Helvetus make you "rethink" your Rolex

An easy-to-get, different look 

Us enthusiasts know that one of the easiest ways to transform our watches is simply by changing its straps. Also, it has been proven, by Rolex and Oysterflex, for instance, that rubber can feel both sporty yet premium.

That’s how I discovered Helvetus. They produce aftermarket rubber straps designed to fit Rolex sports models, offering a similar aesthetic to Oysterflex but at an accessible price.

Expectations should be realistic: You won’t get the same engineering or internal structure, but considering Helvetus' cost roughly one sixth or one seventh of the price of an Oysterflex strap, they provide an interesting value proposition.

Installation & clasp options

They come with their own clasp, allowing you to replace the entire bracelet and run the watch fully on rubber.

However, they are also compatible with the original Rolex clasp, which lets you retain features like the Glidelock adjustment system. In my experience, this is actually the best setup: The rubber itself works well, but the stock clasp is probably the weakest point. It does the job, but it lacks the refinement and solidity of the original Rolex hardware. If possible, I would recommend using the Helvetus rubber together with the Rolex clasp.

Real-world test: Daytona steel & Submariner Starbucks

I tested the straps on a Rolex Daytona 116500LN with black dial and I have to say that the black strap on the Daytona works particularly well because it visually connects with the ceramic bezel, giving the watch a solid feel. It very much looks like its big brother (white gold version)

I tested a white strap on a Starbucks Submariner and it also creates a completely different vibe. Paired with the green bezel, it turns the watch into a much more relaxed, summery piece. This is a reminder of how dramatically a strap can change the personality of a watch.

Pros and cons 

Comfort is where these straps shine and bang for buck these strap work especially well during warmer months, making the watch lighter and easier to wear compared to full steel bracelets.

That said, there are a couple of downsides IMO:

• First, the clasp included by Helvetus feels basic, which is why using the Rolex clasp is the better option when possible
• The black rubber tends to attract dust quite easily. This is something that doesn’t seem to happen as much with the original Oysterflex, which likely benefits from a different surface treatment.

Final thoughts

Helvetus straps shouldn’t be seen as a replacement for Oysterflex, but rather as an affordable way to experiment with the look of your watch. They sit on the more accessible end of the spectrum while still delivering a solid result, very much like alternatives (RubberB or Wristbuddies). At the same time they’re comfortable, visually effective, and really change the personality of the watch.

And if you pair the Helvetus rubber with an original Rolex clasp, you can get surprisingly close to the Oysterflex experience for a fraction of the price.