Forstner Band Flat Link Bracelet for the Speedmaster Moonwatch Unboxing | JB Champion

[@jefft5789]

Thanks for showing how to align the spring bars

[@alfredfrome9455]

Normally I would not buy a non OEM bracelet but this has history with the watch and a good option as an alternative to a leather strap I had never heard of this brand so thanks for the video.

[@MichaelSmith-fn1ci]

Andy, nice bracelet it looks amazing on the Speedy. The only negative would be the clasp, when opened it doesn’t look particularly substantial. Also nice to see you back with a vid….it’s been a while😊

[@TheEnglishWatch]

Thanks Michael. The clasp is a little ‘old fashioned’, but you don’t find yourself looking too often.

[@tiffer67]

Andy thank you for this clip. Yesterday I purchased the flat link bracelet from Forstner & to be honest I had no idea what to expect from it. My Speedmaster is the same as yours. I have never kept the bracelet on the watch, preferring a rubber strap in the main. I have however always longed for the flat link bracelet, it looks so much better. Seeing it on your watch confirms what a good decision it was to buy it yesterday, albeit it's now $200 inc shipping to the UK. I can see my Speedmaster getting more time on the wrist than in recent months :)

[@TheEnglishWatch]

Great to hear. Shame about the exchange rate.

[@troller3155]

I’m about to order one for my WatchCo Seamaster 300 and since watching your review have decided on the polished and brushed version, so thanks Andy.

[@tes77a]

I have exactly the same Forstner bracelet which I wear on my 145.022-69 from 1970. It has the right vintage look and feel, and is very comfortable to wear 👍 I have to say it was the biggest pain in the arse to adjust of any bracelet I’ve ever bought, yours looked a lot easier 🤷‍♂️

[@TheEnglishWatch]

Believe me, I cut a lot of film out. It was a pain in the arse, but the end was satisfying.

[@tes77a]

@@TheEnglishWatch Glad to know I'm not the only person to struggle adjusting the Forstner.

[@Eric_Nielsen]

I was wondering why these cost more than the Uncle Seiko flat link, now I see why, thank you !!

[@robynsjp]

Those stretch links near the clasp are delicate.

[@Moonshine2301]

Thank‘s for the video! you‘re doing a great job every time! I purchased the similar OEM 50th aniversary bracelet and fitted it to my 1861 speedy a few months ago. The bracelet totally changes the looks of the watch, looks just amazing. Haven‘t put on the standard bracelet since. So if the clasp bothers you, just get the OEM. Had to modify the end links slightly to make it fit but that was not too difficult to do.

[@chrishennemeyer7276]

I wear my Seamaster Professional on the same Forstner model. Very nice bracelet indeed.

[@Mr-Merchant.]

I think I would rather keep my original Omega bracelet on my watch (311.30.42.30.01.005 ), as I don't think forstners quality is on part with Omegas. For anyone reading this you might be better off putting the money to an adjustable Omega clasp upgrade for the Speedmaster. For Ref: Clasp - 117STZ001154 End links - 118STZ000015. Interesting and enjoyable video regardless, always great info on this channel. Thanks for the polyimide tape tip Andy, I have been using it on all my watch lugs.

[@Copaindesmontres]

I have just discovered you channel, really clean review. I think I'm going to have one of these.

[@chuckg322]

Andy, interested in your thoughts on Forstner's new bullet bracelet, should you happen across one.

[@Watchatete]

Was interested in buying the Forstner flatlink bracelet. Will donow. Very good and timely vid.

[@adbraham]

When you removed links, did you leave all the elasticated links on the bracelet?

[@TheEnglishWatch]

Yes. They offer a nice bit of stretch when my wrist swells.

