A Comprehensive Guide to Every Type of Rolex Bracelet Ever Made

Most of us know Rolex as one of the most well-established luxury brands in the world. This prestigious reputation is a reflection of how well it has mastered the art of watchmaking. Part of this is due to Rolex’s penchant for constant research and innovation. As a result, it also means that the brand has reached a point in which it has the ability to develop specialized, highly-advanced components for the timepieces it creates — making its watches stronger, more durable, and more precise.

One perfect example of this innovation is the variety of signature straps Rolex has invented over the years, which also happens to be our main topic for today. Whether in terms of style or durability, Rolex has consistently pushed the boundaries with its bracelet inventions. Without further ado, let us take a detailed look at every type of Rolex bracelet ever made. 

Every Type of Rolex Bracelet Ever Made: A Walkthrough

Rolex currently offers 6 different bracelets and straps in their catalog, namely: the Oyster, the President, the Oysterflex, the Pearlmaster, the Jubilee, and a high-quality leather band. Let’s take an in-depth look at each Rolex bracelet. For those who want a first-hand experience of these bands, we have also included some models equipped with these respective bracelets as examples too.  

The Oyster 

The Oyster is arguably one of the most popular bracelets in the watchmaking world. It was first utilized by Rolex back in the 1930s and has become a staple for the Swiss brand since then. This is a flat, three-piece link band mainly used in Rolex’s Professional models, such as the Explorer. That said, the Oyster bracelet can also be found in the selection of Rolex Classic watches, with models like the Datejust.

While there are many reasons as to why the Rolex Oyster bracelet is the go-to choice of many watch patrons, its versatility is what stands out the most. This is the only Rolex bracelet that can be paired with all of the brand’s different clasps, which is one of the most important components of a Rolex watch. In addition, the Oyster adds a sporty and classic aesthetic to the watch, allowing for a quintessential look that simply transcends time. 

Below are some models with this iconic Rolex bracelet for those who like a refined and athletic vibe: 

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Ref. 126000

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Ref. 126000 is a classic yet fun model that is great for everyday use. More than that, it is the perfect showcase of versatility, as it has an overall laid-back vibe despite the sporty strap it comes with. Its Rolex Oyster bracelet is paired with a 36mm Oystersteel case and a domed bezel. Meanwhile, the striking and quirky bright yellow dial features stick hands and hour markers equipped with an excellent Chromalight display. This watch is powered by a COSC-certified automatic caliber 3230, which boasts an impressive power reserve of 70 hours.

This Oyster Perpetual piece retailing at $13,799 USD oozes an effortlessly cool style that combines street chic with sporty appeal.

Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 126613LB

The Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 126613LB, on the other hand, is definitely a more sporty-looking and classy watch through and through. It features a yellow Rolesor exterior, which means that it is a two-tone model made primarily of Oystersteel and yellow gold. It comes in a 41mm case with a rotating blue Carachrom bezel and a luxurious three-link Oyster bracelet. In keeping with the watch’s Rolesor theme, this bracelet has Oystersteel outer links and yellow gold central links.

This Submariner piece is also equipped with a bold and handsome blue dial, with large Mercedes hands, hour markers in various shapes, and a magnified date window. Underneath the gorgeous watch face, you can find a self-winding caliber 3235 with a COSC certification and a 70-hour power reserve.

Priced at approximately $21,209 USD, this two-toned watch is a must-have piece for all luxury sports watch collectors out there.

The President 

The next Rolex bracelet on our list is the President bracelet. This Rolex strap was first introduced back in 1956, on an Oyster Perpetual Day-Date model. Although it was not initially known as such, the name stuck after an advertisement dubbed it “The President’s Watch” based on Former US President Lyndon Johnson’s own Rolex Day-Date piece. The President bracelet has a three-piece design that features shorter, semi-circular links, giving it a well-proportioned overall look. It has a more rounded exterior compared to the Oyster bracelet and exudes a more elegant, dressy air as a result.

One interesting thing about this Rolex bracelet is that, to this day, it is only used with the Rolex Day-Date and some Lady Datejust watches. In addition, the President bracelet is exclusively made of precious metals such as gold and platinum and is only ever paired with the brand’s concealed Crownclasp. 

