JB Champion USA Expandable Mesh SS Bracelet Vintage

hmmmcamu · 2023-12-30T11:19:53Z

Explore the history of the JB Champion USA expandable mesh bracelet, a NASA-requested accessory for Omega Speedmaster and Bulova Accutron Astronaut GMT watches.

In a fascinating exploration of horological history, hmmmcamu delves into the origins and specifications of the JB Champion USA expandable mesh stainless steel bracelet. This article sheds light on its critical role in NASA's space program, offering a detailed look at the bracelet that accompanied astronauts on and off duty. Hmmmcamu's research, supported by official NASA documentation, reveals why this particular bracelet became a preferred choice for pairing with iconic timepieces like the Bulova Accutron Astronaut GMT and the Omega Speedmaster.

THE EXPANDABLE STAINLESS STEEL BRACELET SPECIFICALLY REQUESTED BY NASA TO BE PAIRED AND USED WITH THEIR WATCHES TO BE USED IN THE SPACE PROGRAM [ SEE ATTACHED COPY OF OFFICIAL NASA DOCUMENT ] ...

Originally manufactured by a company named FORESTNER [bought and took over by JB Champion USA in 1963] and sold by Forestner under the model name " KOMFIT "
it came with a spring loaded straight and / or curved [aka LONG HORN] end link that compresses to 16mm and expands to a maximum of 19mm, the curved end link with brick pattern bracelet is what NASA used.
It was eventually replaced by the Velcro strap, but it was so well liked by the NASA astronauts that you will see them worn in most archival photos of the era paired with the NASA Astronauts Bulova Accutron Astronaut GMT or Omega Speedmaster both ON and OFF duty.

Additional photos:

FORSTNER KOMFIT relaunch 20MM to16MM along side the original JB CHAMPION USA STAINLESS STEEL 19MM to 16MM

FORSTNER KOMFIT relaunch along side JB CHAMPION USA STAINLESS STEEL

Key Points from the Discussion

The original poster provided additional technical specifications for the Hook and Loop Velcro strap that eventually replaced the JB Champion bracelet, including its Federal Standard Olive Drab color (ref.# 330-70) and various MIL-spec details for the nylon tape, stitching, and non-magnetic, anti-corrosion metal loop.
A fellow collector shared a personal anecdote, highlighting the ease of adjustment and comfortable fit of the JB Champion-style clasp, noting its successful integration with a vintage dress Rolex.

The Discussion

saabman1997

Dec 30, 2023

This clasp is the easiest to adjust for proper fit. Just added it to my vintage dress Rolex.

hmmmcamu

Dec 31, 2023

Hook and Loop Velcro strap - Color- Federal Standard Olive Drab ref.# 330-70 JSC-SPEC-M1 Mil-spec (Mil-F-21840C) P/N SEB12100030 210 S/N 1124 Specs: Nylon loop tape MIL-F-21840C U.S. Defense Supply Agency stock. Velcro tape specification MIL-T-5038, stitched with V-T-295E mil-spec Nylon thread. Metal loop: Aircraft quality, non magnetic, anti corrosion Ref. Mil-S-7720A (Rev-A).

JB Champion USA Expandable Mesh SS Bracelet Vintage

THE EXPANDABLE STAINLESS STEEL BRACELET SPECIFICALLY REQUESTED BY NASA TO BE PAIRED AND USED WITH THEIR WATCHES TO BE USED IN THE SPACE PROGRAM [ SEE ATTACHED COPY OF OFFICIAL NASA DOCUMENT ] ...

Key Points from the Discussion

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