[@jasonhoare4080]

Good-looking strap-on a classic watch. Great video

[@williamotto2725]

I was thinking about changing the bracelet that came with my new Speedmaster Moonwatch Pro to the flat linked bracelet on the 50th anniversary Speedy. Would that bracelet increase the lug to lug…would the bracelet drop straight down or stick out more. The Pro looks okay on my skinny wrist but I don’t want any overhang. Thanks for any thoughts

[@TheEnglishWatch]

These bracelets have articulated end links so will pull straight down over the wrist. I’m now using an Uncle bracelet and really enjoy it..unclestraps.com/en-gb/collections/speedmaster/products/us1479-omega-speedmaster-bracelet-20mm

[@winamelo]

Thanks.! Your bracelet looks great

[@MKGamingInvesting]

Which springbar tool did you use?

[@TheEnglishWatch]

Follow the link in the description or just head straight to my Amazon store linktr.ee/theenglishwatch

[@HAL-xy3om]

Beautiful band!

[@Luciano-kq3xz]

Hi Paul, is it true that this model of bracelet has elasticized links near the clasp that make it comfortable even with changes in temperature? did you feel the difference?

[@TheEnglishWatch]

If you get the old style clasp it does have elasticated links which do make a small difference, but I don’t miss it in my other watches. The new, solid clasp doesn’t have these links. The name’s Andy btw 😉

[@Audittr2108]

Cheers Andy. I have those same strap tweezer thingys and move the strap to the watch rather than the watch to the strap like you did. Much easier! The bracelet looks good on the Speedy. I have the same model and rarely wear on the bracelet and wear on a black sailcloth type instead. Funnily enough very similar to Omega now supply the new model on but I was wearing it first!

[@simonelliott5956]

Great video, thanks

[@mmadchef808]

Any idea if this would fit the Aqua Terra? Thanks in advance.

[@TheEnglishWatch]

Sorry, I’m not sure. It’s a 20mm lug width, but not all lugs are drilled the same. Maybe Forstner would know.

[@mmadchef808]

@@TheEnglishWatch Will look into that. Thanks for your reply!

[@markodell2379]

I bought the Uncle Seiko version and was bit disappointed. About the same time ended up getting the 60th Anniversary Speedy with the flat link, not tapered but ticks the box. I am awaiting the 3861 bracelet to put on my 1861, a bit spendy but gotta pay to play in this game. I am hoping that one being vintage-inspired but still produced by Omega will content me. I have considered upgrading the entire watch to the 3861 but the bracelet does seem to be the most impressive bit of the new design.

[@TheEnglishWatch]

Yes, spendy about sums this ‘hobby’ up.

[@krackpot_]

Did you end up with the brushed or polished mid link version of the 3861 bracelet?

[@mauriciolguin]

I also was absolutely disappointed with the Uncle Seiko. Don't recommend it at all.

[@Seikoholic1973]

Amazing looks. Any idea if the clasp can be swapped with the original Omega Speedmaster Professional clasp? Thanks.

[@TheEnglishWatch]

I don’t I’m afraid. Worth trawling the Omega forums. I think the genuine clasp is available, but pricy.

[@jasonryan9129]

Hi Andy, great video - Amy idea if this 21mm Forstner's bracelet will fit on an El Primero 42 mm (lug width is 21mm)...thanks for any feedback!

[@TheEnglishWatch]

Thanks. I don’t know if this will fit. Worth asking the Forstner guys.

[@paulcorner190]

Hi Andy, Love watching the videos and the reasoning and explanations for choosing what watches and straps you own. I have the same moonwatch and would like to buy the same bracelet; Can I just ask, did you consider going for the contemporary bracelet and if so what was the reason for choosing the original. Was it comfort or keeping it authentic? also are you still OK with the clasp or would you prefer the milled version Forstner sell if buying again? many thanks Paul

[@TheEnglishWatch]

Hi Paul. I fancied the flat link as it was close to the original and Apollo 11 50th. I have to say, the old clasp is a little bit of a nail catcher, so would recommend going for the milled clasp. I have no experience with it mind, but hear it’s good.

