Ming Unveils Revolutionary 3D-Printed Titanium Bracelet

Independent watchmaker Ming Thein has introduced an innovative solution to a long-standing issue in the world of wrist accessories: the balance between durability and comfort. The new Polymesh bracelet, crafted from grade 5 titanium, represents what appears to be the first fully 3D-printed titanium bracelet. This unique piece consists of 1,693 individual links, flowing seamlessly like chain mail while offering the comfort akin to a well-worn leather strap.

The Polymesh stands apart in its manufacturing process, utilizing advanced technology to create a single structure that requires no assembly. According to Thein, “Unlike conventional mesh where each individual link is made separately and then joined together, all of our links are basically sintered together as one piece.” This innovation is made possible through a collaboration with Italian firm Sisma S.p.A and Swiss company ProMotion SA, who provided the technology necessary for the intricate design.

Revolutionary Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing technique involves a powder bed machine that fuses microscopic titanium particles layer by layer using precise laser sintering. The complexity of this process is underscored by the need to operate in an inert gas environment to prevent the titanium powder from combusting when exposed to air.

The Polymesh also includes a fully integrated buckle, a feature that further distinguishes it from traditional bracelets. The buckle is printed as part of the original structure, incorporating a flexible articulation system that eliminates the need for separate components typically held together by pins or screws. This innovative design not only simplifies assembly but also enhances the overall functionality of the bracelet.

The intricate design poses significant challenges; some internal clearances measure less than 70 microns, nearing the limits of what laser sintering can achieve. The development process involved numerous trials, with over seven failed attempts before the team found a successful geometry that met both aesthetic and functional requirements.

Combining Comfort with Durability

Ming’s design philosophy centers around solving the inherent problems faced by watch enthusiasts who prefer leather straps. While leather offers comfort, it deteriorates over time, leading to the frustration of finding the perfect fit that cannot be replicated. In contrast, metal bracelets provide longevity but often lack the organic feel of leather. The Polymesh seeks to merge these characteristics by acting like a hybrid material, offering the rigidity of metal while maintaining superior flexibility.

The tactile experience of the Polymesh is likened to that of fabric, with a draping quality that allows it to conform to the wearer’s wrist without the need for adjustment. This passive adaptability addresses the common issue of discomfort caused by traditional bracelets that require constant readjustment as the wrist changes size throughout the day.

Ming emphasizes the importance of experiencing the bracelet in person, stating, “To experience it, to understand it, it’s best to see it in person.” Early feedback from those who have interacted with the prototype has highlighted the unique sensation of wearing metal that moves and feels like fabric, creating an unprecedented sensory experience.

The Polymesh is priced at CHF 1,500 and is currently available in a 20mm width. A 22mm version is in development, along with plans for a stainless steel variant that may offer a different aesthetic while maintaining the innovative manufacturing approach.

Ming’s work not only represents a significant advancement in the use of 3D printing within the watch industry but also marks a departure from traditional manufacturing methods. By creating a fully articulated bracelet with integrated components, Ming has opened up new possibilities in the realm of wrist accessories, appealing to consumers seeking both functionality and innovative design.