6 Most Iconic Watch Bracelets

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 are certain styles that have stood the test of time – not just because they’re beautifully made but because they wear so comfortably.

Here are watch bracelets we consider stuff of legend:

ROLEX OYSTER

Back in the 1920’s, Rolex used to fit their watches with metal bracelets made by Gay Freres, a prominent Swiss bracelet manufacturer. As these bracelets were also used by other watch companies, Rolex decided to design their own – thus, the Oyster was born.

The Oyster is characterized by its robust three-link design that can be fitted with different clasps (Oysterclasp, Oysterlock, and Crownclasp). It’s found on their entire Professional range and also on some classic models like the Datejust, Day-Date, and Sky-Dweller.
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ROLEX JUBILEE

The Rolex Jubilee bracelet was designed especially for the launch of the Datejust in 1945, which also marked Rolex’s 40^th anniversary. It was initially offered only in solid gold and followed by two-tone and stainless steel options in the mid-50s.

The Jubilee is also robust like the Oyster, but with smaller, rounded, five-piece links, it is decidedly dressier and looks more elegant than traditional watch brands.
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AUDEMARS PIGUET ROYAL OAK

The Royal Oak was the pioneer of integrated bracelets. Designed by the legendary Gerald Genta, the Royal Oak presented many firsts, and that included a bracelet that was seamlessly connected to the case.

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. SEE ALL ROYAL OAK >

ROLEX PRESIDENT

Considered the most prestigious of the Rolex bracelets, the President was specifically made for their premium, flagship watch, the Day-Date. Visually, it looks like a combination of the Oyster and Jubilee, with its three-piece links in rounded semi-circular shapes.

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 and fitted only with the Crownclasp, Rolex’s elegant concealed clasp. SEE ALL PRESIDENT >

THE MILANESE

The Milanese, otherwise known as the mesh-metal bracelet, does not belong to one particular brand. Made of fine-knit metal, the design originated in Milan in the 19^th century, was perfected in Germany in the 20^th 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. SEE ALL MILANESE / MESH >

THE NATO

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 which carried the NATO stock number G1098. 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. SEE ALL NATO >