Rolex Easylink vs. Glidelock: What's the difference?

The Rolex Easylink comfort extension and Glidelock clasp both offer on-the-fly bracelet adjustments, but they serve different purposes. The Easylink is a simple, hidden extension that instantly adds about 5mm of length, perfect for slight wrist swelling on a hot day. The Glidelock is a more advanced sliding mechanism, typically found on Rolex dive watches, that allows for up to 20mm of fine-tuned adjustment in 2mm increments, providing a perfect fit in any condition.

Here's a detailed comparison to help you understand which Rolex adjustment system suits your lifestyle.

Rolex Easylink Comfort Extension

The Easylink system is Rolex's solution for quick, minor comfort adjustments. Found on a wide range of models including the GMT-Master II, Daytona, and Datejust, it's designed for the everyday wearer who experiences subtle changes in wrist size due to temperature or activity.

• What it is: A concealed extension link hidden inside the clasp that allows the wearer to instantly lengthen the bracelet by approximately 5mm.
• Key features: Tool-free operation, single, fixed 5mm adjustment, discreetly integrated into the clasp design.
• Price: Included standard on compatible models, it is not a feature with its own separate cost.
• Functionality: To engage the Easylink, you simply open the clasp and fold out a small, half-size link that is tucked away inside. This action releases the extra 5mm of room instantly.
• Models: Most Oyster bracelet models in the Oyster Perpetual, Datejust, Daytona, Explorer I & II, Air-King, Milgauss, Sky-Dweller, and GMT-Master II collections.
• Pros: Extremely simple and fast to use. The adjustment is subtle and maintains the sleek profile of the clasp. It's the perfect solution for minor daily fluctuations in wrist size.
• Cons: Limited adjustment range (one setting of 5mm). Not sufficient for making large-scale adjustments, like fitting the watch over a wetsuit. You either have the extra 5mm or you don't - there's no middle ground.

This system is ideal for those who primarily wear their watch in casual or professional settings and need a simple way to relieve pressure on warm days or during travel.

Shop this feature on applicable models: rolex.com

Rolex Glidelock Clasp

The Glidelock clasp is Rolex's robust, professional-grade adjustment system engineered for its dive watches. It offers a much wider and more precise range of adjustments, making it essential for divers who need to fit their watch over a wetsuit and for anyone who demands an absolutely perfect fit at all times.

• What it is: A patented toothed rack system built into the clasp that allows the wearer to adjust the bracelet length in approximately 2mm increments, for a total extension of about 20mm.
• Key features: Tool-free sliding mechanism, fine-tuned incremental adjustments, secure locking system.
• Price: Included standard on dive watch models like the Submariner and Sea-Dweller.
• Functionality: To adjust, you lift the main clasp blade to disengage the lock, slide the bracelet along the internal rack to the desired position, and then securely snap it back into place.
• Models: Standard on the Submariner, Sea-Dweller, and Rolex Deepsea.
• Pros: Superior range of adjustment allows for a perfect fit. Essential functionality for divers fitting a watch over varying wetsuit thicknesses. The incremental adjustments offer a much more precise level of comfort than the Easylink.
• Cons: The mechanism requires a slightly longer and bulkier clasp to house the rack system. Adjusting is a bit more involved than the simple fold-out action of the Easylink.

This clasp is engineered for wearers who need precise, substantial adjustments for professional use or anyone who prioritizes a high degree of customizability in their watch fit.

Shop this feature on applicable models: rolex.com/watches/submariner

Rolex Easylink vs. Glidelock Comparison

Adjustment Range & Precision

The most functional difference is in the adjustment capability. The Easylink offers a single, non-negotiable extension of approximately 5mm. It is designed as a quick "on or off" comfort fix for minor wrist swelling.

In contrast, the Glidelock provides a total adjustment range of about 20mm, available in precise 2mm increments. This allows you to find your exact perfect fit and make micro-adjustments as needed. This range is also why it's the standard for Rolex dive watches, as it provides enough length to easily fit over a bulky wetsuit.