[@seanhammond4527]

Very very smart still want a blue rubber strap 🤣🤣

[@diyounes]

Hi Andy, I didn't find any follow-up on your forstner bracelet experience! I was curious what are your feeling after having worn it for some time! Especially that I cant see any mention of it in all of your later video's!

[@TheEnglishWatch]

Hi Dory. I’ve worn it a number of times, including in my latest video. I like it, the clasp is flimsy, but that’s the vintage feel. Once it’s on you forget the clasp anyway as it’s so light on the wrist. You can buy a more robust clasp now, but I haven’t tried it out.

[@diyounes]

@@TheEnglishWatch thanks Andy for the great feedback and best wishes on your futur watch endeavor 😉

[@edk2221]

Great to see a new video by you! Cheers

[@johnnorth2851]

Andy - great vid as ever - i’ve ordered one foe my speedy - but you mention rubber straps at the beginning ? i have the co axial speedy dual register and am sick of the leather but can’t find an integrated rubber option at 21mm foe the deployment clasp any ideas appreciated 👍 ps - the forstner is for my 1861 speedy

[@TheEnglishWatch]

It’s tough to find a 21mm integrated rubber. The best bet is to ask your local AD. They have a catalogue of straps, including some from discontinued ranges. That’s where I got the one for my Planet Ocean. If you’re after 20mm, the choices are much easier to come by. 21mm is a pain.

[@johnnorth2851]

@@TheEnglishWatch Thanks Andy - will do and report back !!

[@briandeguzman8978]

I love the bracelet. It gives the whole watch more vintage feel. I think being lighter and the springs will make it more comfortable to wear. I just wish that they left out the logo off the clasp. Can the clasp from the original be swapped for this one?

[@TheEnglishWatch]

I have seen this done, but an original clasp would be pricey.

[@TinBin-Craig]

very nice strap,,, looks good... and nice price... cheers

[@zubairhassan9827]

Great video! Did you consider going for the uncle Seiko version of this band? It seems to be similar quality but much cheaper

[@TheEnglishWatch]

I did, but the Forstner history swung it.

[@Dr_LK]

After looking for 3 years for the perfect strap for my 1861 (nato, leather, rubber, ...), because I hated the original omega bracelet instantly, I ended up with an uncle Seiko flat link with hollow end links. Amazing. For the last few weeks I’ve been wearing my speedmaster as if it is newly purchased ! Fantastic vintage feeling, it really takes you back to the 60’s - 70’s. Quality is excellent, especially for the price point. Every time I check the time I smile. I haven’t tried forstner, but even they by now there is no true historical connection with the original company. So maybe you can also try uncle Seiko?

[@essexwatchenthusiast9888]

Love your tutorials but I can not bring myself to look past OEM. Enjoy your day out at the LWS.

[@timwainwright8512]

Hi Andy. Based on your review I bought one of these for my speedy in Dec. Issue is that the end links don't seem to fit super snug (1 or 2 mm of play). I have emailed Forstner a number of times over the last month but no answer to my emails! Maybe still on hols? Anyway, getting a bit concerned as no reply and think they may have sent 19mm end links by mistake. What's your experience when fitting on your watch? Regards Tim

[@TheEnglishWatch]

I think you could be right. I have no issue with fit of the end links on my version. Keep trying. I’m sure they’ll be in touch. I also image they have a returns policy.

[@timwainwright8512]

@@TheEnglishWatch Thanks Andy, (I have not installed yet - only placed to try ready for installation if you know what I mean.) I expect these end links to be be snug as per strapcode end links etc and these are not. So you had no play on the end links before you installed?

[@TheEnglishWatch]

Just checked. The end links are pretty snug to the lugs. Maybe 0.2mm gap.

[@timwainwright8512]

@@TheEnglishWatch Thanks Andy. I'm sure Forstner will help out and rectify any issues.

