One-of-a-kind handmade bangles from STUDEBAKER METALS

Tap. Tap. Tap. These handmade bangles from STUDEBAKER METALS are shaped by hammering metal into form, in a process that can truly be called craftsmanship. Each bangle, shaped according to the judgment of a skilled artisan, is truly one of a kind. Beautiful as an object in its own right, yet simple enough to pair with any outfit, this bangle brings a touch of beauty to your wrist.

What is STUDEBAKER METALS?

STUDEBAKER METALS was founded in November 2013 by Michael Studebaker and Alyssa Catalano, two skilled metalsmiths.

Alyssa Catalano worked as a jewelry buyer involved in product design, and through that experience she witnessed firsthand the world of mass-produced, low-cost jewelry made through metal casting. Feeling conflicted as inexpensive, easily accessible jewelry gained popularity alongside ever-shifting fashion trends, she encountered the traditional craftsmanship of metalsmith Michael Studebaker. Using classic manufacturing methods and materials, Michael Studebaker had been creating everyday craft pieces as an artisan, supplying products to brands and companies around the world. Moved by his deep devotion to metalwork, Alyssa Catalano set out with him to create pieces with a warmth absent from machine-made, mass-produced accessories—work that transcends passing trends. Together, they founded STUDEBAKER METALS.

Bangles born from an old-fashioned manufacturing method

When you think of a "bangle," you likely picture casting—a manufacturing method where molten metal is poured into a mold, much like cast iron. But STUDEBAKER METALS bangles are made through forging (tanzō), a process in which a rod-shaped piece of metal is shaped one hammer strike at a time. Forging involves striking the metal repeatedly with a hammer. This process does more than simply shape the product—it refines the metal's crystalline structure, aligning the direction of the crystals and increasing the metal's strength.

Forging produces a quality far superior to casting or machining, and it has long been used to make items that demand exceptional strength, such as blades and armor. In recent years, it has even been applied to automotive and aircraft parts, resulting in a toughness that can withstand impact and continuous wear.

Within forging, there are two types: die forging, in which pressure is applied using a mold, and free forging, in which the piece is shaped with a hammer. As mentioned earlier, STUDEBAKER METALS items are made using a hammer, through free forging. Die forging allows for mass production of identical items, but free forging requires skilled craftsmanship and can only be produced in small quantities—making it truly precious.
 

A finish called “Work Patina”

This is the brand's own signature finish, called “Work Patina.” After the metal is hammered into shape, it is deliberately left without polishing or coating. This lets you directly enjoy the raw expression of the metal and how its texture changes over time.

STUDEBAKER METALS bangles—versatile enough for both natural and fashion-forward styles

An image of the CHAMPION CUFF POLISHED layered with the AVANTI CUFF POLISHED

STUDEBAKER METALS bangles are versatile enough to suit both natural and fashion-forward styles. As modern clothing and accessories shift toward a more unisex direction, adding just one piece with this kind of workwear-inspired material—whether for men or women—can instantly pull an outfit together. The materials come in three types—silver, copper, and brass—and sizes include a smaller women's size as well as a unisex size that works for both men and women. Since the shapes vary slightly from piece to piece, please choose the one you like best.

How to choose a material

Every material used by STUDEBAKER METALS is prone to developing character over time. When people think of metal aging, they often picture "dullness" or "tarnishing," which may not sound particularly appealing. But for a bangle you'll care for and grow attached to—one that's sturdy, timeless, and made to last—it's best to avoid cheap, easily degraded plated materials, while also steering clear of expensive metals that might make you hesitant to wear it every day. The three materials featured here are especially recommended for this reason.

Silver

The silver used is Sterling Silver (925 silver). Said to have the highest reflectivity of visible light among metals, it reflects light beautifully, showing off a stunning shine and expression.

Copper

The natural pink-gold shine of copper has a beauty that makes even women want to try it. Over time, it takes on a brownish tone that gradually deepens toward black, developing a uniquely antique atmosphere unlike anything else.

