Thoughts on the Link Bracelet

Nathan King · Dec 6, 2017

I'd like to share some observations of Apple's Link Bracelet. Had somebody told me I would walk out of the Apple Store with the link bracelet I would've laughed. I swore off metal links years ago after growing tired of bands that never quite fit correctly or dug uncomfortably into my wrist. The fit and finish of the Apple Link Bracelet is excellent; there is almost no play between the links despite the modular design. Each link is narrow enough to easily tailor the fit to your wrist, and links can be removed in seconds. The edges of the bracelet are relieved just enough for comfort while maintaining an elegant hard edged look. The only minor complaint is that the finish is so smooth smudges will appear quite visible in some lighting conditions (see image). It's not an inexpensive accessory, but the clever design really does make it worthy of serious consideration.

What are your thoughts?

Lexical · Dec 7, 2017

I love my link bracelet I think it’s the best Apple Watch band. It’s comfortable, adds a nice weight and looks smart.

I’m still ecstatic that I got mine for £75!

44267547 · Dec 7, 2017

Nathan King said:
I'd like to share some observations of Apple's Link Bracelet. Had somebody told me I would walk out of the Apple Store with the link bracelet I would've laughed. I swore off metal links years ago after growing tired of bands that never quite fit correctly or dug uncomfortably into my wrist. The fit and finish of the Apple Link Bracelet is excellent; there is almost no play between the links despite the modular design. Each link is narrow enough to easily tailor the fit to your wrist, and links can be removed in seconds. The edges of the bracelet are relieved just enough for comfort while maintaining an elegant hard edged look. The only minor complaint is that the finish is so smooth smudges will appear quite visible in some lighting conditions (see image). It's not an inexpensive accessory, but the clever design really does make it worthy of serious consideration.

What are your thoughts?

As someone who owns the stainless steel link bracelet and space black stainless steel link bracelet, they are both completely ingenious designs with the removable links without any tools and it's the perfect weight. The problem is with some of the other stainless steel link bracelets on the market, is they are far too heavy. With Apple's stainless steel link bracelet, not also is it manufactured to a very high degree, but it doesn't feel overbearing in weight.

The durability of the 316 L stainless is also very good. They do scratch easily, but that's expected. But overall, the scratches blend in nicely with the brushed stainless look. My black stainless steel link does not have any scratches at all.

And yes, the price point is not cheap, but for what you're receiving, you expect only the best for something that cost $450.00

Nathan King · Dec 9, 2017

Relentless Power said:
...The problem is with some of the other stainless steel link bracelets on the market, is they are far too heavy. With Apple's stainless steel link bracelet, not also is it manufactured to a very high degree, but it doesn't feel overbearing in weight.

Agreed. It's surprisingly light and extremely comfortable!

the future · Dec 9, 2017

I don‘t wear my space black link bracelet all that often because I like to change bands daily, but every time I put it on I‘m stunned how great it actually is.

andeify · Dec 9, 2017

Nathan King said:
The fit and finish of the Apple Link Bracelet is excellent; there is almost no play between the links despite the modular design.

It ought to be for price tag! I would love it but I could only afford the Milanese Loop, which I’ve had to get replaced due to a defect.

Lexical said:
I’m still ecstatic that I got mine for £75!

How the hell did you get it for that much?

Lexical · Dec 9, 2017

andeify said:
It ought to be for price tag! I would love it but I could only afford the Milanese Loop, which I’ve had to get replaced due to a defect.

How the hell did you get it for that much?

eBay! It’s second hand but you wouldn’t know it. Perfect condition. As long as you buy from a good seller it should be fine. It’s an awesome band.

profmjh · Dec 10, 2017

You’ve paired that with the Space Grey Sport?

Nathan King · Dec 10, 2017

profmatt said:
You’ve paired that with the Space Grey Sport?

I did. Is that unusual?

profmjh · Dec 11, 2017

Nathan King said:
I did. Is that unusual?

I’m thinking of doing the same thing myself, so I’m interested to know how well they work together.

Nathan King · Dec 11, 2017

profmatt said:
I’m thinking of doing the same thing myself, so I’m interested to know how well they work together.

I like it, but I’ve never been accused of being trendy or having great fashion sense. It looks REALLY sharp with a gray or black suit but works with just about anything. I can post some images with less dramatic lighting if you want a better look.

profmjh · Dec 11, 2017

Nathan King said:
I like it, but I’ve never been accused of being trendy or having great fashion sense. It looks REALLY sharp with a gray or black suit but works with just about anything. I can post some images with less dramatic lighting if you want a better look.

I’d love to see your pictures. My Link arrives tomorrow.

I’ve tried all sorts of Apple Watch combinations in the last month trying to find something that I really liked. I tried the Hermès, the Edition, . . . yet weirdly ended up with the space grey Nike — I like the Nike watchfaces and the screen on the aluminium models is much better visually than the aluminium one. The GPS+LTE version has the sapphire back, so you’re getting something that is arguably better than the stainless steel.

Except with the sports strap, the aluminium just doesn’t feel special in any way. I’m hoping the Link strap will change that. But I’ve worried that pairing aluminium with steel will just look or feel wrong. Your original photo gives me hope . . .

Nathan King · Dec 11, 2017

I agree about the Nike faces. I do running, weightlifting and Kung Fu on a daily basis, so the Nike faces are very nice to have. Please ignore the dust (among other defects) as I cranked these out really quickly. It should give you a good idea of what the combination looks like.

profmjh · Dec 11, 2017

It looks like it might be perfect! Will have to see in real life tomorrow to be sure!

andeify · Dec 30, 2017

Arrived today a barely marked Apple link bracelet off eBay. It came from China and I won it for £45 inc delivery. It didn’t come with the original box and I’m very suspicious it could be a fake, but it’s a really good copy if it is. It’s got the usual Apple markings and it’s build quality is what you would expect from Apple. Either way I’m made up with it. I can post pics if anyone is interested.