Metal (Production and Processing)

A French startup has designed and patented the first modular watch bracelet that allows users to wear a traditional watch and a smartwatch simultaneously on the same wrist. - THE PROBLEM Millions of watch enthusiasts around the world face a daily dilemma: choosing between the traditional timepiece they love and the smartwatch they rely on for health tracking, notifications and fitness monitoring. Most alternate between the two or end up abandoning one entirely. Until this innovation emerged, no product on the market addressed this frustration. - THE PRODUCT The company’s flagship model is a precision‑engineered metal strap featuring a modular connector system that accommodates any traditional watch with an 18–24 mm lug width alongside major smartwatch platforms, including Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch, Google Pixel Watch and Whoop. Users can switch watches within seconds, adapting their wrist to any occasion while keeping their connected device active at all times. The strap is available in three finishes: brushed stainless steel, black and titanium. Retail prices range from 349 to 599 euros. The system is protected by an international patent and has received significant industry recognition, including a medal at the Concours Lépine 2025, selection for the iF Design Award and Red Dot Design Award, and an exhibition at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. - MARKET TRACTION Since launching via Kickstarter in mid‑2025, the company has delivered over 200 units to customers in more than 15 countries. International sales represent 80% of total volume, with the strongest demand coming from the United States (40%) and Asia (30%, notably Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Singapore). Revenue reached approximately 70K euros in the first six months, with a 2026 projection of 400K euros from nearly 1,000 units. COMPANY PROFILE Founded and based in the Paris region (Ile-de-France). The company operates with a lean team and a network of specialized partners for manufacturing, logistics and marketing. Smartlet is structured for international growth with a multilingual e-commerce platform supporting Japanese, Arabic, Spanish, German and French. Advantages and innovations - First and only product in its category No other product on the market allows wearing a traditional watch and a smartwatch simultaneously on the same wrist. this company did not enter an existing market - Patented modular system The strap is built around a universal connector architecture that supports any traditional watch from 18 to 24 mm and any major smartwatch platform (apple watch, samsung, google pixel, whoop). one bracelet, endless combinations. users can switch from one watch to another in seconds without tools. this modularity is protected by a patent and was recognized with a medal at the concours lépine 2025. - Design as a core differentiator This is not a gadget but a premium watch accessory designed to meet the aesthetic standards of watch enthusiasts - Universal compatibility With coverage of over 90% of traditional and connected watches on the market, the system eliminates fragmentation. one product works across brands, sizes and ecosystems. this universality represents a key commercial advantage for distribution partners. Technical Specification or Expertise Sought The company is seeking suppliers and manufacturing partners with expertise in precision metalwork, advanced materials and high‑end customization to support the production and evolution of its patented modular watch bracelet. - Precision Metal Manufacturing The company needs a reliable partner specialized in small precision metal components for watches or jewelry. Required capabilities include CNC machining or MIM, premium finishing (brushed steel, black PVD, titanium), and quality control aligned with watchmaking standards. Current volumes range from 100 to 1,000 units per year, with expected growth toward 100 to 5,000 units within 24 months. - New Materials Development The company seeks partners experienced in integrating ceramic, leather, fabric or carbon into metal bracelet structures. The goal is to introduce new finishes while maintaining the structural strength needed to support two watches securely. - Customization and High‑End Finishing The company is looking for partners offering engraving (laser or mechanical), stone setting, precious metal plating (gold, platinum, rhodium) and DLC coating to develop limited editions and bespoke models. - Preferred Regions Priority is given to partners based in Europe (France, Switzerland, Germany, Portugal) or Asia (Japan, South Korea), while remaining open to other regions demonstrating strong expertise and quality standards. Expected role of a partner - MANUFACTURING The partner handles the full production cycle for their scope: raw material sourcing, machining or forming, surface tre