What's the fascination with Gay Freres bracelets?

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 :

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.

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

Here’s my Camaro on GF double grain