Watch Bracelets: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

What are the best and worst watch bracelets? The team shares their thoughts on this edition of the Great Watch Debate. Shop pre-owned watches at www.bobswatches.com
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The Great Watch Debate is a regular series on the Bob’s Watches KZbin channel that tackles the topics collectors are most passionate about. This week, the spotlight is on the industry's worst and best watch bracelets.
Find links to buy the watches featured in this video below.
WRIST CHECK
Ripley’s Wrist Check: Rolex GMT-Master II White Gold Meteorite Pepsi ref. 126719
Find the Rolex 126719 for sale here: www.bobswatches.com/rolex-gmt-master-ii-ref-126719-18k-white-gold.html
Emily’s Wrist Check: Patek Philippe Complications 18k Yellow Gold ref. 7121
Find the Patek Philippe 7121 for sale here: www.bobswatches.com/patek-philippe/patek-philippe-complications-18k-yellow-gold.html
Justin’s Wrist Check: Rolex Datejust 41 Ref 126334 Green Motif Dial
Find the Rolex 126334 green fluted dial for sale here: www.bobswatches.com/rolex-datejust-41-ref-126334-green-motif-dial.html
JUSTIN’S PICKS
BEST: Tudor Pelagos Ref. 25600TN
Find the Tudor 25600TN for sale here: www.bobswatches.com/tudor/tudor-pelagos-25600tn-titanium.html
The Tudor Pelagos is the brand’s dedicated titanium diver, except for a few special edition carbon composite models. The accompanying bracelet features three-piece links in lightweight titanium to match the case and a folding clasp with Tudor’s patented extension system.
WORST: Panerai Luminor 1950 Ref. PAM328
Find the Panerai PAM328 for sale here: www.bobswatches.com/panerai/panerai-luminor-1950-pam328.html
The oversized, lever-activated crown guard is one of the Luminor’s most emblematic design elements, which Panerai has cleverly incorporated into the shape of the bracelet links on this model.
RIPLEY’S PICKS
BEST: Rolex Submariner Ref. 16610
Find the Rolex 16610 for sale here: www.bobswatches.com/rolex-submariner-16610-steel-oyster.html
The three-link Oyster bracelet, developed and patented by Rolex in 1947, is one of the most iconic and imitated bracelets in watchmaking. It is a cornerstone of the brand and an option on nearly every watch Rolex produces, including both sports and dress watches. Features include flat links and often an Oysterlock clasp.
WORST: Men’s Breitling Bentley Ref. AB061112/BC42
Find the Breitling AB061112/BC42 for sale here: www.bobswatches.com/breitling/mens-breitling-bentley-black.html
Breitling developed the “Pilot Bracelet” in 1991, featuring 5-piece links in steel, two-tone, or gold. Most watches have a high-polished finish, but there are also examples of the Breitling Pilot bracelet in a brushed finish.
HONORABLE MENTION: EMILY’S PICKS
BEST: Rolex Presidential ref. 278288
Find the Rolex 278288 for sale here: www.bobswatches.com/ladies-rolex-president-278288-yellow-gold.html
The Rolex President is one of the Crown’s most exclusive bracelets. It appears only on the Day-Date and some editions of the Lady-Datejust in precious metal. The bracelet is distinguished by rounded three-piece links and often features an Oysterclasp or a sleek hidden Crownclasp.
WORST: Rolex Pearlmaster ref. 81358
Find the Rolex 81358 for sale here: www.bobswatches.com/rolex-datejust-81358-18k-yellow-gold-pearlmaster.html
The eponymous Pearlmaster bracelet, developed exclusively for the collection and released in 1992, is always crafted from precious metals. It features rounded, five-piece links and is often decorated with diamond embellishments.
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[@dannyg6592]

I am wearing my green dial OP36 today, which happens to have my favorite bracelet. This Rolex Oyster bracelet fits my wrist like it was custom made for me - it is the most comfortable bracelet of any watch in my collection. The 20mm - 16mm taper is my favorite taper, the bracelet links are robust, solid and very comfortable, the clasp is perfect - superb in its operation, yet not overcomplicated, and the Easylink 5mm extender works perfectly when my wrist expands. I am also a big fan of Rolex's jubilee and president bracelets.

