What's the fascination with Gay Freres bracelets?

[YYTIN]

Hi there

Not much to add : long history related to watches, capable of fine jewelry, invented a lot of « standards » , collaborate with the most respected brands …

here are a few articles to read (sorry the first is in French) :
https://www.lesrhabilleurs.com/2017/08/gay-freres-bracelet-montres-histoire/#optin-modal
https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/gay-freres-much-more-than-a-simple-manufacturer-of-watch-bracelets
https://bulangandsons.eu/blogs/watch-talks/gay-freres-the-bracelet-brothers
https://www.fratellowatches.com/gay-freres-the-most-impactful-parts-supplier-of-all/#gref

All in all a brand that deserve respect. After how much are you and am I ready to spend for it is another story…the same as for most watches.

and to add a picture here is my eterna bracelet :

Edited: Jun 21, 2024

 

[iChristos]

Hello,

Already a lot has been said, I bought last year a Zenith A277 without the famous GF Bracelet, I was looking for one and had the chance also to wear an A3736 with a ladder one, the confort was incredible and I really looked a lot to buy one.

Off course, price are crazy, 2k, 3k, 3,5k and then you said ok, let's go for a forstner...

Best regards,
Christos

 

[Dimitar Adamski]

Probably it is more reasonable hype than DON.

 

[Davidt]

I feel GF bracelets are generally of a superior quality to other contemporary makers. Yes the names adds kudos and the fact they’re OEM for many expensive watches so there’s the ‘rising tide lifts all boats’ but stripping all that back, they’re exceptionally well made and light. My GF double grain for my Heuer Camaro is ridiculously tight and feels new even though it’s 50 years old.

Any half arsed manufacturer can make a bracelet that feels quality when they’re using solid links and clasps. The genius of vintage bracelets is the fact they were of a high quality, robust and light. Something modern stainless steel bracelets can only dream of.

Edited: Sep 18, 2024

 

[Jkuback]

Much said already but I'd like to add my two cents:

IMHO

• First of all are vintage bracelets much more comfy than most new ones
• GF has outstanding build quality

Then:
me as a watch nerd looking for authentic pieces I want to have the period correct bracelet (=pay a premium)

But most important: where are the pics of your bespoke pieces 😁

Here is one of mine:

 

[Scarecrow Boat]

To date, this is one of my favorite bracelets I have ever owned. I loved the design, it was made well, and wore comfortably.

 

[Davidt]

Here’s my Camaro on GF double grain