From SwissWatchExpo… Spotlight on: our picks for the most iconic
watch bracelets. Watch bracelets that are stuff of legend.
There are iconic watches and then there are iconic watch bracelets. We’re talking about
the ones that are instantly recognizable, even non-watch collectors can identify them.
Bracelets don’t get as much attention as the dial or bezel, but there some that have
stood the test of time – not just because they’re beautiful, but because they wear
comfortably. Let’s check them out.
First up is the Oyster – Rolex’s highly functional bracelet.
Back in the 1920’s, Rolex used to fit their watches with metal bracelets made by Gay Freres,
a prominent Swiss bracelet manufacturer. Often, these bracelet designs were also used by other
watch companies.
Rolex decided to create their own bracelets – and the Oyster was born. Patented in 1947,
the Oyster is characterized by its robust three-link design that can be fitted with
different clasps.
It’s found on their entire Professional range – such as the Daytona and the Submariner
– and also on some classic models like the Datejust, Day-Date, and Sky-Dweller.
Up next is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak bracelet – the pioneer of integrated bracelets.
Designed by the legendary Gerald Genta, the Royal Oak presented many firsts. That included
a bracelet that was seamlessly connected to the case - compared to traditional bracelets
that are attached by the lugs.
Aside from that, the Royal Oak bracelet also has a pair of vertical chains that run through
its horizontal links, making it so distinct. Combined with the use of beveled and polished
stainless steel, the Royal Oak was truly ahead of its time.
Yet another iconic bracelet from Rolex, is the Jubilee. It is Rolex’s first ever bracelet
to be made in house.
The Rolex Jubilee bracelet was designed especially for the launch of the Datejust in 1945, which
also marked Rolex’s 40th anniversary. It was initially offered only in solid gold and
followed by two-tone and stainless steel options in the mid-1950s.
The Jubilee is also robust like the Oyster, but with smaller, rounded, five-piece links
- two rounded semi circular ones on the outside, and three smaller ones at the center. It is
decidedly dressier, and looks more elegant than traditional watch brands.
Considered the most prestigious of the Rolex bracelets, the President was specifically
made for their premium, flagship watch, the Day-Date.
Visually, the President bracelet looks like a combination of the Oyster and Jubilee, with
its three-piece links, in rounded semi-circular shapes. It is fitted with the Crownclasp,
Rolex’s elegant concealed clasp..
Until today, the President bracelet is reserved only for the Day-Date; and a few Lady Datejust
models. It is only crafted in either 18k gold or platinum, just as Rolex Day-Date models
are.
Our next pick is the Milanese, otherwise known as the mesh-metal bracelet. It does not belong
to one particular brand and is quite ubiquitous.
Made of fine-knit metal, the design originated in Milan in the 19th century, was perfected
in Germany in the 20th century, and experienced a resurgence in the 1960s.
Robust yet smooth and supple, the Milanese also gives any watch a vintage appearance.
It also has the benefit of being adjustable without having to remove or add bracelet links.
And finally, we have the NATO strap. NATO straps also cannot be pinned down to one brand
and are fairly ubiquitous; but their history can be pinned down to one source – the British
Ministry of Defence.
In the 1970’s, every soldier of the MoD was given a chronograph and soon many of them
were sporting webbed nylon bands. These straps were preferred for their moisture-resistant
properties, which is ideal for the military exercise regimen.
Today, the NATO is a sporty and sometimes playful alternative to leather and metal bracelets.
There you have it – our top picks for the most iconic watch bracelets. Which one is
your favorite? Tell us on the comments section.