[@bobswatches]

Your green dial OP36 sounds like a perfect fit, especially with the way you describe the Oyster bracelet. That taper and solid construction really do make a difference, and the Easylink is such a game-changer for comfort. The Jubilee and President are classics too-Rolex really knows how to nail bracelet design!

[@Jstatham1979]

If we’re being real; the Oyster bracelet without a glidelock is not that great. The quick “extension” on the Explorer for instance is way too big. No reason why Rolex shouldn’t have a glidelock-type adjustment on all oyster or jubilee models.

[@jeremydahm2124]

I will say though the oyster is very comfortable on the gmt and exp39. I find the extension very useful but you need to start off with good sizing.

[@bobswatches]

You make a solid point! The lack of a Glidelock on some Oyster bracelets can be a downside, especially when you're looking for that perfect fit. The quick extension on the Explorer can feel excessive, and having that micro-adjustment feature would greatly enhance the wearability of all Rolex models. It would be great if Rolex offered that flexibility across their entire lineup-comfort and practicality should definitely be a priority!

[@Thomgxx100]

The blue Pelagos is the ultimate summerwatch to be worn during summer!

[@bobswatches]

The blue Pelagos is indeed a fantastic summer watch! Its vibrant blue dial and lightweight titanium case make it perfect for beach days and outdoor adventures. Plus, with its impressive water resistance, you can really enjoy it without worrying about taking it for a swim.

[@50calpulse76]

That meteorite gmt is awesome I want one

[@bobswatches]

The meteorite GMT is stunning! That dial is truly one-of-a-kind with its natural texture and pattern, making each piece unique. It’s a great combination of ruggedness with that touch of luxury.

[@dalotheman1]

For me it's a toss up between the Tudor T-Fit clasp and the Omega Seamaster Diver Extension. It's wrecked me because I look for micro adjust on anything I purchase.

[@bobswatches]

I totally get that! Once you experience a good micro-adjust system like the T-Fit or Seamaster’s extension, it’s hard to go back. That fine-tuning makes such a difference in comfort, especially with changing wrist sizes throughout the day.

[@ofiravny]

Best bracelet arguably in all the watch industry is of Audemars Piguet Royal oak

[@bobswatches]

The Royal Oak bracelet is definitely a masterpiece! Its integrated design and finishing really set it apart, making it one of the most iconic in the industry. Hard to beat that level of craftsmanship. Do you think anything comes close to it?

[@jsusna1972]

Today is a GMT Coke bezel day, on the Oyster of course. Aesthetically, it's the President for me, in any of the precious metals, but the yellow gold is classic. Justin mentioned the Deep Sea bracelet, but we didn't get to see it. Grand Seiko bracelets are knocked for not having any micro adjustment, but I got lucky in that I was able to get a great fit by removing the right number of links/half-links on my Katana, SBGA493.

[@bobswatches]

Sounds like a great day with your GMT Coke bezel! The President does have that classic elegance, especially in yellow gold-hard to beat that look. It’s awesome you were able to get a perfect fit on your Grand Seiko Katana by adjusting the links, especially since that’s often a challenge with their bracelets. 🤩

[@structurescience]

Folks, pleeeeease show close-ups of the things you're reviewing. Would have loved to see that Brietling and pearlmaster bracelet...

[@mahmoudghoneim8004]

As a user of the Pelagos i can admit that i do love it however i have to admit the bracelet while good it is not perfect, first the finish around the edges is rough and you can feel it very clearly moving your fingers over the edges , second the clasp while very functional still i see it slightly bulky than it should.

[@bobswatches]

It's great to hear you love your Pelagos! Those are valid points about the bracelet. A rough finish can definitely detract from the overall experience, especially on a premium watch. And if the clasp feels bulkier than necessary, that can impact the comfort during wear. Hopefully, future iterations address those details while keeping the robust functionality!

