Helvetus Debuts FKM Rubber Straps Engineered for Rolex References
Helvetus has introduced FKM rubber straps specifically designed for various Rolex models, such as the Submariner, Daytona, GMT-Master II, Datejust, Day-Date, and Sky-Dweller. These straps feature a precise fit for the cases and are crafted from durable vulcanized FKM rubber, originally developed in the 1950s for seals in extreme environments. In contrast to silicone, FKM retains its shape but is more challenging to manufacture, resulting in fewer color choices and elevated costs. This initiative signifies a trend in watch design moving away from leather straps toward integrated cases, as seen in Gérald Genta's Royal Oak (1972) and Nautilus (1976). Additionally, Helvetus produces straps for the Cartier Santos, while Rolex's Oysterflex (2015) combines a titanium-nickel alloy with elastomer. The FKM Rubber Range was presented to designboom and edited by Christina Vergopoulou.
Key facts
- Helvetus produces reference-specific FKM rubber straps for Rolex models including the Submariner, Daytona, GMT-Master II, Datejust, Day-Date, and Sky-Dweller
- FKM is a fluoroelastomer originally developed in the 1950s for seals and O-rings exposed to jet fuel, heat, and solvents
- Silicone straps can attract dust and lint due to electrostatic properties and may develop a tacky surface over time
- Gérald Genta designed the Royal Oak in 1972 and the Nautilus in 1976, making the bracelet a continuation of the case
- Cartier's Santos was designed in 1904 for pilot Alberto Santos-Dumont; its 2018 redesign introduced QuickSwitch and SmartLink
- Rolex introduced the Oysterflex in 2015, combining a titanium and nickel alloy blade with an elastomer overmold
- Helvetus makes Cartier Santos straps for Medium and Large cases with curved ends that meet the lugs without a visible gap
- The FKM Rubber Range For Rolex was submitted via designboom's DIY submissions feature and edited by Christina Vergopoulou
Entities
Artists
- Gérald Genta
- Alberto Santos-Dumont
- Christina Vergopoulou
Institutions
- Helvetus
- Rolex
- Cartier
- designboom
Locations
- Switzerland