Wear an Apple Watch and Rolex together for heart rate monitoring

Rolex and Apple Watch worn together on one wrist
How to wear a Rolex and Apple Watch together in 2026
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David Ohayon

Founder & CEO, Smartlet · CentraleSupélec engineer · Concours Lépine 2025, Awarded · CES 2026

The Submariner as dual wear base

I have no idea how many times I have been stopped by collectors who are lamenting having to choose between wearing their watch (mechanical) and their Apple Watch. While the idea of wearing a Rolex Submariner 124060 and pairing it with an Apple Watch may be seen as overkill to some people, to many watch collectors it is very much a common concern. The era of having to choose between having the time on a beautiful mechanical watch and being connected to the digital world is a thing of the past, and the trend of “dual wearing” is here to stay. In this article we shall look into ways that you can combine wearing your mechanical watch and your Apple Watch in a fashion that looks, not only stylish, but also comfortable. For this article we shall be focusing on the Rolex Submariner 124060 and the Apple Watch Series 10. Rolex Submariner 124060And an Apple Watch simultaneously sounds excessive, but this trend is gaining traction among collectors who refuse to choose between mechanical heritage and connected technology. The rise of dual wearing reflects a sophisticated approach to horology, where tradition and innovation coexist on the same wrist. This guide explores practical solutions for wearing both watches comfortably and stylishly, focusing on the Submariner 124060 and Apple Watch Series 10 as flagship examples that represent the best of both worlds.

Positioning and daily use

The era of having to choose between having the time on a beautiful mechanical watch and being connected to the digital world is a thing of the past, and the trend of “dual wearing” is here to stay. In this article we shall look into ways that you can combine wearing your mechanical watch and your Apple Watch in a fashion that looks, not only stylish, but also comfortable.

For this article we shall be focusing on the Rolex Submariner 124060 and the Apple Watch Series 10. Rolex Submariner 124060And an Apple Watch simultaneously sounds excessive, but this trend is gaining traction among collectors who refuse to choose between mechanical heritage and connected technology.

The rise of dual wearing reflects a sophisticated approach to horology, where tradition and innovation coexist on the same wrist. This guide explores practical solutions for wearing both watches comfortably and stylishly, focusing on the Submariner 124060 and Apple Watch Series 10 as flagship examples that represent the best of both worlds.

Points clés à retenir

Point Détails
Submariner 124060 lug width: 20mm Standard spring bar installation. No modification to the Rolex required. Smartlet attaches via the existing lug system.
Apple Watch Series 10: 44mm uses 45mm band Apple Watch band widths differ from lug-to-lug measurement. Check the Smartlet compatibility page for your exact model.
Scratch risk is real Metal-on-metal contact between two watches on the same wrist causes micro-abrasion. Smartlet keeps both devices separated and stable.
Inner wrist for the Apple Watch PPG sensors work on the inner wrist. Skin contact matters more than orientation. See the sensors article for the full explanation.
Both watches, zero compromise The Submariner reads time mechanically. The Apple Watch reads your body continuously. Neither function is reduced by wearing both.

The dual wear challenge

The collectors who tried to stack two watches before Smartlet existed know exactly what happened. The Submariner moved. The Apple Watch rotated. One of them got scratched.

There’s a lot of discussion on the r/Watches community about what pairings of watches work well and, which don’t, and naturally one of the most popular conversations revolves around pairing a Rolex with an Apple Watch. While to most people this will look hideous, it surprisingly works out quite well. The clash of the concept of a dive watch like the Submariner (like here with the 124060) and a smartwatch like the Apple Watch Ultra is initially rather unsettling – just like pairing two very different watches, and after a week or so you will stop focussing on the horror of the two concepts colliding and realise that, just like with any two watches you could choose to pair on one wrist, there’s simply no good reason to keep one safe and therefore no good reason to choose one over the other. The same is true for the Submariner 124060, the Datejust 41, the newer GMT-Master II, and more; as is the case with the Apple Watch. GMT-Master II: each one is a complete argument for the mechanical watch. The Apple Watch is a completely different argument. Both arguments are correct.es.

The clash of the concept of a dive watch like the Submariner (like here with the 124060) and a smartwatch like the Apple Watch Ultra is initially rather unsettling – just like pairing two very different watches, and after a week or so you will stop focussing on the horror of the two concepts colliding and realise that, just like with any two watches you could choose to pair on one wrist, there’s simply no good reason to keep one safe and therefore no good reason to choose one over the other.

The same is true for the Submariner 124060, the Datejust 41, the newer GMT-Master II, and more; as is the case with the Apple Watch.GMT-Master II: each one is a complete argument for the mechanical watch. The Apple Watch is a completely different argument. Both arguments are correct.es.

