I don’t get integrated bracelet watches
Can someone explain why integrated bracelet watches are better than non-integrated bracelet watches? I figure normally, if you want to wear a watch on a bracelet, you can, and if you want to swap it to a strap, having that option is a good thing. As far as aesthetics, to my eye, most good sports watches don’t look “disconnected” from their bracelets. The Submariner is a good example of this - it looks nice and uniform as is.
This gets even weirder when considering that the VC Overseas is an “integrated” bracelet watch when its bracelet is, in fact, detachable. So perhaps the first question I need to ask is what an integrated bracelet watch even is.
Anyway, I’m confused. 🤔
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Kaffee’s Bat
Welcome to my WatchCrunch profile.
Los Angeles, CA, USA
Member since
Last active: 2 hrs ago
6.75” / 17.15 cm
They aren't better, they aren't worse. They're different. Some may argue that they have a more cohesive design because the watch and bracelet were specifically designed to be worn together as a unit. But, I've seen some non-integrated bracelet watches that give off that vibe, too.
I suspect you're not as confused as you say you are and instead you just don't like them. If you don't like them, fine. You don't have to like them. You never have to buy one. That leaves more for everyone who does.
I don’t own such a watch (yet) but I believe the decision to use an integrated bracelet means the bracelet needs to be pretty amazing because you’re telling folks it’s worth not having the flexibility you’re worrying about.
I believe the PRX is so popular (besides it resembling one of THOSE watches) is because it has a bracelet that’s better finished than most Tissot bracelets.
Just my 2 cents!
I frequently swap out the bracelet on my watches but only because there's very few occasions I go to that merit the wearing of a dress watch. That said, the VC Overseas bracelet for me makes that watch, I absolutely love the intricate design. Were I to own one I doubt I'd swap out the bracelet for a strap.
Integrated bracelet means the case flows directly to the bracelet, not that it can’t be removed from the watch.
I want one
It doesn't make the watch better, it does that for the wearer...
😆😆😆
The VC has probably the most iconic integrated bracelet, stunning to look at and incredibly comfortable to wear. It comes with the leather and rubber straps so you spend the first month swapping them in and out.
Some of the more well known have several options, I expect if you own a PRX you're spoilt for choice. But some are more problematic. The Perception still doesn't have an OEM leather available. They've just updated some minor design points but still haven't provided the leather option - I don't get that decision at all.
I am an integrated fan. I also collect straps. To me it gives me a much different look from the majority of my cases and a different vibe. I think of the case shape as more protective looking and therefore more sporty.
I have a Tsuyosa, PRX and will be getting a Tudor Royal this year
If you don’t like these VC type of integration and ease of bracelet & strap changes then I feel for you not seeing the utility and ascetic charm .
It's funny how what was old became new again...
In the 1960s/1970s, intergrated bracelets were popular both for those famous luxury sports watches we all know about...but before them, the gorgeous dress watches that were made for both men and women.
Here are two of my favorite vintage "integrated bracelet" watches in the collection...
Stunning...no?