If you prefer a classy and sophisticated aesthetic, check out the following models that come with this elite Rolex bracelet: 

Rolex Day-Date 40 Ref. 228348RBR

The Rolex Day-Date 40 Ref. 228348RBR is the pinnacle of elegance and luxury. Everything about it, from the diamond-set bezel to the gold President bracelet, screams lavish and elaborate. It is presented in a 40mm yellow gold Oyster case along with a three-link President strap made of the same material. The stark black dial features a sunray finish with luminous hands and precious stones for hour markers, an elongated day display, and a magnified date window. These functions are all driven by a COSC-certified self-winding caliber 3255 with a 70-hour power reserve. 

If you want a strikingly fancy watch equipped with the iconic Rolex President bracelet, you can get this piece for around $61,999 USD.

Rolex Day-Date 36 Ref. 128235

Next up, we have the Rolex Day-Date 36 Ref. 128235. This option is just as luxurious, but a little more subtle than the previously-mentioned watch. While this model is adorned with more diamonds all encrusted on the central links of its President bracelet, its warm rose gold hue makes it look more delicate and subdued.

This Day-Date watch comes in a 36mm Everose gold case along with a diamond-set rose gold President bracelet. The brown ombré sunburst dial features luminescent hands, diamond hour markers, a day display, and a date window magnified by a Cyclops lens. This is paired with an elegant fluted bezel that adds more dimension to this watch. Just like the Ref. 228348RBR, this model is equipped with the same COSC-certified caliber 3255. 

With a price tag of around $52,000 USD, this serves as a more delicate and feminine President bracelet watch option. 

The Pearlmaster 

Moving on, we have the Rolex Pearlmaster, which was introduced in 1992 along with its namesake range. This Rolex bracelet features rounded, five-piece links that are embedded with diamonds, giving it a sophisticated and intricate design. At present, this Rolex bracelet can mainly be found on Pearlmaster watches, as well as some Day-Date and Datejust models that have gem-set exteriors. In addition, just like the President bracelet, this Rolex strap is only ever paired with the brand’s ever-so-elegant Crownclasp. 

Since the original Pearlmaster collection is all about elegance and refinement, this can clearly be seen in the Pearlmaster bracelet as well. Just a glance at its complex details will tell you that it is made with the highest form of craftsmanship and technology Rolex has at its disposal. 

With that said, here is a closer look at one model that sports this unique and fancy Rolex bracelet:

Rolex Pearlmaster 34 Ref. 81409RBR

The Rolex Pearlmaster 34 Ref. 81409RBR is as extravagant as you can get with Rolex. This model comes in a slender 34mm case paired with a Pearlmaster bracelet, both of which are made of white gold and adorned with diamonds all over. The dial features a diamond-pave design with silver Roman numerals and a magnified date window. It also has a three-hand system which is driven by an automatic caliber 2236 with a 55-hour power reserve. 

If you are looking for a lavish and statement-making watch with the Pearlmaster bracelet, you can get your hands on this piece for approximately $170,000 USD.

The Jubilee

This next Rolex bracelet is known as the Jubilee. It was first launched in 1945 on the Oyster Perpetual Datejust. The Jubilee bracelet is a rather distinct Rolex band that features a rounded design with five-piece links. The outer links of this Rolex bracelet are larger in size, while the central links are smaller. The Jubilee bracelet can be paired with either the Crownclasp or the Oysterclasp. One interesting thing about it is that some versions of the Jubilee bracelet come with an Easylink extension, which makes it easily adjustable, so it can fit securely around any wrist. 

The Jubilee bracelet is a fan-favorite among many Rolex patrons because of its robustness, versatility, and practicality. In fact, it is known for being the most comfortable Rolex bracelet compared to the brand’s other three metal bands. It is also regarded as the perfect in-between since it is a mix of elegant and slightly sporty aesthetics. 