The Apple Watch Series 10Ultimately the Apple Watch Series 10 is a very different beast from a traditional watch. Forget about keeping time or tracking the passing seconds – here you’re in a world of notifications, fitness tracking and apps, where the primary function is one of technology and communication, where the Apple Watch’s focus on health, connectivity and close interaction with your iPhone is far more important than any aesthetic or traditional horological consideration.

These fundamental differences create real challenges when wearing both simultaneously:

  • Combined thickness and weight can cause discomfort during extended wear

  • Movement interference occurs when watches bump against each other or surfaces

This is just my opinion, but I believe that most of you will be against the dual wear of smartwatches due to design rather than function. Although design and function are important, it’s often the design that is decided on an emotional level. Here is a quick design comparison. Comparing the 40mm Rolex Submariner to the 45mm Apple Watch Ultra will not be for those of you that are strongly against the case size of the smartwatch.

Making it work with Smartlet

I believe that the new design of the Smartlet works best when watches are proportional, or to say, when the case diameters are not more than about 5mm apart. Therefore, the design of the Datejust 36 compared to the 49mm Apple Watch Ultra is at best. But comparing the 41mm Rolex Submariner to the 46mm Apple Watch Series 10 is a completely different matter.

Tradition wearing two watches

The tradition of wearing two watches on the wrists originated in fashion. Today, we benefit from technological advances, and it is possible to wear a Rolex on one wrist and an Apple Watch on the other. Our concern is with the design that unites these two watches on the wrist. wear Rolex and Apple Watch togetherBy addressing ergonomic and visual concerns through innovative accessories. The key lies in finding solutions that respect both watches’ design integrity while maximizing comfort.

Although adding a 150-gram watch to a 25-gram smartwatch doesn’t seem like a balance of weight, some extra weight on the wrist is hard to avoid. While we can tolerate some amount of weight, it can’t be so much that we need to adjust our watch band frequently. Using two watches on each wrist is a solution to balance the weight, but defeats the purpose of a single wearables device. Although less of a concern for more affordable wearables, the weight of a luxury watch is a critical consideration, as even the slightest scratch to the watch’s surface can significantly reduce its value.

Smartlet One: the modular bracelet solution for dual watch wearers

The engineering question was never whether two watches could occupy the same wrist. It was whether they could do so without either one degrading the other.

The Smartlet One braceletTheSmartlet One bracelet The modular concept of TheSmartlet One bracelet is here to revolution the dual wear concept. This French innovation allows you to wear two watches on the same wrist. Made of the same SS316L steel as the Omega Speedmaster cases, the two watches are held by push-button clasps that can be removed and rearranged tool-free. Omega SpeedmasterCases. The system integrates two watches on a single band with push-button clasps that enable tool-free reconfiguration.

The Smartlet band is compatible with most watches. It will fit: All Rolex watches with lug widths between 18mm and 24mm. This includes almost every Rolex model – such as the Rolex Submariner 124060 – as well as all Apple Watch sizes. You can easily swap the watch on and off using standard spring bars. The springs bars are in place meaning no modifications need to be made to the watch and no parts are lost. So the watch remains as it was and is not altered in any way, meaning that if you ever wanted to resell it or return it to stock the original untouched condition and value of the watch is preserved. supports watches with lug widths from 18 to 24mm, covering virtually every Rolex model including the Submariner 124060 and all Apple Watch sizes. Standard spring bars attach each watch without modification, preserving original components and resale value. This universal approach means collectors can swap between different mechanical watches and smartwatch models as their collection evolves.

Key insight

A Submariner and an Apple Watch Ultra on the same wrist is not a contradiction. It is a statement that you take both time and performance seriously.

So the watch remains as it was and is not altered in any way, meaning that if you ever wanted to resell it or return it to stock the original untouched condition and value of the watch is preserved.supports watches with lug widths from 18 to 24mm, covering virtually every Rolex model including the Submariner 124060 and all Apple Watch sizes.

Standard spring bars attach each

Standard spring bars attach each watch without modification, preserving original components and resale value. This universal approach means collectors can swap between different mechanical watches and smartwatch models as their collection evolves.

The modular system addresses key dual-wearing concerns:

  • Push-button simplify watch changes in seconds without tools

  • Balanced weight distribution prevents wrist fatigue during all-day wear

  • Premium materials match luxury watch quality and finish

Smartlet One Specifications

The Smartlet compatibility with RolexTheSmartlet is working with Rolex to replicate Datejust, GMT-Master or Explorer watches. For each model, the parts remain the same and only the finishing are changed in order to meet the needs of the Rolex collection that you have. The new material: Titanium The use of titanium allows to reduce the weight of a classic steel watch by 40% thus making it easier to wear during the day.

