As watch nerds, we can debate dials and cases until the lume fades—but it’s often the bracelet that makes the biggest difference on the wrist. They’ve come a long way from their origins as made-for-women jewellery mounts in the early 1900s, evolving into feats of micro-machined engineering. In 2025, bracelets are having a moment: integrated designs still dominate, comfort-tweaking micro-adjust clasps are everywhere, and mixed-metal link work is blurring the line between tool and jewellery. Which makes it the perfect time to talk about the ones that have truly earned icon status; here's our picks:
Rolex Oyster
The benchmark for a sports bracelet since the 1930s. Three flat, solid links, brushed for toughness or polished for flash, and an Oysterclasp with a no-fuss comfort extension. Endlessly copied, never bettered.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
Gérald Genta’s angular, faceted masterwork from 1972. Tapered links with razor-sharp bevels and satin brushing, flowing seamlessly from the octagonal bezel. A bracelet as famous as the watch it holds.
Patek Philippe Nautilus
Another Genta design, launched in 1976, with rounded central links framed by brushed outers. Less aggressive than the Royal Oak but just as recognisable — and just as chased by collectors.
Rolex Jubilee
Born in 1945 for the Datejust, this five-link charmer is soft, supple, and deceptively robust. A dressy Rolex signature that’s just as happy on a GMT-Master II as it is in a boardroom.
Rolex President
Created in 1956 for the Day-Date, worn by heads of state and cultural heavyweights. Semi-circular three-piece links in precious metal, finished with a concealed Crownclasp — the visual definition of “Rolex royalty.”
Cartier Santos
From 1904 aviation roots to a modern quick-change system, the Santos bracelet’s brushed links and polished screws are pure Cartier: elegant, confident, and unmistakable from across a room.
Vacheron Constantin Overseas
Half-Maltese-cross links that echo the brand’s logo, finished with tool-free swap systems. It’s proof you can have serious luxury and serious practicality in the same bracelet.
Omega Speedmaster Flat-Link (1171)
Lightweight, rattly, and steeped in Apollo-era charm. Vintage reissues keep the spirit alive, proving that comfort sometimes comes from simplicity.
Omega Seamaster 'Shark Mesh'
A Milanese weave built like a tank. Born in the 1970s for the Seamaster 600 Ploprof and famed for its flexibility, snag resistance, and saltwater toughness. Revived for modern Seamaster 300s and Bond’s No Time To Die watch, it’s the king of mesh bracelets.
Bulgari Octo Finissimo
Just 2.5mm thick with Y-shaped links that hug the wrist, this bracelet is a design and engineering marvel — as ultra-slim as the record-breaking watch it’s attached to.
Zenith Ladder
An open, airy 1970s design that made the El Primero even lighter on the wrist. Its gapped central “rungs” are instantly recognisable to vintage fans.
Moser Streamliner
Wave-shaped links with a lugless flow, inspired by Art Deco train design. Proof that integrated sports bracelets can still surprise in a post-Genta world.
Doxa Beads of Rice
Diving heritage with a soft, supple touch. Thick brushed outers protect polished “rice grain” centre links, offering comfort at depth and style topside.
