Description

The Story

Forstner s stainless steel expandable mesh watch band (called the Komfit ) was one of the only watch bracelets sanctioned by NASA for use on manned space missions. It was worn by astronauts throughout the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs, and even made it to the surface of the moon. Now, after a long hiatus during which time only vintage models could be sourced at high prices, we have reissued and improved this classic watch strap.

Details

The Komfit, with its square-patterned mesh, beautifully decorated spring-loaded end pieces, and unique forward-facing clasp, has a distinctive look not available from anyone else. Made entirely of stainless steel, the band is light, breathable, and extremely comfortable, having the ability to be easily sized in micro-increments for the perfect fit.

End Piece Construction Width

Straight universal fit bar with horned ends.  End piece is spring loaded (can compress when pressed). Fits watches with 16mm, 17mm, 18mm, 19mm, or 20mm lugs. End piece fits spring bars up to 1.8mm thick.

Mesh Width

16 mm at the central mesh portion.

Length

The Komfit band is offered in two lengths: Original and Regular. The Original reflects the length once worn by astronauts over their space suits, and as a result is equivalent to a long size. The Original works best on wrists at least 7 inches (18 cm) in circumference and will fit wrists up to approximately 10 inches (25.5 cm) in circumference. The Regular was made to fit small to medium wrists, and works best on wrists between 5.75 inches (14.5 cm) and about 7 inches (18 cm) in circumference. For a wrist at 7 inches in circumference, either size will work, but we think the Original provides the best look.

Improvements

We have made several notable improvements over the vintage Komfit. First, whereas the vintage model had end pieces up to only 19mm wide, ours extends to over 20mm. As a result, the band now fits watches with more contemporary proportions, including the Omega Speedmaster Professional (the watch with which astronauts commonly paired this bracelet). Second, the mesh is now slightly wider at 16mm vs. 15mm in the vintage model, to accommodate the wider end piece. Third, the band fits more securely — whereas the clasp of the vintage versions had a tendency to slip, the clasp of the reissue has been improved to avoid this problem.

Instructions for Use

For tips on using and caring for your bracelet, click here.

Included

Internal lug protectors provided with each order.