No watchmaking skills are needed. Simply remove the spring bars, fit the Smartlet adapter to each lug and link each watch to the modular band system. The clever push-button system provides a secure fit to the wrist, yet is easily released to interchange watches, allowing you to wear one watch singly, or swap each watch to the opposite arm of the body.

Balancing style and function

WHERE TO WEAR IT So as not to compromise either the comfort or the appearance of the combination, the Apple Watch should be worn on the lower arm and the mechanical watch on top. In this way, the Submariner sits in its usual position on the wrist, with its face and bezel in the normal operating position. This prevents any risk of damage to the mechanical watch from splashing caused by the ‘desk diving’ of the wearer, or from scratches to the casing. The Apple Watch is easily rotated to the front of the wrist ready for use with fitness tracking apps or to check notifications.

Image recommandée

Choosing the watch straps is purely an optical decision. We recommend materials and colour schemes that fit into the polished steel of a Submariner and do not attract the attention away from the watch face. Scratch resistant bands made of brushed metal are also acceptable, but do not combine them with anything too colourful such as bright rubber straps. The purpose is to have a well thought out and composed design with the mechanical timepiece being paired with an additional watch, which is then also worn in conjunction with the former in a seemingly almost random manner.

Preventing scratches on Apple Watch involves understanding the way in, which your Apple Watch interacts with various surfaces. Looking at your Apple Watch under the wrist may look good, but a Apple Watch will have to interact with more surfaces, like desks and tables. As the Apple Watch will be on the underside of the wrist more often, a screen protector is recommended in case of accidental drop. Scratches can appear very quickly, so you need to check your Apple Watch for any scratches. Wearing the smartwatch on the undersideReduces visual clutter, but increases contact with desks, tables, and other hard surfaces during daily activities. Regular inspection helps catch minor marks before they become noticeable damage. Consider applying a screen protector to your Apple Watch since the underside position exposes it to more potential impacts.

Scratches can appear very quickly

Scratches can appear very quickly, so you need to check your Apple Watch for any scratches. Wearing the smartwatch on the undersideReduces visual clutter, but increases contact with desks, tables, and other hard surfaces during daily activities. Regular inspection helps catch minor marks before they become noticeable damage. Consider applying a screen protector to your Apple Watch since the underside position exposes it to more potential impacts.

Practical wearing strategies for different situations:

  1. Travel days: Utilize both for time zone tracking and connectivity management

Comfort optimization is about monitoring the conditions of the strap adjustment and watch position during the day. You need to account for the natural swelling of the wrist caused by heat and by doing high intensity exercise, and there should be some adjustment margin. Comparing two watches to one, is giving some considerable concessions that need to be accounted for in terms of wearability and in terms of having the watches sit comfortably in the intended position for at least the first few hours.

There are a myriad of reasons to consider watch case protection other than scratch prevention. Your watch cases serve to protect your watches from general damage while, not being worn. Consider the junction points between the watch band, and the watch itself. Dust accumulation in these areas can lead to scratches if not cleaned properly. Those who choose to dual wear a mechanical watch and a smartwatch on the modular band may choose to modify their behavior around water in order to make full use of the functionality of the smartwatch.

One factor can affect level

One factor that can affect the level of discomfort experienced during long periods of wearing the pairs is weight distribution. I found that the 150g of a Submariner along with the Apple Watch is rather heavy for the wrist. Using the Titanium modular bands that are 30g lighter than steel helps reduce the fatigue caused by the additional weight of the steel bands. Be sure to take fatigue into consideration, and if you feel it, then remove one watch and start a transition period to adapt to the modular dual wear.

Rolex Submariner vs Apple Watch Series 10

The Rolex Submariner is a real mechanical watch that combines centuries of traditional watch-making techniques with the modern requirements of a diver’s watch. The 300 meters water-resistance and mechanical caliber 3230 guarantee that this no-date version of the watch is a real tool watch, completely in line with the principles of a watch that can last for generations, as long as it is correctly maintained. The ceramic bezel, the luminous dial indices and the Oyster case mean that, not a single detail of this watch has been created unnecessarily.

Infographic comparing Rolex and Apple Watch features

The Apple Watch Series 10 is more of a smartwatch than a watch. It’s really designed to be a fitness device and notification device as well as an app platform. The Apple Watch doesn’t really keep time in the traditional sense. As with many other smartwatches, the ECG, blood oxygen sensor and fall detection are all electronically powered within the watch movement.