[@AndreaDoesYoga]

Great debate, I loved the insights on watch bracelets! 👏

[@bobswatches]

So glad you liked it! 😍

[@dielalex89]

I love when it’s all 3 of y’all - great video Rolex president bracelet and AP Royal Oak bracelet are both the best - their lack of micro adjust does suck but whatever they’re so good that I deal with it!

[@bobswatches]

So good to hear that feedback! The President and Royal Oak bracelets really are next-level, even without the micro-adjust. Sometimes, the design and feel are just too good to let those little details get in the way. Glad you're enjoying the videos! 😍

[@ListenToPowerViolence]

There's great chemistry betwee this lot.

[@teddybitner3302]

Black Bay 58 (black dial) on the infamous Tudor faux rivet bracelet. In the rotation for two years!

[@bobswatches]

The Black Bay 58 on the faux rivet bracelet has such a timeless vibe! After two years in the rotation, it’s clearly holding its own. How’s the bracelet been for you in terms of comfort and durability?

[@hoppysport2872]

Terrific episode. Totally agree on the President bracelet. Nothing better! One not mentioned is the Breitling Bullet bracelet on the Breitling Chronomat Rouleaux . Totally original and compelling. On a sub-$1,000 watch, the bracelet on the Bulova Lunar Pilot is a cross between the President and early-70s Omega Speedmaster Professional Professional. Only negative is the butterfly clasp, which I don't have an issue with.

[@bobswatches]

So glad you enjoyed the episode! The President bracelet is such an icon-elegant and comfy. The Breitling Bullet bracelet definitely gives the Chronomat Rouleaux its unique flair. And the Bulova Lunar Pilot's bracelet captures that classic vibe while being budget-friendly; the butterfly clasp might not be for everyone, but if it works for you, that’s what counts!

[@michaelbradshaw975]

You need to try these Glashutte Original Sea Q bracelet, Vacheron Overseas or the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms in steel all are exceptional in quality.

[@bobswatches]

Those are all excellent choices! The Glashütte Original SeaQ bracelet has such a refined feel, and the Vacheron Overseas is already a favorite of yours. I’ve heard great things about the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms bracelet in steel as well-Blancpain really knows how to blend luxury with a rugged dive watch aesthetic 🔥

[@9er..]

Breitling mesh bracelets are my personal favorite. I secretly prefer collecting B-lings on mesh versus adding more Rolex. The clasps Suuuuuuuck but that hasn’t stopped me.

[@warrenrhinerson6373]

All great options, but in my opinion, there are two bracelets that beat all of them. One of them, the omega, three professional steel bracelet. It is a sporty bracelet, it looks like a hybrid between a dress and sporty bracelet so it works just as well in a suit as it does with T-shirt and jeans, it has a functional extension so very cold of your jacket without significant modification or a NATO strap. It also has the fly adjustment on top of the extension. But here’s where I think it really takes the cake, unlike the oyster bracelet on the Rolex submariner and the tutor plegas , you don’t need to take the watch off to use on the fly adjustment. Are you still on this watch and I absolutely love that feature unfortunately I was forced to sell it due to some financial difficulties at the time, but I would love to get that watch back. The other one is actually not a luxury brand but a homage brand. The Melanies mesh bracelet fit the Heimdallr Seaghost. The bracelet is designed to look very similar to the no time to die see, but it’s a lot easier to adjust as all you need to do to change the sides of the bracelet, is simply open the pull the peg down out of the hole slide it to the next hole close the clasp. And this can be done without removing the watch from your wrist.

[@bobswatches]

Those are great points! The Omega 3 Professional steel bracelet is the perfect blend of sporty and dressy, with its functional extension and on-the-fly adjustment that beats even Rolex’s Oyster bracelet. The Melanese mesh on the Heimdallr Seaghost is a brilliant homage, with its easy adjustability that lets you change sizes without taking the watch off-practical and stylish!

