As I have written about in the past on this site, I am overall at odds with the stock steel bracelet that the Tudor BB58 comes on. I don’t like the rivets, nor the clasp, nor the lack of micro adjustments. I find it heavy and uncomfortable, and it’s always either a hair too big or too small, no matter how I configure the links. Alas, other than the obscenely over-priced (on the secondary market) Submariner, there is no better alternative for such a dive watch. And so the search for great alternative bracelets is a reality for many BB58 owners.
I don’t know where I first heard about Uncle Seiko or Forstner Bands, but I was excited to try them both. They are both exactly what we have been describing. They are not Nato or fabric straps, but integrated, custom-milled metal bracelets specifically designed for the BlackBay line. Are they as high quality and precisely engineered as the Tudor bracelet? No, not even close. But they are quite high quality enough for my money, and are, in the end, worthy of being affixed to the BlackBay.
I opted for the Jubilee from Forstner and the President’s Bracelet from Uncle Seiko. They are both nicely made, hyper adjustable, and quite comfortable — the latter things one cannot say about the Tudor bracelet. They also do not have ugly rivets (ahem). Is there something a bit… surreal? about seeing the BlackBay on a Jubilee-style bracelet? Yeah, there is. Not going to deny that. But whether that looks good or bad to your eye is entirely personal preference. I will not allow for these objective proclamations that BlackBay watches simply cannot live on any metal strap but Tudor’s. Nonsense! I actually think they look quite nice, each in their own way. It’s unique, special, different, and actually classes up the watch quite a bit, allowing it to more easily be worn with suits, in this author’s humble opinion.
Personally, I think the Forstner bracelet is better made. A bit more precise and substantial feeling in the hand, and a touch less “clinky”, if you follow my meaning. The edges are also less sharp and just feels like a more premium product. I can now only hope and pray that either of these companies releases a true Oyster-style bracelet sans-rivets, and then I might finally be truly happy (with my BlackBay, that is).