The Apple Watch Series 10 also has built-in cellular so you never have to carry an iPhone. The fitness tracking features are also a big part of Apple Watch Series 10. The fitness tracking features of the Apple Watch Series 10 include the new design of the fitness rings that encourage you to get more exercise every day.

Submariner 124060 vs Apple Watch Series 10

Fonctionnalité Rolex Submariner 124060 Apple Watch Series 10
Movement Mechanical Caliber 3230 Digital S10 Chip
Power Reserve 70 hours 18 hours
Water Resistance 300 meters 50 meters
Case Material 904L Stainless Steel Aluminum/Titanium
Display Analog Dial OLED Retina
Connectivity None Cellular/WiFi/Bluetooth
Primary Function Timekeeping/Diving Smart Features/Health
Lifespan Generational 3-5 years

What are looking here are

What we are looking at here are two completely different watches, and it is the differences between them that make it desirable for collectors to wear both. The Submariner is a watch with a multitude of different emotions; the design, and the history of the watch is what stands out. The Submariner’s roots lie with the model from 1953.

Wind the crown and hear the rotor turn, and you will not help, but feel a sense of amazement at what is a 62 year old piece of precision engineering that has been completely hand built. Investing in technology that will be out of date in two to three years is not what you are looking at here. You are investing in quality and a piece that over time will increase in value.

It seems the Apple Watch is a pretty useful device and fully integrates with iOS. You can do things such as reply to messages, control your smart home devices and even track your workouts. Apple seems to release new features through software updates as well. The Apple Watch does feel more like an extension of my iPhone though, rather than a traditional watch.

Wearing two watches is not about being in the past, and the future, it is about having different tools at your disposal. As watch collectors, we know that horology and technology are suited to differing tasks and having a mechanical watch like a Rolex Submariner and a device like an Apple Watch will allow you to access the different strengths of each.

The Submariner is a watch with a soul. It keeps perfect time. The Apple Watch is a device that is smart. It links you with other people, objects and sources of information. These two watches are a good example of the possibilities in terms of functions that can be contained in a watch on the wrist.

Increasing number collectors are starting

An increasing number of collectors are starting to adopt the dual wear concept, which we believe is a far more natural way to approach watch collecting. The traditional “versus” debate, which has long been the common theme in watch collecting, is slowly fading away in favour of a more rational and pragmatic approach to collecting watches. The fact that one can now wear an Apple Watch on the wrist does not diminish in any way the pleasure derived from wearing a traditional mechanical watch. Rather, each watch can be considered to represent a different aspect of watch collecting. A mechanical watch can serve to pay homage to the rich traditional roots of watchmaking, while a smart watch can bring the wearer into the 21st century. In this way, the two opposing concepts become the cornerstones of a new collecting philosophy. compatibility between Apple Watch and mechanical watchesEnhances rather than diminishes either piece. The mechanical watch grounds you in horological history while the smartwatch propels you through contemporary demands. This complementary relationship defines modern collecting philosophy.

The fact that one can now wear an Apple Watch on the wrist does not diminish in any way the pleasure derived from wearing a traditional mechanical watch. Rather, each watch can be considered to represent a different aspect of watch collecting.

A mechanical watch can serve to pay homage to the rich traditional roots of watchmaking, while a smart watch can bring the wearer into the 21st century. In this way, the two opposing concepts become the cornerstones of a new collecting philosophy.compatibility between Apple Watch and mechanical watchesEnhances rather than diminishes either piece. The mechanical watch grounds you in horological history while the smartwatch propels you through contemporary demands. This complementary relationship defines modern collecting philosophy.

Why collectors choose dual wear

Do you want to have a dual wear, without having to choose between your mechanical and smartwatches? Our Smartlet modular watch straps will provide you with the precision and accuracy you need. Our Smartlet modular watch straps have been invented by watch collector David Ohayon, who wanted to answer the question that has been haunting watch collectors all over the world for years : if you love watches, why having to choose between your mechanical watches and your smartwatches? With our patented modular system, developed by French engineering experts, both categories of watches are respected. Smartlet modular watch strapsOffer the precision-engineered solution you need. Founded by watch collector David Ohayon, Smartlet emerged from a simple frustration: why should collectors choose between mechanical heritage and smart technology? The patented modular system answers this question with French engineering that respects both watch categories equally.

