How Many Links Are In Each Bracelet Type On A Rolex

When it comes to Rolex watches, every detail is crafted with precision, including the bracelets. The number of links in a Rolex bracelet varies depending on the type of bracelet and the specific watch model. 

Whether you're interested in the classic Oyster bracelet, the elegant Jubilee bracelet, or the luxurious President bracelet, each one has its own unique link count. Understanding these differences helps you make an informed purchase and ensure a perfect fit and optimal wrist comfort. 

In this blog, we'll explore the link count for each type of Rolex bracelet that showcases what makes each design distinct.

Number of Links in a Rolex Bracelet

Rolex has several types of bracelets, each made in-house with precise craftsmanship. The number of links in a Rolex bracelet varies depending on the specific type and model.

Number of Links in Rolex Oyster Bracelet

The Rolex Oyster bracelet, introduced in the late 1930s, is one of Rolex's most popular designs. It features flat three-piece links and is commonly found on professional models like the Air-King, Submariner, GMT-Master,  Explorer, Sea-Dweller, and Milgauss. 

The bracelet can have different clasps, including the Oysterclasp, Oysterlock, and Crownclasp. Newer models often include the Easylink extension system, which provides an extra 5mm of adjustment for comfort. 

Most professional models come with 12 links and one end link, although Oyster bracelets can have anywhere from 11 to 15 links, with 12 being the most common.

Number of Links in Rolex Jubilee Bracelet

The Rolex Jubilee bracelet is known for its exceptional comfort and flexibility. Introduced in 1945 for the Rolex Datejust, it has a smooth, liquid-like feel thanks to its five-piece link design. This bracelet is available in precious metals and stainless steel that can be fitted with a Crownclasp or Oysterclasp.

The Jubilee bracelet has 22 links and 2 end links, which give it a comfortable and flexible fit. It also features the Easylink extension system, allowing wearers to add an extra 5mm for comfort.

Number of Links in Rolex President Bracelet

The Rolex President bracelet is made only from precious metals and is found on the Rolex Day-Date and some ladies' Datejust models. Introduced in 1956, it has a distinctive design with semi-circular three-piece links and always comes with a Crownclasp.

The President bracelet includes 22 links and 2 end links. Like other models, it also features the Easylink extension system, which adds an extra 5mm for a more comfortable fit.

How Many Links Are In Different Rolex Models

Most Rolex models have about 13 links in their bracelets, but this can range from 11 to 15 links. The Rolex Oyster bracelets typically have between 11 and 15 links, with 13 being the most common. On the other hand, Rolex Jubilee and President bracelets have 22 links, not counting the end links.

Below are different Rolex models and the number of links they feature.

1. Rolex Air-King

The Rolex Air-King is part of the Rolex Professional series and originally came with 12 links plus an end link. Newer models feature the Easylink extension system, which adds an extra 5mm for a more comfortable fit.

Introduced around 1945 by Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf, the Air-King was designed to pay tribute to British Royal Air Force pilots who wore Oyster watches during wartime. It’s a simple stainless steel watch with an Oyster case, a smooth bezel, and an easy-to-read time-only dial. 

The Air-King has several reference numbers, including 4499, 5500, 6552, 14000, 114200, 14000m, 116900, and the latest model, the 126900.

2. Rolex Cosmograph Daytona

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, part of the Rolex Professional line, features 12 links plus an end link on its bracelet. Newer models include the Easylink extension system.

The Daytona is a mechanical chronograph watch made for racing drivers. It has special functions to measure time and calculate average speed. Its name honors the racing scene in Daytona, Florida. The first Daytona was created in 1963, followed by updates in 1988 and 2000. 

The latest model includes a tachymetric scale for measuring speed and a sweep seconds hand for precise timing of 1/8 of a second.

3. Rolex Datejust

The Rolex Datejust was introduced in 1945 to highlight the company's 40th anniversary. The original models were made only in 18-karat yellow gold and featured a small bubble-back winder with a domed back. These early Datejust watches included Rolex's waterproof Oyster case, a fluted bezel, and the Jubilee bracelet.

Today, Rolex Datejust watches are available with both Oyster and Jubilee bracelets and in various materials, such as stainless steel, two-tone steel, yellow gold, and Everose gold. 

The Datejust with an Oyster bracelet has 12 links and 1 end link, while the model with a Jubilee bracelet has 22 links and 2 end links.

4. Rolex Lady-Datejust

The Rolex Lady-Datejust is a highly regarded model known for its elegance and versatility. It's the only Rolex currently available with all three bracelet options: Oyster, Jubilee, and President. The Lady-Datejust on an Oyster bracelet has 12 links and 1 end link, while the Jubilee and President bracelets have 22 links and 2 end links.

First introduced in 1957, the Lady-Datejust followed the success of the men's version. It included the same advanced features like the date function, automatic winding, and waterproof case, but with a more refined design that is 10mm smaller for a slimmer look.

5. Rolex Day-Date

The Rolex Day-Date is known for its classic "President" bracelet, which has 22 links and 2 end links. It is the only Rolex model for men that comes with this bracelet. The Day-Date was first introduced in 1956 and is considered one of Rolex's flagship watches. It is available in 18-karat white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum. 

