Hands-On With Straum’s New Micro-Adjust Clasp For The Jan Mayen Integrated Bracelet

Straum’s recent release of the Micro-Adjust Clasp for its bracelets is a godsend. It’s the accessory I knew I needed but perhaps not quite how much. As a proud owner of a Jan Mayen Fratello Limited Edition, I was excited to see how this upgrade would enhance the watch’s overall experience. Spoiler alert: it does not disappoint.

Out of the box, the Micro-Adjust Clasp arrives in a small metal tin that fits snugly into the Straum-branded accessory case included with all Jan Mayen watches. This thoughtful touch underscores Straum’s attention to detail, and it’s well appreciated. Installing the clasp on my Jan Mayen was straightforward thanks to the included pin-and-collar system and the bracelet tool that also came with the watch. Once in place, the clasp is almost indistinguishable from the stock butterfly clasp. Its minimalist design perfectly integrates with the bracelet, maintaining the sleek and robust aesthetic that defines Straum’s design DNA.

Straum’s impressive design and build quality

Crafted from 316L stainless steel, the clasp combines bead-blasted, brushed, and polished finishes that perfectly match the bracelet’s original textures. Straum’s reputation for high standards is evident here — the machining is precise, the tolerances are tight, and the overall finish is flawless.

A quick visual reminder of the Straum × Fratello Jan Mayen Limited Edition

One of the clasp’s most notable aspects isn’t obvious until you get it on the wrist. Impressively, it adds the required micro-adjust functionality without sacrificing any of its design integrity. Even with the additional micro-adjustment mechanism, the clasp remains slim and discreet and doesn’t disrupt the continuous visual harmony of the bracelet. Knowing Lasse and Øystein’s personalities and background in industrial design, I’m sure this was paramount during the design phase.

Micro-adjust done right

Straum’s Micro-Adjust Clasp provides up to 4mm of on-the-fly adjustment, split into three positions (2mm on each side). This may not sound like much on paper, but it makes a difference in practice. It offers the perfect amount of adjustment to combat wrist swelling/shrinking. The dual push buttons operate the adjustment mechanism, engaging a comfortingly secure and precise ratchet system.

Unlike friction-based designs that can slip or feel imprecise, this ratchet mechanism locks firmly into place, ensuring a reliable fit throughout the day. The push buttons are intuitive, requiring only a light two-finger pinch to activate. This makes resizing quick and effortless whether loosening the bracelet on a hot day or tightening it for a snug fit during more active moments. I was especially impressed by how the mechanism prevents accidental activation, a problem plaguing other systems I have tried. Despite the buttons’ proximity to the clasp’s main release buttons, I never found myself accidentally activating the wrong ones.

On the wrist, the Straum Micro-Adjust Clasp offers comfort and versatility

Wearing the Jan Mayen with the new clasp was a revelation. OK, that’s a slight exaggeration, but I wondered why Straum didn’t release this clasp ages ago. Micro-adjust resolves the one minor niggle I had with the watch. The ability to make minor adjustments without tools significantly improved the overall comfort, especially during longer wear sessions. Straum’s inclusion of two longer links already allowed for a decent level of sizing flexibility, but micro-adjust adds another layer of precision. Together, they provide a nearly bespoke fit that accommodates subtle changes in wrist size throughout the day. When the Jan Mayen debuted, the lack of a micro-adjust feature was a sticking point for many enthusiasts. This new clasp effectively silences those criticisms, making the Jan Mayen a more versatile and user-friendly watch.

A practical evolution

Straum’s clear goal with this clasp was to enhance functionality without compromising its minimalist ethos. I can confidently say the brand has succeeded brilliantly in this. The clasp adds meaningful utility without unnecessary bulk or complexity. While that should be obvious, it doesn’t always happen this way in reality. It’s a logical evolution that reflects Straum’s Norwegian design philosophy — functionality that complements rugged, understated beauty. Another win is that this clasp is compatible with all previous Straum bracelets. Whether upgrading an existing Opphav or Jan Mayen or enhancing a new purchase, this micro-adjust clasp is an easy recommendation.

Straum Micro-Adjust Clasp price and availability

The Straum Micro-Adjust Clasp is priced at €120 (ex. VAT), a relatively affordable upgrade considering the quality of the materials and the precision engineering involved. It’s available for pre-order now on the Straum website, with deliveries expected to begin in April 2025. Given its versatility and the level of fit and finish, the price feels justified for what it brings to the table (or the wrist).

Straum’s focus on intuitive operation, sleek design, and secure mechanisms makes this clasp a standout product among the brand’s watch accessories. I like to see a brand take the time to do things correctly, and that’s exactly what Straum has done with the new Micro-Adjust Clasp and the Strap Adaptors. Whether you’re a current Jan Mayen owner or considering a Straum watch for the first time, the Micro-Adjust Clasp is a worthy investment.

I fully expect to see further thoughtful additions to the brand’s accessory lineup over the coming months/years. Do you have any suggestions on what you’d like to see next? The guys read your comments, so let them know what you’re after!