In this video, we will discuss how to use the Glidelock clasp; an innovative dive watch feature that allows the wearer to adjust the length of the bracelet up to 20mm without the use of tools. Click here to shop our selection of pre-owned Rolex watches: [ Ссылка ]
The Rolex Glidelock is just one of many innovative clasps offered by Rolex. To learn more, visit our Ultimate Guide to Rolex Clasps and Buckles: [ Ссылка ]
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Rolex is constantly innovating. One of their biggest contributions to watchmaking was the Rolex Oyster case in 1926. It was the first waterproof watch and laid the foundation for the flourishing dive watch industry as we know it today.
The Glidelock clasp is just one of many revolutionary designs to come from Rolex HQ. It debuted with the Deepsea in 2008 and was developed for diving. The idea is that the wearer can adjust the bracelet to fit over their wetsuit without hassling with tools. Instead, they can adjust the clasp on-the-fly, which we will cover in detail in this video.
The Rolex Glidelock clasp has other applications outside of the world of professional diving. The clasp can be adjusted in 2mm increments, making it ideal for everyday wear as well. One’s wrist might fluctuate throughout the day due to temperature variations or humidity. The Glidelock clasp easily accommodates those fluctuations to achieve the perfect fit all day.
As with everything Rolex makes, the Glidelock clasp is an improvement, replacing the Oysterlock clasp. The Oysterlock is still a fixture of the professional series, appearing on the GMT Master II and Yacht-Master models. However, the dive watch collection now solely uses the Glidelock clasp.
The Oysterlock clasp features a locking mechanism that keeps the clasp securely closed to prevent it from accidentally popping open while in the water. The Glidelock clasp features the same locking mechanism. However, the Oysterlock can only be adjusted up to 5mm via the Easylink extension system, whereas the Glidelock can expand up to 20mm.
The 6-digit Submariner made its debut in 2010. In addition to receiving a new case and bracelet design, larger Maxi dial, and Cerachrom bezel insert, it also gained the Glidelock clasp. While its design is slightly different from the clasp on the Deepsea, its primary function of tool-free adjustment remains the same.
For the sake of this video, it’s also important to note that the Submariner and Sea-Dweller utilize the 2010 clasp, and the Deepsea features the original 2008 clasp.
The Glidelock clasp on the Deepsea features a center hinged section with notches located on the underside surface. The Glidelock clasp found on the Submariner and Sea-Dweller includes a single piece outer clasp that features the notches directly on its underside.
How to use the Deepsea Glidelock clasp:
Step 1: Lift the hinged center section of the clasp. This step will engage the inner portion of the clasp and allow you to adjust it forwards or backward inside the outer clasp. There will be a notch that fits into the grooves on the underside of the hinged section.
Step 2: Adjust the clasp to your desired length.
Step 3: Press down the hinged center section to lock the clasp into place. Your bracelet has now been adjusted and is ready to wear.
How to use the Submariner and Sea-Dweller Glidelock clasp: The process is like the Deepsea Glidelock clasp. Only there is no center hinged section. Instead, the latching mechanism is built directly into the inner part of the clasp that slides forwards and backward inside the outer clasp.
Step 1: Unlock the mechanism by pulling down on the side of the bracelet where it meets the clasp. There will be a “click” as the inner part of the clasp hinges downward. This step releases the latch from the notches on the inside of the fold-over clasp.
Step 2: Now that the clasp is unlatched, slide the inner part of the clasp forwards or backward to adjust the length of the bracelet.
Step 3: Once the bracelet is adjusted to the desired length, press upwards on the side of the bracelet where it meets the clasp, this step will latch it back into place. Your bracelet is now ready to wear.
The Glidelock clasp is the perfect upgrade for the dive watch series. Not only does it offer the security of the Oysterlock, but it also expands more than any other clasp in the brand’s portfolio. Collectors of all professions and lifestyles admire its ingenious design, even if they aren’t using it for underwater adventuring.
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