When did metal watch bands come out?

Metal watch bands actually came out around the same time as the first wristwatches during the early 19th century. However, these first metal watch straps bore little resemblance to today’s bracelet bands. They were thicker and fastened via rivets or pegs rather than bracelet-style clasps. Modern-day bracelet bands first emerged during the 1930s and were popularized by luxury makers, including Rolex, which offered its Oyster and Jubilee watches in bracelet styles. During the 1950s, metal watch bands expanded throughout the market. In the 1970s, luxury makers like Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet began offering bracelet watches that integrated their bands into their cases for a more unified look. Find a large collection of stainless steel watches and other watches on 1stDibs.