Recap – Apple Watch bands have become another cottage industry created by a technological product, second only to iPhone covers, screen covers and USB chargers. One of the most nostalgic entries in this category that I recently sent is Speidel’s Twist-O-Flex ribbon. I’ve been wearing it almost exclusively for a few weeks now and I’m ready to report it.
What is it?
An extendable metal strap for Apple Watch.
Design and features
The Speidel company has been manufacturing watch straps since 1904. By now, I think it’s safe to say that the Twist-O-Flex style, introduced in 1959, has become their most well-known product. At the time, it was available in many different finishes and styles and was promoted on TV news and on television by famous actors. They now do this for most of the most popular wearable devices, from Apple watches to FitBit devices.
When I was at today’s University, I got a watch for an occasion and I saved my money to buy a Speidel Twist-O-Flex bracelet for it. Some of my friends had one, and I envied them for their ability to have the equivalent of a spinner that the teacher could not take with him because it was only a wristwatch. I am happy to point out that the current generation is just as fun and as comfortable on the arm as the models of yesteryear.
The added advantage of this model is that instead of the crazy spring bars that all watch lovers hate, this one has a mounting bar for the Apple Watch. In-depth discussions of this feature can be found elsewhere on the Internet, which has become one of those “obvious” design features of Apple Innovation. If it takes 10 seconds to turn off your bracelet, you tend to get a lot of different bracelets because – why not?
Performance
The outside of the ribbon that was sent to me is a brushed satin metal (Aluminum?) it fits perfectly with my silver Apple Watch. (It is also available in a matte black version and a finish called silver. I don’t know if it’s polished or matte.) The inner surface is polished, which makes it feel fresh on the wrist when first used. (I wear my watch all the time, except when I take a shower or turn it on, so it must be removed at least once a day.)
When it comes to metal bands, many people are (rightly) afraid of pinching or pulling the hair on the arm. Although he’s not too shaggy a guy, I have a good arm hair. I was glad that this band had not changed from what I remember when I was a child – it does not pinch or pull hair or skin.
The only thing that irritated me was that the weight of the band makes it strangely balanced on some chargers, so you have to be careful when you turn it on. The Milanese mesh ribbon that I usually wear is more fluid and “draped” better, so it doesn’t affect as much. (making an Apple Watch work with any type of continuous bracelet without support is difficult at best.)
Originally, I was sent a strap for the smallest watch model (38-40mm). (It appears at the top of the photo in the lower left and to the right of the photo in the lower right.) When they sent the replacement for my 44mm model, I noticed that the band itself was the same width and only the fittings had been changed. Although I don’t mind, I wonder if it will make the band bigger or bulkier on a 38-40mm model? Anyway, the elastic mechanism used in the link connected to the Apple Watch cover keeps the bracelet perfectly centered at all times.
Final Considerations
The Apple Watch has transformed the wearable market. They now have more sales than the entire Swiss market, all manufacturers combined. Although it seems crazy for a product that is only in its 6th iteration, it will continue to attract old and new tape manufacturers. Personally, I am delighted to see Speidel this new technology, as well as the other fitness bands and Gadgets that are redefining our lives. If you want to associate a proven product with your new Gadget, offer a big piece of history with solid features and if you don’t have an Apple Watch, take a look at your straps for Other watches.
