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Did you know that there are different types of watch clasps?
An integral part of the bracelet, the clasp is a cardinal component of your watch. It affects both the appearance of your watch and the comfort of wearing it.
In this article, you’ll discover the different types of watch clasps and their properties. In doing so, you’ll be able to choose the one that’s best suited to your lifestyle, your morphology and, of course, your tastes.
The pin buckle is the most common and widespread clasp in the watchmaking world.
It consists of a metal rod system that fits into the hole. It can be easily adjusted to suit your wrist size. It’s identical to the belt system, but in a smaller format. The rectangular metal part that fits into one of the holes is called a “barb”.
This watch clasp is available for all types of bracelets except steel mesh bracelets.
Our Initium Master Watchmakers recommend this type of watch clasp for its comfort and precise adjustment, which are much appreciated. If you have slender wrists or want a bracelet that offers good support, the pin buckle will suit you perfectly.
The articulated buckle deploys when opened.
This represents a highly secure advantage for steel watches. In fact, it’s resistant and won’t open unexpectedly.
The various folding clasps all work on the same principle, whether single or double with a safety catch or invisible.
There are two types of folding clasp. With the single folding clasp, the clasp unfolds when opened and folds back on itself when closed.
The butterfly folding clasp, better known as the double folding clasp, opens in two stages with its two hinges. Inside, metal panels fold in on either side of the buckle to distribute them symmetrically.
Our Initium Master Watchmakers report that these two watch clasps are particularly popular. This is because these models are more sophisticated than the pin buckle.
However, they point out that these can sometimes cause discomfort, especially if you have small wrists. Try this type of bracelet before you buy, to make sure it’s right for you.
Leather straps are fitted with a single folding clasp or a butterfly clasp.
At first glance, this type of clasp is distinguished by a small steel pin that passes through a hole in the bracelet. The lug runs towards the inside of the bracelet, not the outside.
When you buy a new watch, it comes with the two parts of the strap not attached to each other.
There is a part that is attached to the bracelet and a removable part that is clipped to the bracelet.
This watch clasp is the same as the double folding clasp. It’s different because it also has a concealed fastener. This makes the clasp undetectable once the watch is on your wrist.
Whether single or butterfly, some models feature a safety system.
The watch closing system comes in only two forms: one or two push-buttons located on the buckle case, or the other which resembles a small flap that closes just above the buckle.
For our Initium Master WatchmakersThis protection is a welcome addition, for example, for very sporty people. What’s more, it’s a guarantee of quality, because the more the years go by, the more likely you are to lose your watch.
This type of bracelet is specific to stainless steel and Milanese link bracelets.
This sliding clasp features a self-locking system. When unlocked, it can slide over the bracelet to place it where you want it. So you can easily adapt it to your wrist size.
Slide clasps have a clip-on part, often with an additional safety feature to secure the opening.
Some watches have scratch clasps. These models are easy to use because they use two hook-and-loop fasteners, also known as Velcro.
According to our Master Watchmakers, this type of bracelet can be easily hooked onto a piece of clothing and very often detached from your wrist. These bracelets are not secure and wear out very quickly.
From buckles to hook-and-loop fasteners, we’ve studied the different types of watch clasps available on the market.
The clasp on a watch is used to open and close the bracelet, but it also plays a role in the watch’s design. In fact, it’s a real differentiating asset.
At Initium Watches, you can choose your entire watch casing as well as the buckle for your watch bracelet. From the movement to the buckle, your watch will be totally tailored to your image and criteria.