubber Strap for Your Rolex

Rubber straps and Rolex watches are a natural and perfect pairing, yet options for this highly practical configuration are few and far between when it comes to the brand’s current catalog. Although Rolex does make a rubber strap in the form of the Oysterflex bracelet, it is often not worth the hassle or expense to attach an Oysterflex to a watch that didn’t already have one. Between the difficulties trying to purchase one directly from Rolex and the high possibility that it won’t fit your watch properly, it’s often best to invest in a high-quality aftermarket rubber strap (like the ones we sell), which will offer a superior fit for your watch and also significantly expand your options when it comes to size, style, and color.

All of our rubber straps are specifically designed for your exact Rolex model and unlike the Oysterflex, they offer a completely integrated appearance with its lugs and case. In addition to being available in a wide variety of different colors to match the dial or bezel of your favorite watch, our rubber straps are also offered with either traditional tang-style buckles or in a deployant-style version that is designed to work with your existing Rolex clasp and its included extension system. Just because Rolex doesn’t make a rubber strap for your watch doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy this highly practical style, and opting for a high-quality aftermarket alternative allows you to find one that is a perfect fit for both your watch and your individual tastes and preferences.

Want a rubber strap on your Rolex watch? Shop our full collection right here.