Milanese or mesh strap watches are currently having a moment, and not only due to their striking aesthetic.

Most brands formulate their mesh straps with comfort in mind; links are streamlined to sit on the wrist so the more hirsute of our kind can breathe a sigh of relief – tugs and nips are a thing of the past. Sharp, simple and comfortable, the mesh strap really is an unsung horological hero. Here’s our round-up of the best options on the market, at every level.

Affordable

As always, affordable or ‘budget’ watches are rarely match the costs of their clothing counterparts. However, they will still deliver a healthy cost per wear, especially if you opt for a versatile design that can adapt to any occasion. Here are some of our favorites under £300:

The CM (£225) by Larsson and Jennings has quickly become an iconic timepiece for a relatively young brand. A metal mesh strap complements the already steel-focused design, giving it a slightly industrial edge:

British watchmaker Shore Projects is renowned for its pared-back, minimal timepieces, and the Cowes (£135) – from the brand’s new Project 2 collection – is no different.

Like the Liten, a classic round face is given a modern twist by the fine-knit Milanese strap:

Mondaine is widely considered the most accessible Swiss watch brand, thanks in no small part to affordable designs like the Helvetica Mesh (£295).

A polished stainless steel has been utilised for the strap, helping create a contemporary statement on the wrist:

The Skagen Ancher (£139) is essentially the IKEA of watches: Scandinavian, good value, sleek design and packed full of stainless steel.

A fantastic choice for an everyday timepiece:

Mid Range

Mesh strap watches that sit in the mid-price range tend to offer superior materials and, indeed, more comfort on the wrist. You’ll be forking out a couple of hundred more but you can often guarantee increased longevity and an expertly crafted movement: