Since launching in 2017, MING has been shaking up the watch industry with its unique design language that combines classical cues with futuristic styling. Not only that but the Malaysia-based watchmaker is no stranger to innovative manufacturing techniques, like we’ve seen with its 37.02 Minimalist, which featured the first-ever white-colored lume.
Now, MING has looked below the case to the watch’s strap, with a new material that employs 3D-printing methods for a new level of comfort.
Metal That Moves Like Fabric
Traditional watch straps force you into a binary choice: go with leather or rubber for suppleness, or choose a metal bracelet for that cool, sturdy feel. MING’s Polymesh throws that limitation out the window. Built from 1,693 individual titanium links that hook together without pins or screws, this bracelet-strap hybrid drapes across your wrist more like fabric than metal. The secret lies in the engineered topology, with more flexibility built into the radial axis than the lateral one — keeping the watch secure while allowing the strap to flow naturally with your wrist’s movements.
And instead of the traditional bracelet sizing system, the Polymesh uses holes and a tang buckle, just like a fabric strap. You’re not adding or removing links; you’re simply buckling it to fit. The integrated buckle and hinges come formed during the same 3D printing process as the rest of the strap, with quick-release spring bars being the only component requiring assembly.
Manufacturing Pushing Design Forward
The Polymesh couldn’t exist without recent advances in additive manufacturing. MING partnered with Sisma S.p.A. in Italy and ProMotion SA in Switzerland to tackle some serious technical challenges. Working with powdered grade 5 titanium is no joke — the material is highly explosive if not handled in an inert gas environment during sintering. The distances between individual parts measure as tight as 70 microns, and each bracelet requires several hundred layers of sintering over several hours. After printing, technicians hand-finish each piece to remove surface imperfections and ensure smooth articulation.
The grainy texture that comes with 3D-printed titanium might not appeal to everyone, but it’s worth noting that MING is developing a stainless steel version that could offer a more polished aesthetic.
Spec Sheet
Model Name: MING Polymesh
Material: Powder bed laser sintered grade 5 titanium
Construction: 1,693 subcomponents in one-piece design
Lug Width: 20mm (22mm in development)
Strap Length: Fits 6.0″-8.1″ wrists on 38mm case
Features: Integrated tuck buckle system, curved quick-release spring bars
Pricing & Availability
The MING Polymesh in grade 5 titanium is available now for CHF 1,500 (~$1,866) through MING’s website. Prototypes will be on display at WatchTime New York from October 17-19, and at Dubai Watch Week from November 19-23. Stainless steel and 22mm versions are currently in development.
Recap
MING Polymesh Titanium Watch Strap
MING just dropped the Polymesh, a 3D-printed titanium bracelet-strap hybrid that’s made from 1,693 interlocking links and drapes like fabric while still feeling like metal.