Although the bracelet wasn't originally called the "President," Rolex began using this name in early 1966 advertisements, and it eventually became known as the President bracelet.

6. Rolex Explorer

The Rolex Explorer has 12 links plus one end link and is made of stainless steel. The Explorer I is also made of Rolesor (a mix of gold and steel).

True to their name, the Rolex Explorer I and II are built for tough conditions, having been tested in various challenging environments. These watches are designed for polar expeditions, mountain climbing, and caving. Features like the extra-hour hand help adventurers keep track of daylight hours while exploring caves. Some of the world's leading scientists and explorers have trusted the Explorer I and II.

The Rolex Explorer was first introduced in 1953. Since then, Rolex has added new technologies and improved its later models.

7. Rolex GMT-Master II

The Rolex GMT-Master II has two types of bracelets: the Oyster, which has 12 links plus 1 end link, and the Jubilee, which has 22 links plus 2 end links.

Introduced in 1954, the GMT-Master II comes in a classic 38 mm steel Oyster case. This case was the first waterproof design for wristwatches, using a patented system to seal the bezel, case back, and winding crown. Rolex created the Oyster case in 1926, which was a major breakthrough in watchmaking. 

The GMT-Master II was among Rolex’s first sports watches and featured innovative elements like the date magnifying bubble (Cyclops) and the ability to display two time zones.

8. Rolex Milgauss

The Rolex Milgauss has 12 links and 1 end link. First introduced in 1956, it is known for its high resistance to magnetism. The Milgauss can handle magnetic fields up to 1,000 gauss, a big improvement over regular watches that could only resist up to 50 gauss.

This anti-magnetic technology was developed in response to the growing use of technology and exposure to magnetic fields in the 1950s. These magnetic fields often damaged regular watches. The Milgauss features a Faraday cage, a grounded metal shield that protects the watch from electromagnetic interference. 

In 1956, Rolex also partnered with the CERN particle physics laboratory to test and improve the watch’s anti-magnetic properties.

9. Rolex Oyster Perpetual 

A Rolex Oyster bracelet typically has 12 links plus 1 end link. The original Oyster watch was launched in 1926 as the first waterproof watch. It gained fame when Mercedes Gleitze wore it while swimming across the English Channel.

In 1931, Rolex developed a self-winding mechanism and added the word “Perpetual” to the name because the watch stayed wound automatically. The Oyster Perpetual name came into use in 1945 when Rolex combined the sturdy Oyster case with this self-winding feature. 

Today, many Rolex models carry the Oyster Perpetual name, highlighting their waterproof Oyster case and automatic winding movement.

10. Rolex Sea-Dweller

The Rolex Sea-Dweller has 12 links plus an additional Fliplock extension link, which can extend the bracelet by 26 mm. It includes a helium release valve and an Oysterlock Clasp with a Rolex Glidelock Fine-Adjustment System, allowing adjustments in 2 mm increments up to 20 mm to fit over a diving suit. The Sea-Dweller is waterproof up to 4,000 feet.

Launched in 1971, the Sea-Dweller was created by Swiss engineers and watchmakers aiming to push the limits of underwater and diving technology.

11. Rolex Sky-Dweller

The Rolex Sky-Dweller has two bracelet options: the Oyster with 12 links plus 1 end link and the Jubilee with 22 links plus 2 end links.

Introduced in 2012, the Sky-Dweller is Rolex's most recent new release. It represents the brand's move towards watches with more features and complications, similar to what started with the Yacht-Master. 

Designed for frequent travelers, the elegant Sky-Dweller displays two time zones simultaneously and includes an annual calendar.

12. Rolex Submariner

The Rolex Submariner typically has 12 links plus one end link, with some models varying between 11 and 15 links. Introduced in 1953, it was the first diving watch that was water-resistant to 100 meters. The Submariner features a rotating 60-minute bezel for divers to track their underwater time and a luminous dial for readability in low-light conditions.

Initially made of stainless steel with a black bezel and dial, the Submariner's design has remained consistent while incorporating improvements over the years. Rolex has expanded the line to include various materials and colors, maintaining its reputation as a top diving watch.

13. Rolex Yacht-Master

The Rolex Yacht-Master typically comes with 12 links plus one end link, but the number of links can vary from 11 to 15. Introduced in 1992 as a luxury sports watch, the Yacht-Master originally featured 18-karat yellow gold. In 1994, Rolex released a lady's model and a mid-size model at 35 mm, marking the first time smaller sizes were available for their professional series watches.

In 1996, Rolex introduced two-tone versions (stainless steel and 18-karat yellow gold) for the ladies and mid-size lines. By 1997, the Yacht-Master also became available in a combination of stainless steel and platinum, featuring a platinum bezel and dial with a stainless steel case, bracelet, and crown.

Final Thoughts On How Many Links Are In Each Bracelet Type On A Rolex 

Understanding the number of links in a Rolex bracelet can help you better appreciate the craftsmanship involved in these iconic timepieces. Whether it's the robust Oyster, the elegant Jubilee, or the luxurious President, each bracelet is meticulously designed to offer both style and comfort.

If you're considering buying a Rolex or need assistance with your current watch, Music City Timepieces can help. We offer a wide selection of luxury watches and expert services to keep your Rolex in top condition.

For more information or assistance, contact us today!