[@michaelfortney7510]

71 Rolex 1655 Mk 1 straight seconds hand.

[@bobswatches]

Oooh! We like your style 😎

[@ChritelleLinger]

God!!! MAMACOO Who would have thought those gorgeous watches go for that low!!!

[@kyledeclemente]

Vacheron Constantin Overseas gen3 bracelet is the most comfortable I have ever worn. Hands down

[@bobswatches]

That’s high praise for the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Gen 3 bracelet! It’s known for its quality and comfort, which really makes a difference in daily wear. The combination of materials and design must contribute to that exceptional feel. Have you had a chance to wear it extensively, or is it more of a special occasion piece for you?

[@kyledeclemente]

@@bobswatches I wear it whenever I leave the house, so daily-ish

[@jeremydahm2124]

Wearing the Mark XX green. Excellent bracelet. Arguably the best. The glide lock is good but clumsy to operate (sd43). The Peli(lhd) is better in a sport clasp sense for me. The oyster on the exp39 is my most comfortable. Partly the taper, partly the soft 904 steel (that scatches easier than any watch material ive encountered). Rolex wins on fit finish , detail, and accuracy.

[@bobswatches]

The Mark XX green is a fantastic choice, and I agree that its bracelet design is top-notch! It’s great to hear you find the Explorer 39 so comfortable-those tapered Oyster bracelets really do sit nicely on the wrist. And you’re right about Rolex's commitment to fit, finish, and detail; it’s hard to beat their craftsmanship.

[@markroszkowski2537]

Good humor today! I gotta find a bloody with a full rotisserie chicken!

[@KenHarrison-si6tw]

Say it ain’t so! I love my Breitling Bentley bracelet! It folds up so nice in my golf bag!

[@bobswatches]

The Breitling Bentley bracelet definitely adds a touch of luxury, even when you're out on the course. Plus, if it folds up easily in your golf bag, it's both stylish and practical! Do you often wear it when you're golfing, or do you have a specific watch for that?

[@KenHarrison-si6tw]

@@bobswatches I don’t any traditional watch when I golf.; I reserve that for my stupid Apple Watch😂

[@kimcoulter806]

AP & Rolex Day Date bracelets rock. The Seamaster and GS (first iteration) are the poorest.

[@bobswatches]

That’s an interesting take! The AP and Rolex Day-Date bracelets do have a luxurious feel and solid construction that many appreciate. On the other hand, the Seamaster and first-generation Grand Seiko bracelets can feel a bit less refined, especially when compared to those heavyweights. It really highlights how personal preferences play a huge role in what makes a bracelet appealing!

[@kimcoulter806]

@@bobswatches nailed it

[@kimcoulter806]

@@bobswatches I’ve taken all of my SeaMasters off the bracelets and put em in rubber straps…. including solid Cedna gold blue wave dial SeaMaster. As for GS… they’ve vastly improved their bracelets in their GMT line but man… those original silver tin foil looking dial pieces had the crappiest bracelets and there are no rubber straps for em for I’m stuck with em. Luv the channel 👊🤙

[@brentmorris5156]

Cant beat the Day&Date gold Presidential…

[@bobswatches]

Agreed! A classic 🔥

[@ListenToPowerViolence]

Best bracelet in the world is Oyster with Glidelock, no fap cam

[@diefenbachfravert]

When it comes to fine imitation watches, MAMACOO delivers. I've bought from them several times, and I've never been let down.

[@9er..]

Breitling mesh bracelets are my personal favorite. I secretly prefer collecting B-lings on mesh versus adding more Rolex. The clasps Suuuuuuuck but that hasn’t stopped me.

[@bobswatches]

Breitling mesh bracelets are definitely unique and stylish, and it’s cool that you’ve got a soft spot for them! Even with those tricky clasps, it’s great that they don’t stop you from collecting. There’s something about Breitling’s design language that really pairs well with mesh, giving it that sleek, vintage feel.