Replacing explorer 1 bracelet or strap

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I have a 2008 explorer 1 (Ref.114270) which came fitted with a bracelet and the case without the external holes for easy removal.
When I bought the watch the Rolex ad told me it wasn't possible to fit a leather strap to the modern version.
Is this true ?
If not has anyone tried it with a modern explorer ?
If you did were there any problems ?
Though google shows plenty of the older versions with a strap fitted I can't find any pictures of a modern version on strap.
 
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I can't be much help, I'm afraid other than to observe that our local Rolex dealer told me that fitting a leather strap to my Daytona was not possible.
As I have sold it now without exploring the possibilities I cannot say if this was *ull*hit although I strongly feel it probably was.
 
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Thanks anyway bez. I wonder if Rolex missed a trick by not offering the strap option on the later watches. They are seen often on the ref. 1610 etc.
 
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Of course you can. Any generic strap in the right size (I would guess 20mm) will fit. It does not matter if you have lugholes hidden or thru the case. As you have hidden holes the spring bars you already have will do just fine to the strap.
Have a look here (one can do it with a little more controle and finesse than the guy in the film but you get the picture):

If you are very scared of scratches you just put some scotch tape on the lugs - both sides.
Edited:
 
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I have a 2008 explorer 1 (Ref.114270) which came fitted with a bracelet and the case without the external holes for easy removal.
When I bought the watch the Rolex ad told me it wasn't possible to fit a leather strap to the modern version.
Is this true ?
If not has anyone tried it with a modern explorer ?
If you did were there any problems ?
Though google shows plenty of the older versions with a strap fitted I can't find any pictures of a modern version on strap.

Check out this option... http://www.everestbands.com/collect...-alligator-strap-system-for-rolex-explorer-ii
 
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It is possible, you have to take out the springbars from the back. I find that often that straps end up rubbing against the case due to the SEL placement so I keep mine on the bracelet. It does look good though.

7473929754_1fd0ebf42d_c.jpg
 
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They do rub, that's true. Same with the Daytona. I think you need curved pins and straps for them not to. Yiu cab find those too though.
 
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Rolex advise customers NOT to fit leather straps to their bracelet watches. Doing so can effect the Chronometer accuracy and will null and void your guarantee. The watch id manufactured to be worn with it's bracelet
 
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Rolex advise customers NOT to fit leather straps to their bracelet watches. Doing so can effect the Chronometer accuracy and will null and void your guarantee. The watch id manufactured to be worn with it's bracelet

That seems an odd position for Rolex to take. Any idea why ?
 
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Rolex advise customers NOT to fit leather straps to their bracelet watches. Doing so can effect the Chronometer accuracy and will null and void your guarantee. The watch id manufactured to be worn with it's bracelet
🤦
 
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A strap adversely affecting chronometer performance? If there is any basis in Rolex saying that, I would be glad to have the reason explained to me.
 
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A strap adversely affecting chronometer performance? If there is any basis in Rolex saying that, I would be glad to have the reason explained to me.
It's because the magnetic field of the earth balanced with...

No, just bullshit
 
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Rolex advise customers NOT to fit leather straps to their bracelet watches. Doing so can effect the Chronometer accuracy and will null and void your guarantee. The watch id manufactured to be worn with it's bracelet

Complete BS of course...
 
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Rolex advise customers NOT to fit leather straps to their bracelet watches. Doing so can effect the Chronometer accuracy and will null and void your guarantee. The watch id manufactured to be worn with it's bracelet

Now that's farken funny, can't wait to @JimInOz reads this.....
 
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Rolex advise customers NOT to fit leather straps to their bracelet watches. Doing so can effect the Chronometer accuracy and will null and void your guarantee. The watch id manufactured to be worn with it's bracelet

I've never heard of this claim.

Is this a official documented Rolex position, or the advice of (yet another) uninformed retailer?