New Forstner Model O(yster)

Posts
7
Likes
11
So I've been one of those humming and ha-ing about getting a lighter bracelet for my SMP 300m for ages. Was genuinely away to buy the Forstner 1450 - then j saw this...

I've heard good things about the new contemporary flat link with its extra weight, and as good as the 1450 looks ok, I've had reservations about it feeling too light and only coming with the press clasp as standard. This could be the solution to my problem and maybe some others looking for alternative bracelets for Seamasters and Speedys.
 
Posts
274
Likes
266
Might as well slap a 5-pointed crown on the dial and call it a day?!

The original non-tapering SMP Diver bracelet is an essential part of the watch’s design and overall ethos.

Forstner is rock solid, however, if you really want to do that. Strapcode and US have nice contemporary tapering bracelets too.
 
Posts
201
Likes
195
I don’t understand the move towards lighter and tapered designs, especially for Omega watches.
I specifically made it a point to still pick up a Speedy 1861 with the previous bracelet as opposed to the 3861 model. The new style felt unfinished and too light to me.
 
Posts
642
Likes
2,718
I don’t understand the move towards lighter and tapered designs, especially for Omega watches.
I specifically made it a point to still pick up a Speedy 1861 with the previous bracelet as opposed to the 3861 model. The new style felt unfinished and too light to me.
There is absolutely nothing worse than a oversized, chunky, heavy bracelet with zero taper.
 
Posts
274
Likes
266
There is absolutely nothing worse than a oversized, chunky, heavy bracelet with zero taper.
No taper is better than a drastic 20-16mm taper like the vintage-style Forstner in question here.

That’s like having a new BMW M3 with wooden wagon wheels.
 
Posts
1,852
Likes
2,811
I wonder if it’s possible that there’s no right answer, and it’s just a matter of opinion. But now that I write that I realize how crazy it sounds.
 
Posts
5,636
Likes
5,810
No taper is better than a drastic 20-16mm taper like the vintage-style Forstner in question here.

That’s like having a new BMW M3 with wooden wagon wheels.
Or the vintage Omega flat-link bracelets?
 
Posts
7
Likes
11
Well I've pre-ordered one - will of course update when it arrives in a couple of weeks.

For clarity, I don't hate the standard SMP bracelet, in fact I'm wearing it right now and the micro adjust is ideal but I want a slightly lighter option occasionally. This bracelet might work, or it might not.
 
Posts
7
Likes
11
Well, it arrived yesterday - definitely lighter but not 100% convinced by it yet.

Clasp is good but would want a but more weight in it for reassurance, not real sharp edges. The stretchy link does what it says but is a bit scratchy sounding when being stretched - would imagine a more premium version being a bit smoother. End link matching is slightly off, think the full matte finish is flashing with the high polished edges of the twisted lugs.

Overall it's given me what I wanted so far - a lighter bracelet alternative.
 
Posts
136
Likes
125
Looks really nice. I may try one too I’m a sucker for new bracelets and straps always searching for the next “perfect” fit
 
Posts
9
Likes
1
Well, it arrived yesterday - definitely lighter but not 100% convinced by it yet.

Clasp is good but would want a but more weight in it for reassurance, not real sharp edges. The stretchy link does what it says but is a bit scratchy sounding when being stretched - would imagine a more premium version being a bit smoother. End link matching is slightly off, think the full matte finish is flashing with the high polished edges of the twisted lugs.

Overall it's given me what I wanted so far - a lighter bracelet alternative.

Any update on how it feels? I've tried an uncle seiko bracelet but found the 20-16 tapering + jangle feeling of the bracelet a bit too odd/off to put on this watch. I wish they did a 20-18 tapering version.
 
Posts
7
Likes
11
Any update on how it feels? I've tried an uncle seiko bracelet but found the 20-16 tapering + jangle feeling of the bracelet a bit too odd/off to put on this watch. I wish they did a 20-18 tapering version.

Overall I'm pretty happy with it. It has the 20-16 taper and I agree and 20-18 would be better for the watch head. It has the milled clasp with the stretch link which you can occasionally hear being a wee bit scratchy. Weight is good enough, lighter than the OEM and I've got the adjustment down so the watch is a wee bit loose but when my wrist swells the stretchy link does what it supposed to.

Not sure it will be a forever solution but its a very nice option to have
 
Posts
897
Likes
2,821
Just ordered one of these for the 2264.50 (which its featured on via the website). Will report back on arrival.

Anyone else have the model O on a pre-2018 Seamaster?
 
Posts
2,702
Likes
3,599
No taper is better than a drastic 20-16mm taper like the vintage-style Forstner in question here.

That’s like having a new BMW M3 with wooden wagon wheels.

or maybe run flat tires?

😀