Hands-On With The New Gold-Plated Forstner Bracelets
As a die-hard collector of vintage watches, I’ve grown to appreciate the right accessories to pair with my treasured pieces. Straps are a great option, and we’ve devoted plenty of articles to reviewing them. However, an appropriate bracelet is the chef’s kiss. The problem is that authentic bracelets are difficult to find and are often in rough condition. This is doubly so for plated versions. What’s a collector to do? Enter the gold-plated Forstner bracelets to save the day.
In 2019, Forstner announced its relaunch. The historic brand later became known as Jacoby Bender and produced bracelets for some of the most renowned original equipment manufacturer (OEM) brands. This included Rolex, Universal Genève, Longines, and more. Perhaps Forstner’s most famous product was the Komfit, which accompanied astronauts and their Omega Speedmasters into space in the 1960s and ’70s. This bracelet was relaunched in 2019, and since then, we’ve been treated to many faithful designs. With the latest gold-plated Forstner bracelets, another classic is available again for dressier vintage watches.
The gold-plated Forstner bracelets
For now, we need to be content with two gold-plated Forstner options. Technically, there are three new releases, but one is available in two widths. The models have a few key aspects in common. Each bracelet is 316L stainless steel with yellow gold plating.
Each piece also has a toolless adjustment system. Essentially, the receiving end of the clasp has a locking lever. After flipping the lever into the open position, the receiving end slides along the bracelet to the desired length.
The locking portion of the clasp has a small, sliding, spring-loaded button that activates a hook. This clamps on the receiving end and locks the bracelet. The system is effective and simple. Admittedly, because the button is small and polished, it works best with fingernails.
Two mesh versions
The gold-plated Forstner original mesh Komfit comes in two widths. The 18mm-wide version has spring-loaded end links to fit watches with 19–22mm lug spacings. A narrower 16mm-wide version fits watches with lug gaps between 16mm and 20mm. Indeed, some optionality exists since either model will fit lugs 19–20mm apart.
Pairing and enjoying on the wrist
For anyone used to a heavy, modern bracelet, the gold-plated Forstner mesh model will feel very lightweight. But the Komfit is strong and incredibly comfortable. It also looks great on any vintage gold watch. We’ve paired these bracelets with older Omega Constellations, but they would fit almost anything from the same period.
Regarding the choice of widths, I’m a fan of the narrower model for the ultimate vintage look on dressier watches. The wider version strikes me as more appropriate on a sportier, chunkier, or more modern watch. Regardless of the choice, it’s nice to know there’s a great alternative to straps for gold-tone watches.
The gold-plated Forstner Komfit Military Type
Another design to make the cut as the latest gold-plated Forstner bracelet is the Komfit Military Type. This model debuted in the 1930s and was notable for its thinness and flexible fit. A bare stainless version has been available for several years, but a gold-plated version should tempt vintage collectors. The bracelet is 16mm wide, and the spring-loaded endlinks will fit watches with 16–20mm lug spacings.
We paired the Komfit Military Type with a ’50s Omega Seamaster, and it looks fantastic. I’d also try it on one of my many gold-plated rectangular watches from the 1930s or ’40s. While I think it has a slightly more formal appearance, it’s versatile enough to work with various watch styles.
On the wrist
An ill-informed look at the gold-plated Forstner Komfit Military Type may send shivers down one’s spine. I say that because its slats remind us of claspless expansion-style bracelets. Maybe there’s a time and place for those, but the cheap versions moonlight as hair-removal tools. Erase your concerns about this bracelet, though, because the inside of it is mesh. The result is a seriously comfortable and, again, lightweight accompaniment.
Would I wear a Forstner bracelet on an expensive watch?
The brand’s website displays these new gold-plated Forstner bracelets on two intriguing watches, the Omega Speedmaster Professional Apollo 11 50th Anniversary in Moonshine Gold and a 1950s Patek Philippe Calatrava. This begs an interesting question: would I wear a relatively affordable bracelet on a comparatively expensive watch? Before I answer that, I’ll mention that the bracelets have internal lug protectors to keep the spring-loaded endlinks from scoring the case. Regarding the answer, I would do so if the gold tones match. I’ve collected a few vintage gold-plated bracelets, and they look great with my watches, whether solid gold or plated. Plus, I know of 1930s and 1940s solid gold watches that originally shipped with plated bracelets. Therefore, even though a vintage solid gold bracelet is always preferable, it’s a huge financial commitment. Plus, it will generally be much harder to find.
The gold-plated Forstner bracelets are reasonably priced
At US$135, the gold-plated Forstner bracelets cost the same as their non-plated counterparts. There was a time when this may have sounded expensive, but third-party leather straps often cost more. Plus, after handling enough Forstner bracelets, it’s clear that these are high-quality products. I’ve even recently compared the Komfit Mesh to an original, and guess what: it’s bang on! Therefore, if pairing a gold watch with a comfortable vintage-style bracelet sounds refreshing, choose one of these new releases with confidence.
What do you think of these gold-plated Forstner bracelets? Do you have any watches that would pair well with them? Let us know in the comments.
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