[@verykeen2please]

Andy another interesting video. I love your patience doing this, which i just dont have, but do have a friendly local jeweller that does then FOC It looked like the new bracelet had one of those cheap pressed clasps you get on a Seiko? A bit of a hair nipper?

[@TheEnglishWatch]

Haha. It is cheap, but my hairs have not been bothered too much. It’s just a bit of fun.

[@verykeen2please]

@@TheEnglishWatch enjoy and will look forward to the next video

[@TerenceHughes4501]

Omega Speedmaster rocks 😎

[@cedarcanoe]

An elastic metal bracelet. My grandpa used to have one I remember. Curious how it wears.

[@TheEnglishWatch]

It wears ok. Only a few links are elasticated, so not too stretchy.

[@cedarcanoe]

@@TheEnglishWatch i must try one

[@stellarboy78]

What is the name of the tool mentioned at around 10:00 please?

[@Ferien7]

Pliers

[@Valisk]

Great video - thanks for the info. I'm torn between the Forstner flatlink and the Uncle Seiko 1450. I'm not a fan of the stock strap on the .005. I've been wearing mine on a Horween strap, but I always prefer a bracelet. Edit - the US1479 looks pretty sweet too.

[@TheEnglishWatch]

If I’m honest, this is my favourite in brown, matched with an Omega buckle. www.abpconcept.paris/collections/bracelets-montres-pour-rolex-omega-iwc-breitling-panerai-cartier-tag-heuer-jaeger-lecoultre-iwc-hermes-zenith-audemars-piguet-patek-philippe-bell-ross/products/bracelet-montre-veau-calf-cuir-leather-watch-band-strap-classique-classic-noir-marron-gris-bleu-rouge-blanc-black-brown-grey-blue-red-white The bracelet is cool, but I have other bracelet watches. You can’t have too many options I say.

[@yavornikolov6965]

Very nice! Can you share what is your wrist size? :)

[@TheEnglishWatch]

My wrist is 6.75”.

[@edgeyt1]

I wish Omega would remake their beads of rice 1502 bracelet of the 50s/60s.

[@keltecdan]

I love the case of the new speedmaster but I don’t like that they shortened the pushers. They look too stuby.

[@stephenu8824]

Another helpful video.

[@phmwu7368]

Omega straps & bracelets offered at prices at which some people buy entire wristwatches !

[@drumdone]

I got this bracelet around a year ago, a little disappointed with it. It's very light, would prefer if it was a little more substantial, especially around the clasp it feels cheap and almost plasticky compared with the Omega original or a Rolex Oyster clasp. The screws also work themselves loose no matter how tight. The stretchy band has lost elasticity and the hollow stretch links no longer sit evenly or flat. A shame because it's an attractive bracelet which suits the Speedmaster but I'll be swapping it out for an Uncle Seiko 1479.

[@Jdinaz]

Appreciate the review. Good price but not for me. I like the look, but do not like the elastic action or the clasp. I’d be willing to pay more for this product if it were made more towards the other end of quality. Clad should be premium and I would use it even if it were not Omega marked. It’s a pass for me.

[@johnwhite.762]

The four thumbs down need to have their thumbs twisted like Speedy lugs into the up position.

[@TheEnglishWatch]

Very kind. You can’t please them all.

[@dmora2386]

The sound of that bracelet is making my cringe, it sounds so cheap! EDIT: looks good though.

[@TheEnglishWatch]

Cheap and good.

[@Nciswit1]

Why the H”&$ would one want a rubber strap for the speedy? Seamaster sure, speedy 😂

[@christianblanche1569]

Original cost of this bracelet is 5-7$, and it supposed to be sold no more than 50$. Can't believe they sell this piece of crap for 150 🤦🤦🤦 Pagani Design makes 10times better bracelets for their watches and it's 15$.

[@richierich9761]

Upgrade? I think that bracelet is a horror looks like something off AliExpress. Links are ok but the clasp is just awful.

[@TheEnglishWatch]

It’s charming, old fashioned. Cheap, yes.