Men’s Watch Trend: Milanese/Mesh Straps

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Milanese or mesh strap watches are currently having a moment, and not only due to their striking aesthetic.

Most brands formulate their mesh straps with comfort in mind; links are streamlined to sit on the wrist so the more hirsute of our kind can breathe a sigh of relief – tugs and nips are a thing of the past. Sharp, simple and comfortable, the mesh strap really is an unsung horological hero. Here’s our round-up of the best options on the market, at every level.

Affordable

As always, affordable or ‘budget’ watches are rarely match the costs of their clothing counterparts. However, they will still deliver a healthy cost per wear, especially if you opt for a versatile design that can adapt to any occasion. Here are some of our favorites under £300:

The CM (£225) by Larsson and Jennings has quickly become an iconic timepiece for a relatively young brand. A metal mesh strap complements the already steel-focused design, giving it a slightly industrial edge:

Larsson and Jennings CM SILVER

British watchmaker Shore Projects is renowned for its pared-back, minimal timepieces, and the Cowes (£135) – from the brand’s new Project 2 collection – is no different.

Like the Liten, a classic round face is given a modern twist by the fine-knit Milanese strap:

Shore Projects Cowes Silver

Mondaine is widely considered the most accessible Swiss watch brand, thanks in no small part to affordable designs like the Helvetica Mesh (£295).

A polished stainless steel has been utilised for the strap, helping create a contemporary statement on the wrist:

Mondaine Helvetica Mesh Strap Watch

The Skagen Ancher (£139) is essentially the IKEA of watches: Scandinavian, good value, sleek design and packed full of stainless steel.

A fantastic choice for an everyday timepiece:

Skagen Ancher Stainless Steel Strap Watch SKW6163

Mid Range

Mesh strap watches that sit in the mid-price range tend to offer superior materials and, indeed, more comfort on the wrist. You’ll be forking out a couple of hundred more but you can often guarantee increased longevity and an expertly crafted movement:

The Uniform Wares C40 (£630) packs a punch on two fronts: the metal mesh strap is comprised of singular mirror polished links for added durability, while a monochrome dial enables this timepiece to adapt effortlessly to both smart and casual ensembles:

Uniform Wares C40

At £680, the Maurice Lacroix Eliros is an absolute steal from a brand widely lauded in the horological world.

Powered by a chronograph quartz movement, the black dial and stainless steel strap combination is undeniably timeless and masculine:

MAURICE LACROIX El1088-ss002-310 stainless steel silver bracelet watch

The Gucci G-Timeless (£625) is definitely one for the label lovers.

A fantastic choice if you desire a fashion-led watch, this crisp timepiece features a tonal dial and case, with the mesh strap bringing texture and interest to the overall aesthetic:

GUCCI Ya126301 g-timeless polished stainless steel watch

Luxury

High-end artistry demands high-end prices, but if you have the cash to splash, these watches offer the full package: looks, craftsmanship and prestige.

The IWC Portofino campaign was fronted by the likes of Christophe Waltz, Emily Blunt and Ewan McGregor, and the Chronograph Black Dial (£5,000) is every inch the luxury timepiece.

Inspired by the machinery of 1960s Italian sportscars, the Milanese strap is designed especially for a smooth finish and comfortable fit:

IWC PORTOFINO - IW391010

Commonly seen as the ‘man’s man’ luxury brand, the Breitling Transocean (£8,460) combines an imposing design with expert Swiss craftsmanship.

It probably won’t even touch water, but this dive watch could withstand even the stormiest of seas:

BREITLING TRANSOCEAN CHRONOGRAPH UNITIME - AB0510U4/BB62 152A

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