With our patented modular system, developed by French engineering experts, both categories of watches are respected. Smartlet modular watch strapsOffer the precision-engineered solution you need. Founded by watch collector David Ohayon, Smartlet emerged from a simple frustration: why should collectors choose between mechanical heritage and smart technology? The patented modular system answers this question with French engineering that respects both watch categories equally.

https://smartlet.io

We have chosen to realize three different versions, to satisfy all tastes and needs: - Classic, in polished SS316L stainless steel, with the typical watchmaking design standards of the highest luxury segment. - Shadow, in black PVD coating, for those who prefer a more contemporary, low visibility design. - Titanium, in Grade 2 titanium alloy, 40% lighter than stainless steel. Regardless of the chosen version, all smartwatches will maintain the modern and innovative modular structure, guaranteed also with respect to compatibility with Rolex and Apple Watch models.

Wearing a Rolex and an Apple Watch is a statement to the world about, not wanting to pretend that one tool can be all things. The Rolex is a fine time piece that has real value. The Apple Watch tracks your heart rate, exposes all your messages and tracks your runs. Smartlet just holds them both without apology.

Questions fréquentes

Yes, with the correct accessories (such as our modular bands, which allow for dual wear) you can layer one watch on top of the other and by balancing out the weight of the two timepieces, the watches sit flat on the wrist in a very natural way. After a short adjustment period, the watches sit flat on the wrist and with the use of titanium to keep the weight as low as possible, this dual wear is very comfortable.

Will wearing both watches together scratch my Rolex?

In general the risk of damage to your smartwatch is low when you are wearing them on your wrist and an accident should, not happen. In the unlikely event of an accident caused by a fall and resulting in damage to your watch, it will be possible to separate the parts of the watch casings. In order to avoid unsightly scratches to the screen of your Apple Watch, we strongly recommend using a screen cover and to control regularly the positioning of your Apple Watch. Thus, your watches will not be damaged and will always keep their original value.

How do I choose, which watch to position on top?

Most people find it more comfortable and easier to see the watch movement by wearing the Rolex like shown in this photo. This way you can wear the Rolex in a more natural position on the wrist and still be able to easily reach and use the Apple Watch by simply rotating your wrist. You may need to experiment with different combinations of watches to find what works best for your lifestyle and personal preferences.

Does the Smartlet band work during workouts and swimming?

We cannot predict with certainty the likelihood of the sweating or water spill accidents on the SS316L steel and titanium materials. Please refer to the Rolex and Apple Watch on one wrist guide for specific activities: When engaged in serious swimming or diving, always keep the two watches apart to avoid mutual damage and to ensure optimal water resistance.

Does double wristing affect the value or wear of my luxury watch?

A dual wear should, not affect the value of a Rolex if the following precautions are taken. First and foremost the strap should be scratch proof and the Rolex parts kept in their original condition. Any marks on the watch or its components should be avoided at all costs, and the integrity of the original components must be preserved.

Some modular dual wear straps use standard spring bars, therefore no alterations are required to the watch head. A little adjustment to the way the watch and strap are worn is in order, to prevent any damage to the Rolex. Many people are surprised to find that they can easily wear two Rolex watches on their wrists, whilst still preserving the value of their precious investment.

Is the Smartlet One band compatible with other luxury watch brands?

Yes. Our watches fit to lug widths of 18 to 24mm. All the common Swiss watches such as Omega, Tudor, TAG Heuer and many more will fit onto the Smartlet strap. They will also fit many of the non-Apple smartwatches. If you are a watch collector who likes to rotate your watches on your wrist then the Smartlet is definitely an option for you. See some of the luxury watch brands we have listed in our compatibility guide here. Please note this is not a 100% list, and we would always recommend checking the lug width of your watch and comparing to the size of the Smartlet strap band to confirm fit. Tudor, TAG Heuer, and most Swiss brands. It also works with various smartwatch brands beyond Apple Watch. This versatility makes Smartlet ideal for collectors with diverse watch collections who want flexibility in their dual-wearing configurations. Check Smartlet compatibility with luxury brandsFor specific model confirmation.

Please note this is not a 100% list, and we would always recommend checking the lug width of your watch and comparing to the size of the Smartlet strap band to confirm fit. Tudor,TAG Heuer, and most Swiss brands. It also works with various smartwatch brands beyond Apple Watch. This versatility makes Smartlet ideal for collectors with diverse watch collections who want flexibility in their dual-wearing configurations. CheckSmartlet compatibility with luxury brandsFor specific model confirmation.

It is possible to unite tradition and modernity each without having to forgo the other. So you can use fitness tracking, receive push messages or carry out other smartwatch functions in addition to enjoying the art of watchmaking to the full.

Using interchangeable design elements that can be individualised for the ModulClockSmartBand 40 enables a stylish transition from a business meeting to a workout in the sports stadium. With Dual Wear, you wear two watches at the same time and set a fashion statement. The tradition of horology and modernity of technology are presented in a mutually complementary relationship.