Rolex Jubilee vs Oyster Bracelet (2021): Which Iconic Rolex Bracelet Is Better?

In a company as exemplary as Rolex, even the watch bracelets define luxury. For instance, the Oyster Bracelet, which is the luxury watch manufacturer’s original bracelet design, has become emblematic of the brand. Indeed, it is as quintessentially Rolex as is the company’s iconic crown.

The Rolex Jubilee Bracelet, on the other hand, shares in the Oyster’s stature. Today, the bracelet’s instantly recognizable five-piece link has become an equally defining trait of a Rolex watch even though it’s available only to a few models.

With the debate surrounding their iconic status, which Rolex bracelet is better?

Rolex Jubilee vs Oyster Bracelet Comparison Chart

History

Rolex’s Oyster Bracelet was the original in-house design from the brand. In contrast, the Jubilee Bracelet was launched to commemorate the company’s 40th anniversary.

First introduced in the late 1930s, the Oyster Bracelet has become a mainstay in Rolex’s expansive catalogue. Today, it fits all the watches from the Professional collection as well as models from the Classic series like the Datejust, Sky-Dweller, and Day-Date. The bracelet’s three-link design has largely remained the same over the years. Moreover, it has been manufactured in almost every metal combination imaginable including steel, rose, white gold, and yellow gold among others.

The Jubilee Bracelet, on the other hand, was released in 1945. As its name suggests, the bracelet was designed for the launch of the Oyster Perpetual Datejust in commemoration of Rolex’s 40th anniversary. Although only offered for the Datejust and GMT-Master II watch models, the Jubilee is produced in every type of material, except white gold and platinum.

Check out more Rolex comparisons here.

Design

The Rolex Jubilee’s five-piece link design makes it a dressier alternative to the simpler, three-piece link of the Oyster bracelet.

The most notable difference between the Jubilee and the Oyster bracelets is in their link design. The Jubilee Bracelet, for instance, features a five-piece, semi-circular link—three interior, two interior—and is fitted with either a Crownclasp or Oysterclasp.

In contrast, the original Oyster Bracelet is a flat, three-piece link that is both elegant and versatile. As such, it’s a default option on many Rolex watches. Moreover, the Oyster is compatible with all types of Rolex clasps, including the Oysterlock.

From a design standpoint, the Jubilee is the dressier bracelet. The three-interior links evoke an ornateness typical of jewelry. In addition, the discreet attachment system allows the bracelet to look seamlessly connected to the watch case. On the other hand, the Oyster bracelet is chunkier and carries a bit more weight. While not as intricate as the Jubilee, it sports a similarly refined design that speaks of excellent craftsmanship.

Both bracelets include two tone designs, and are compatible with the Rolex Easylink 5mm extension. However, if you want something showier, then the Jubilee’s aesthetic will definitely be more appealing. And although the Oyster looks more masculine on the wrist, a Jubilee bracelet on sportier models like the GMT-Master is equally dashing.

Comfort and Durability

The Jubilee bracelet follows the shape of your wrist, making it more comfortable. But this makes it less durable compared to the Oyster.

The Jubilee Bracelet is arguably more comfortable compared to the Oyster, thanks to its five-piece link design. In addition, the links are slightly separated, which allows the bracelet to follow the shape of your wrist better. The Oyster’s larger links, on the other hand, lends a heft to it that may be better suited for those with larger wrists.

Rolex has built these bracelets to endure time’s wear and tear. Nonetheless, most people are divided over which is better at taking in the little bumps and bruises along the way. While some argue that the Jubilee is better at hiding scratches, there are those who vouch these imperfections are less noticeable on the plainer design of the Oyster.

In terms of durability, however, the Oyster will have the advantage. The links are rock solid and robust, as expected of a bracelet typically placed on sports watches. Meanwhile, because the Jubilee bracelet stretches, it tends to get loose over the years, which may cause it to lose its structure.

Verdict

If you want something a little flashier, then the Jubilee Bracelet should be right up your alley. But if you want something sportier and more robust, you can’t go wrong with a classic like Oyster.

A Rolex’s timeless appeal comes from the excellent craftsmanship behind it. Certainly, the bracelets that keep them fastened on your wrists are no exception. In this vein, the Jubilee and Oyster Bracelets are as much of a statement as the actual Rolex watches themselves.

However, the Jubilee comes across as more stylish and complex in design compared to the Oyster. The bracelet has great size lugs, and the five-piece link in a two tone finish is a guaranteed scene stealer. And paired with a sportier watch like the GMT-Master II, you get a peerless timepiece that’s both functional and fashionable.

Despite its hefty price tag, the Oyster is definitely a more modest option. And although the three-piece link looks plain, it’s definitely more durable in the long run. If you have larger wrists, or feel that the Jubilee draws too much attention, then a classic like Oyster should be an easy choice.

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