If you enjoy a classy and flexible look, check out some models with this Rolex bracelet:

Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126710BLNR

The Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126710BLNR, also dubbed the Batgirl, is one of the most well-known models in Rolex’s portfolio. It serves as a dressier alternative to the popular Batman watch. This timepiece is presented in a 40mm Oystersteel case paired with a five-link Jubilee bracelet. It also features a sporty two-tone Cerachrom bezel in black and blue, which is what inspired its nickname. Meanwhile, the black dial consists of luminous Mercedes hands, hour markers in various shapes, and a magnified date window. This GMT-Master II watch is equipped with a self-winding 3285 caliber that boasts a 70-hour power reserve. 

If you want a highly sought-after watch with the Jubilee band, check this piece out for around $21,329 USD.

Rolex Datejust Ref. 126334 

The GMT-Master Datejust Ref. 126334, on the other hand, is a completely different take on the Jubilee bracelet. It is a more elegant and overtly luxurious timepiece that is perfect for any formal affair. This model is presented in a two-tone Rolesor exterior. Its 41mm case and Jubilee bracelet are both made of a mix of Oystersteel and white gold. The sunburst slate dial consists of exquisite diamond-set hour markers, slim hands, and a magnified date window at 3 o’clock. This watch’s three-hand system and date function are all powered by a COSC-certified caliber 3235 with a power reserve of 70 hours.

If you’re willing to shell out $14,800 USD, you should definitely consider adding this Datejust watch with a Jubilee bracelet to your collection. 

The Oysterflex

The Oysterflex, launched in 2015 on the Yacht-Master, is the only Rolex bracelet that is not just primarily made of metal. Instead, it is a highly durable band that uses a combination of superelastic metal blades and elastomer. The Oysterflex strap can typically be found in Rolex’s Professional watches, such as the Cosmograph Daytona and Yacht-Master, but also in its Sky-Dweller collection. 

In terms of design, this black band definitely has a sporty and durable aesthetic down pat. It is also one of the most comfortable Rolex bracelet options despite the robustness brought about by the metal blade inside. Indeed, the Oysterflex bracelet is the perfect reflection of Rolex’s craftsmanship and innovation. 

Here is a model that is equipped with this well-built, modern Rolex bracelet: 

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116519LN

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116519LN is a robust and powerfully built timepiece. Despite its ruggedness, it is still quite comfortable thanks to its ergonomic Oysterflex strap. This Cosmograph Daytona watch comes in a 40mm white gold case along with the black Oysterflex bracelet. The dial features a black chronograph display along with luminescent hands and hour markers. This multi-functional watch is also powered by an automatic caliber 4130 with a 72-hour power reserve. 

For around $56,999 USD, you can get this sporty, tough-looking watch.

Leather Strap

While Rolex is popular for its impressive selection of bracelets, true watch enthusiasts know that they also offer models with leather straps. In fact, Rolex has been using leather bands since before the launch of any of its innovative bracelets. This means the first few Rolex watches were actually all exclusively paired with leather straps. At present, the main collection that features this type of band is the Rolex Cellini which is a classic range that boasts timeless elegance. 

If you like traditional, vintage-inspired timepieces, take a look at this particular model with a quintessential leather strap: 

Rolex Cellini Ref. 50519 

The Rolex Cellini Ref. 50519 is definitely the most classic and delicate of all the models mentioned in this article. It gives off a very strong traditional vibe mixed with modern-day design elements. This timepiece comes in a 39mm white gold case paired with an alligator leather strap in black. The blue guilloche dial consists of dauphine hands, luminous hour markers, and a unique date sub-counter at 3 o’clock. Lastly, this watch is powered by an automatic caliber 3165 with a 48-hour power reserve.

If you prefer quintessential timepieces, you can check this one out for around $17,900 USD.

Final Thoughts 

Through its excellent selection of bracelets, Rolex has proven time and time again that there is a very good reason why it is one of the most well-established names in the watchmaking industry. Its bracelet inventions are a clear reflection of the high-level craftsmanship and innovation it constantly upholds.

We hope that, through this guide, you have obtained a better understanding of the different Rolex bracelets out there. This way, you can select a Rolex watch with a bracelet that truly fits your personality and needs.

Photo credits: WatchShopping and Rolex site

Featured image by s.yume on Flickr

If you want to know more about Rolex watches, check out our article on the Rolex Kermit.