Rolex Oyster Bracelet Clasp in Stainless Steel and Gold (Two-Tone)
Watch Accessory / Jewelry (Bracelet Clasp) · Rolex (Montres Rolex S.A.), founded in England, based in Geneva, Switzerland. Renowned globally for high-end horology and durable metal finishes.
Pattern: Oyster Bracelet, Two-Tone (Rolesor), Datejust/Daytona style series. Identified by the '72200' and 'CL5' clasp codes.
Type
Watch Accessory / Jewelry (Bracelet Clasp)
Maker
Rolex (Montres Rolex S.A.), founded in England, based in Geneva, Switzerland. Renowned globally for high-end horology and durable metal finishes.
Material
Stainless Steel and 18k Gold or Gold-Plated base. Despite the silver appearance, the metal is 'STEELINOX' (Stainless Steel), a corrosion-resistant alloy used by Rolex.
Dimensions
Approximately 16mm-20mm width (standard for Datejust/GMT models). Lightweight mechanical assembly, approx 15-25 grams for the clasp section.
Description
This is a folding Oysterclasp from a Rolex bracelet, featuring a two-tone aesthetic. While visually metallic 'silver,' it is constructed from Rolex's proprietary Steelinox. The interior is highly polished with crisp branding, while the exterior shows the classic blend of luxury gold and industrial steel.
Key Features
'CL5' clasp code, '72200' reference number, 'STEELINOX' marking, and the iconic Rolex coronet. This specific combination is typical of mid-2000s sport or dress watches.
Material & Composition
Stainless Steel and 18k Gold or Gold-Plated base. Despite the silver appearance, the metal is 'STEELINOX' (Stainless Steel), a corrosion-resistant alloy used by Rolex.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish on the interior clasp blade, brushed finish on outer steel links, and polished finish on the central gold link. Laser-etched or stamped manufacturer logos.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved 'ROLEX' with crown logo; 'GENEVA' and 'SWISS MADE' stamps. Clasp blades marked 'STEELINOX' and '72200' with clasp code 'CL5'. Small circular Rolex logo on the link arm.
Construction Details
Machine-produced, precision-milled stainless steel blades with pinned hinges and a fold-over locking mechanism. Modern CNC manufacturing consistent with 21st-century production.
Functional Features
Oysterlock safety clasp mechanism with internal hinge and folding deployment. Designed for secure fastening and ease of use on professional and dress watches.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Integrated watch clasp). Integrated thumb-lift for releasing the locking mechanism.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision machine milling. The hinges should operate smoothly without lateral 'play.' High-quality laser etching or stamping depending on the specific year of 2000s production.
Authentication Indicators
The markings 'CL5' and '72200' are standard for this era. However, the etching quality appears somewhat shallow/soft in the photo, and the 'STEELINOX' font spacing should be verified with a loupe. The presence of a tag saying 'unverified authenticity' is a major red flag regarding its origin.
Origin & Manufacturing
Geneva, Switzerland. Manufactured following high-precision Swiss watchmaking traditions.
Era & Period
Modern Era (2000s-Present). The 'CL5' code typically corresponds to production around 2006, part of the transition to improved clasp designs.
Age Estimate
Circa 2006-2010 based on the 'CL5' stamp and the '72200' model number commonly associated with the 116234 Datejust era.
Cultural Significance
Rolex represents the pinnacle of luxury status and engineering reliability. The Oyster bracelet is one of the most recognized and imitated designs in global fashion and horology.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair. Visible scratches and scuffs indicate regular daily wear. The engraving shows significant dirt/oxidation or wear within the recesses. The gold link appears slightly worn.
Value Estimate
$300 - $800 USD (genuine, pre-owned condition). If proven to be a replica as the tag suggests, the value is negligible (approx $10-$20).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush to remove skin oils and grime from the logo recesses. Use a microfiber cloth for polishing. Avoid abrasive cleaners on the gold section.
Similar Pieces
Tudor folding clasps (sister brand), generic aftermarket 'Rolex-style' clasps (often lacking specific reference numbers), and earlier vintage friction-lock clasps.
Interesting Facts
The term 'STEELINOX' is a portmanteau of Steel and Inoxydable (French for stainless). Rolex clasp codes like 'CL5' allow collectors to date a watch to within months of production.