Period correct bracelet?

[tkc324]

I am in the market for a vintage jubilee bracelet. I have started to noticed that some vintage Rolex come with much later bracelets, which make sense as some bracelet gets destroyed and require replacements.

I have a 1978 datejust that is in need of a bracelet. Was wondering if I should track down a bracelet as close to 1978 as possible or just get one that is in decent shape. I don't care about re-sell value (this is my grandfather's watch, so never selling) but its more about trying to get everything as close to the same year as possible. What does experts think?

[swish77]

Getting a period correct bracelet with matching date code is always cool, so yes, good idea. But it shouldn't be at the expense of safety and comfort, so it needs to be in good condition.

In other words, I'd rather wear a bracelet in good shape that's later, than a matching-year bracelet that's got a ton of stretch and might fall apart while wearing it.

[L.K Johnson]

Originally Posted by swish77

Getting a period correct bracelet with matching date code is always cool, so yes, good idea. But it shouldn't be at the expense of safety and comfort, so it needs to be in good condition.

In other words, I'd rather wear a bracelet in good shape that's later, than a matching-year bracelet that's got a ton of stretch and might fall apart while wearing it.

I agree a 100%!

[harry in montreal]

You want a 62510h with 555s. Very comfy. Post pics for authenticity on here because there are lots of fake bands and endlinks. The 6251h is ok, but flimsy in feel

[Tools]

Rolex made the Jubilee bracelet for many years, including years after the date of your watch.

Except for the date stamp, they are the same. The only thing that that stamp gives you is a point of conversation

It is certainly up to the individual, but condition and lasting into the future might be more of a concern than if your date-codes match.

Matching date-codes does not make your watch original, that ship has already sailed.

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by Tools

Except for the date stamp, they are the same. The only thing that that stamp gives you is a point of conversation

It is certainly up to the individual, but condition and lasting into the future might be more of a concern than if your date-codes match.

Matching date-codes does not make your watch original, that ship has already sailed.

Agree. And it's always a risk wearing an old bracelet.

With it being such a precious heirloom piece, I'd get a new Jubilee from Rolex for absolute security and peace of mind. Not period correct, but a correct and perfectly acceptable replacement.

Good luck with it!

[Dan S]

As you can tell from the comments above, it's all personal taste.

[tkc324]

Great input everyone. I am leaning just getting a good bracelet as of right now. Will see how the hunt goes. thanks everyone

[Tools]

Originally Posted by tkc324

Great input everyone. I am leaning just getting a good bracelet as of right now. Will see how the hunt goes. thanks everyone

Here is a secret...

A brand new Jubilee 62510 is identical today as one made years ago, and probably cheaper than the Internet prices for older ones.

If you have/procure a clasp with a date-code that you want, you can bolt it in and absolutely nobody could tell - but you have a new bracelet.

Alternatively, you could find a worn bracelet and send it to a place like Rolliworks for a rebuild.