Design & Wearability

Because the Easylink is just a simple comfort link, it is housed within a standard-sized Rolex Oysterclasp. The clasp is sleek, trim, and maintains a traditional profile on the wrist. Most people would never know the mechanism is there unless it's pointed out.

The Glidelock system requires a physically larger clasp to accommodate its internal toothed rack and sliding mechanism. As a result, the Glidelock clasp is longer and more substantial than a standard Oysterclasp. While still expertly designed, its larger size is a noticeable characteristic of the models it comes on, like the Submariner.

Ease of Use

For its singular purpose, the Easylink is faster to use. A simple flick of the wrist can partially unhook or hook the link inside the clasp, letting you make the adjustment in less than a second. It's effortless.

The Glidelock is also tool-free and straightforward but requires a more deliberate action: lifting the clasp cover, sliding the bracelet to the right spot, and closing it again. It takes a few seconds but offers far greater control. The trade-off is slightly more complexity for significantly more versatility.

Who Each One Works Best For

The Easylink system is purpose-built for the vast majority of Rolex owners. It's perfect for business professionals, travelers, and everyday enthusiasts who wear models like the GMT-Master II or Datejust and just need a little extra breathing room throughout a normal day. It's an elegant and simple solution for daily comfort changes.

The Glidelock is for the specialist or the perfectionist. Its primary audience is divers who need its extensive adjustment range for professional use. However, it's also highly valued by watch enthusiasts who are particular about achieving and maintaining the perfect fit, no matter the conditions.

Which One Should You Choose?

While you often don't choose the system itself but rather a Rolex model that includes it, understanding the difference is key to picking the right watch.

The Rolex Easylink is for you if:

• You primarily need a quick fix for minor wrist swelling from heat or humidity.
• You value a sleeker, more traditional clasp size and profile.
• Your desired watch is one of the sports or classic models like the Daytona, Explorer, or Datejust.
• You don't need to fit your watch over technical gear like a wetsuit sleeve.

The Rolex Glidelock is for you if:

• You are a diver or engage in activities that require wearing a watch over clothing or gear.
• You are highly sensitive to your watch fit and want the ability to make micro-adjustments.
• You want one of Rolex's professional dive watches like the Submariner, Sea-Dweller, or Deepsea.
• You prefer ultimate function and versatility, even if it means a larger clasp.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Rolex Easylink and Glidelock?

The main difference is their range and precision. Easylink is a simple, quick-release link that extends the bracelet by a fixed 5mm. Glidelock is a sliding mechanism that allows for up to 20mm of adjustment in small, 2mm increments.

How much can you adjust with the Easylink?

The Easylink system allows for a single adjustment of approximately 5mm, equivalent to adding or removing half a bracelet link.

How much can you adjust with the Glidelock?

The Glidelock clasp allows for a total adjustment range of about 20mm, which can be modified in 10 different increments of 2mm each.

Is Glidelock better than Easylink?

Glidelock is technically more advanced and offers superior functionality and precision. However, "better" depends on the wearer's needs. For quick daily comfort, the simplicity and discreetness of the Easylink can be preferable.

Which Rolex models have Easylink?

The Easylink system is found on most modern professional and classic models with an Oyster bracelet, including the GMT-Master II, Daytona, Explorer, Datejust, and Sky-Dweller.

Which Rolex models have Glidelock?

The Glidelock clasp is standard on Rolex's dive watch collection, which includes the Submariner, Sea-Dweller, and Rolex Deepsea.

Can you add a Glidelock clasp to a Rolex that came with an Easylink?

No, Rolex does not sell clasps separately, and authorized service centers will only replace parts on a like-for-like basis. The clasps are engineered for specific bracelet and case combinations and are generally not interchangeable through official channels.

Do you need tools to adjust either system?

No, both the Easylink and Glidelock systems are designed to be completely tool-free, allowing for easy adjustments on the move.

Is the Glidelock clasp noticeably larger?

Yes. To house its sliding rack mechanism, the Glidelock clasp is longer and slightly thicker than a standard Oysterclasp that contains an Easylink. It's a key design feature of the models it comes on.