Launch delay
First things first, I know we said it will be available this week, but I’m sorry to tell you that it will not. I cannot give you an exact date, but we will update you at least a day before the release. I’ve already got an earful from my team for being overly optimistic about the delivery date from our manufacturers. It has been a painful and humbling lesson about the reality of coordinating so many things from multiple manufacturers before a product launch.
The End Link Decision Process
Since the first teaser pictures and the instructional video, we’ve had some requests to create the S1 bracelet with a female end link in the future. Believe me when I say, we did think about it well before you guys. However, after extensive testing and deliberation, our team collectively decided to go with the male end link.
Early Prototypes and Testing
Our earliest followers may recall that our very first prototype of the S1 bracelet featured a female end link. Despite the promising start, the design of the female end link did not provide the expected benefits. After rigorous testing, the male end link won the vote among our team members. The primary reason for this choice was that the solid strap bars in the female end link design did not make the bracelet sit any closer to the watch. As someone with a smaller wrist size of 6 inches, I personally tested this and found that the functionality was not significantly different. Moreover, the look of the male end link was more in line with the case shape of the watch, which ultimately led to its selection. Will we ever revisit the female end-link design in the future? Maybe.
Overcoming Design Challenges
Our journey with the S1 bracelet was filled with innovation and challenges. The first prototypes were created using 3D printed resin. The details were so precise that it sparked our ambition to try metal 3D printing. We found a manufacturer specialising in metal 3D printing, but quickly realised their smallest achievable tolerance was 0.2mm, while we needed tolerances within hundreds of a millimetre. Despite trying out their services, the results were not satisfactory even after finishing processes. I guess there is still some time till the technology becomes more viable and affordable for smaller projects.
Finalizing the S1 Bracelet
Eventually, we reverted to traditional methods. We used mold casting followed by 6-axis CNC machining, which allowed us to achieve the precise tolerances required. After quite a few tweaks, we finally had what we needed: the world’s first split end link of a solid bracelet. This allowed us to create a solid fit for fixed strap bar watches (in this case, the CWC RN Divers). These end links are secured with marine grade 1.5mm screws designed to slot right between the case and the split end-links, ensuring a solid fit with little to no movement.
The final product, the S1 Bracelet, embodies a harmonious blend of meticulous design, rigorous testing, and high-quality manufacturing. It’s not just a bracelet; it’s a testament to our commitment to excellence and our passion for creating products that opens up new possibilities.
We invite you to experience the craftsmanship and innovation behind the S1 Bracelet when it launches. Sign to the newsletter below. Not what you’re looking for? You may still want to sign up if you’re interested in what’s next.