My first suggestion was to be sure the bracelet was not tight, thus causing moisture to build under the clasp. Any suggestions?
Poly member 3708
Newer or older one? I wrote an article for a magazine about the steel that Rolex uses. It was several years ago so I am doing this from memory. Rolex used exclusively for many years 316L (stainless steel), which DOES have nickel in it, but was formulated for its wear and brightness and for its ability to withstand acids on the skin and in the water. Around 1990 they switched to 904L, which has MORE nickel in it (the main advantage of 904L is its resistance to acids). It also has more copper though. As Rolex says in their literature: “The addition of copper to this grade gives it greatly improved resistance to strong reducing acids, particularly sulfuric acid.”
Poly member 330
The watch is an “M” serial number. Not being a Rolex dealer I was not aware of this issue. Are there practical solutions?
Poly member 3708
Take a toothbrush, with hot water and Dawn and wash the clasp out. She is funky!
Poly member 84388
I would suggest that she takes the watch off at night to let her skin breathe. As previously noted, she should probably clean the band almost daily, just a quick scrub and rinse. DON’T wear it in the shower, to avoid getting soap stuck in it and don’t get perfume stuck in the band, either. I have a Hirsch waterproof, diver’s strap band, and even with that, soap and perspiration can irritate your skin.
Poly member 1332
I see a lot of “nickel allergies” that are just soap and hand lotion trapped under a ring and irritating the skin.
Poly member 141140
Clear nail polish will stop metal contact with skin. If the condition continues, then it is not a “nickel allergy,” but rather “contact dermatitis” caused by soap and moisture, as has been suggested. Rhodium is probably not a practical solution. Maybe a powder would help absorb moisture? Good luck.
Poly member 88405
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