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| Joined: | Sun Sep 21st, 2008 |
| Location: | Cape Town, South Africa |
| Posts: | 2724 |
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Not being familiar with mesh bracelets in general, I decided to research the market a little. I ended up buying a few more! In the pic below I grouped the (current) meshed-up watches together for a comparison shot:
The one at the back is my trusty old Memosail chrono. The mesh is sold on the Bay as NOS original Seiko. However, the seller gives you the option of a Seiko-branded clasp or a non-signed buckle. I opted for the latter. This bracelet is pre-shaped from the lugs to about 50% of the lenghth each side, meaning it doesn't conform to your wrist on the sides. Surprisingly comfortable to wear, and very well finished, with the top surface of the mesh heavily polished to secure a flat wire surface, and the edges beveled. Normal Oyster style clasp secures it. I like the retro look and style of this bracelet, and at $15 you can't go wrong!
Next up is the tourbillon two-tone I posted yesterday, with the Omega mesh. This bracelet simply oozes quality: in looks, feel and finish. It is amazing how it brings the right watch to life like no other strap can. Obviously the best of the bunch by far. The safety belt-style buckle works very well. Fortunately I don't need the (optional) extension piece for my 7" wrist, so fits my wrist like a dream. It also means there is no overlap on the inside of the wrist, making it even more comfortable. This is definitely the most comfortable metal bracelet I have ever worn.
In the middle is my Montblank Timewalker on a mesh strap I also picked up on the Bay. I didn't expect much for................$10.............yes, you read correctly- but this turned out to be a real surprise. The bracelet is very well made, thinner wire than the Omega, but very well finished with a double foldover clasp for securing it. On the downside, the bracelet is a bit too long on the adjustable side, with the result that the overlap tends to show from under the strap under your wrist. Not a big deal, but something Omega cleverly prevents by using an extension piece. I also quite like the end piece at the lugs, even though it probably hides the crudeness of the finish.....
The last pic is of my Swiss Emperor vintage chrono on fine mesh. This bracelet is made from 0.3mm wire - a lot finer than the others. This suits the vintage chrono very well since it is a lot more delicate. I got it from the same vendor at the sime price as the previous one. This one has a single foldover clasp and also some overlap as mentioned above, but being a lot lighter it doesn't move as much.
I know some purists will frown on the cheaper mesh, but believe me I was pleasantly surprised at the quality. It certainly is excellent value, and if you like mesh, go for it!
Your comments appreciated as always.
Please excuse the quick cellphone pics!