mdkrebs11
9
Bracelet Observation
Before I purchased my GTXL Chrono 8459 today, I borrowed my friend's GTXL 8997 for the weekend to take it for a test run. Loved the watch and sealed the deal for me to buy a GTXL. The one thing I noticed on his watch was the poor design of the clasp for his rubber bracelet. The clasp attached to the bracelet with a metal plunger that could be pushed in and pulled out of the various holes in the rubber rather easily. I was constantly concerned it might pull out accidentally and fall off my wrist. I also noticed that the pieces you push in on the sides of the clasp to release it were INCREDIBLY difficult manage. It was virtually impossible to push them in and release the clasp. This was a major concern for me before making my purchase. I'm happy to report that the clasp on the 8459 (which I think is a newer model by a year) is significantly improved - at least on the one I took home. Rather than just a metal plug you push into the holes in the rubber bracelet, mine has a metal piece that must be screwed in. The head on the metal piece is significantly larger than the holes in the rubber so there is no chance at all that it might fall out. Also, the 2 release buttons on the sides of the clasp are very easy to press and release. It is very easy to put on and take off this watch. A significant improvement over my friend's earlier model. Not sure if Chopard listened to complaints from owners of earlier models or what but the version I have is incredibly easy to use. Just my $.02.
Here is a picture of the screw piece in the bracelet. Much improved!!!
Bracelet Observation
