The allure of a Rolex lies not only in its impeccable timekeeping and prestigious heritage but also in the intricate details of its design. One such detail, often overlooked yet crucial to the watch's functionality and aesthetic, is the lug hole. The notion of a Rolex, particularly a Submariner, existing without lug holes is largely a misconception, fuelled by online speculation and a misunderstanding of certain production nuances. This article aims to clarify the truth surrounding this myth, exploring the meaning and function of Rolex lug holes, examining specific models, and addressing related topics like band removal, serial numbers, and the characteristics of vintage Rolex cases.
Rolex Lug Holes Meaning; Rolex Lug Holes Explained
The lug holes on a Rolex watch are small, precisely drilled holes located on the lugs – the curved extensions of the watch case that connect to the bracelet or strap. These holes serve a critical purpose: they facilitate the secure attachment of the spring bars, which hold the bracelet or strap in place. The spring bars, small cylindrical pins with a spring mechanism at each end, fit snugly into these holes. This system ensures a firm and reliable connection, preventing accidental detachment of the bracelet, a crucial safety feature, especially for professional dive watches like the Submariner. Without these lug holes, the bracelet could not be securely mounted, rendering the watch impractical.
The precise positioning and size of the lug holes are crucial for a perfect fit and alignment of the bracelet. A slight deviation can lead to an uneven or wobbly fit, impacting both the aesthetics and the watch's overall integrity. Rolex's meticulous attention to detail ensures that the lug holes are perfectly aligned and sized to accommodate the specific spring bars designed for each model. This precision is part of what distinguishes a genuine Rolex from a counterfeit.
The Myth of the No-Lug-Hole Rolex Submariner
The persistent rumour of a Rolex Submariner without lug holes primarily revolves around a misunderstanding of certain production variations during a specific period. While Rolex has never produced a Submariner *without* lug holes, there was a period of approximately three years (roughly 2007-2010) where some Submariners featured a slightly different aesthetic characteristic: a branded rehaut. The rehaut is the inner bezel ring on which the minute markers are often printed. During this period, some Submariners without a date (the "no-date Submariner") showcased Rolex's branding engraved on this rehaut. This subtle variation has led to some confusion, with some interpreting the absence of visible lug holes in certain photographs or listings as indicative of a no-lug-hole model. However, this is incorrect. All Rolex Submariners, including those with the branded rehaut, possess the necessary lug holes for bracelet attachment. The confusion likely stems from the angle or quality of the photographs, obscuring the holes.
Rolex Explorer 36mm Lug to Lug; Rolex Explorer II Lug to Lug
The "lug to lug" measurement refers to the distance between the two lugs, measured horizontally across the watch case. This measurement is crucial for determining the overall size and fit of the watch on the wrist. The Rolex Explorer 36mm, a classic and elegant model, has a specific lug-to-lug measurement, while the Rolex Explorer II, a larger and more rugged watch designed for exploration, has a different, wider measurement. These dimensions vary slightly depending on the specific reference number and year of production but generally remain within a consistent range for each model. Knowing the lug-to-lug measurement helps individuals determine if a particular watch will comfortably fit their wrist size.
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