Brass

Brass gradually changes to an amber hue over time. In the air, its surface slowly oxidizes and becomes covered with a film of copper oxide. This is what's known as "tarnishing," but it also transforms the piece into something glossy, with a certain antique-like allure.

For women with slender wrists:

LADIES Bangle STUDEBAKER BROAD CUFF 1INCH POLISHED

LADIES Bangle STUDEBAKER CHAMPION CUFF POLISHED

LADIES Bangle STUDEBAKER CUFF POLISHED

LADIES Bangle STUDEBAKER CUFF POLISHED

For women with average-sized wrists, or relatively slender men:

UNISEX Bangle STUDEBAKER CUFF WORK PATINA

UNISEX Bangle STUDEBAKER CLASSIC CUFF WORK PATINA

UNISEX Bangle STUDEBAKER AVANTI CUFF POLISHED

When you actually try coordinating them, you'll be surprised at how versatile they are—whether worn alone or stacked together, they add just the right accent. While we admire people who can casually coordinate accessories of various shapes and materials, STUDEBAKER METALS bangles have a quality that's not too particular; even though they can be a standout piece on their own, they can also play a supporting role, like baby's breath in a bouquet, complementing other items. They somehow feel just right whether paired casually with a hoodie, coat, or dress.

Stacked on the wrist with a casual hoodie

Coordinated items:

Thin bangle: LADIES Bangle STUDEBAKER CHAMPION CUFF POLISHED (SILVER-S)

Thick bangle: LADIES Bangle STUDEBAKER BROAD CUFF 1INCH POLISHED (SILVER-S)

Beige hoodie:Standard Sweat Hoodie (BEIGE)

Ring: ZUTTO original (coming soon)

Bottoms: personal item

Bangles with a craftsman-like feel go well with workwear and casual clothing. You can match the materials and create contrast through thickness, or wear different materials together for a lovely effect.

A glimpse from beneath a wool coat

Coordinated items:

Thin bangle: LADIES Bangle STUDEBAKER CHAMPION CUFF POLISHED (SILVER-S)

Grey coat:Reversible Jersey Cut-Off Coat (GREY)

Ring: ZUTTO original (coming soon)

Against the grey coat, we let the silver shine. We paired the thicker ring with a slightly thinner bangle for balance.

Adding a sharp accent even at the wrist of a dress

Coordinated items:

Thin bangle: LADIES Bangle STUDEBAKER CHAMPION CUFF POLISHED (SILVER-S)

Thick bangle: LADIES Bangle STUDEBAKER BROAD CUFF 1INCH POLISHED (SILVER-S)

Checked dress: Camisole Dress (GREY)

Bag: [Special Order] Rattan & Wool Hand-Knit Bag TAUPE

Ring: ZUTTO original (coming soon)

Even a gentle checked dress pairs well with a work-inspired bangle. The pink hue of copper would suit it too, but we kept things unified in silver to match the ring. The silver catches the light with a striking sparkle.

How should you care for metal accessories?

If you prefer an antique-like patina, no special care is needed. However, discoloration or transfer of color onto clothing may occur due to sweat, water, or friction, so if the piece gets wet, we recommend wiping off the moisture promptly and letting it dry. To prevent burns or frostbite, please avoid wearing it in high-temperature places like saunas, or in extremely cold environments.

Basic care: wipe it after use!

This microfiber cleaning cloth works for accessories, electronics, and glasses alike. It's an all-purpose cloth that wipes away fine dust, grime, fingerprints, oily residue, and microscopic particles, making it incredibly handy to keep on hand. (Some ZUTTO staff members have even bought multiples—one for the office, one for home...)

For those who prefer just a moderate amount of aging

If you'd like to enjoy the aging process but don't want it to look too antique, try caring for the piece yourself while checking on its condition. ZUTTO offers polishes suited to each type of metal.

[For silver: Silver Care Kit]

This kit includes a cloth and 8 sheets soaked generously in polishing solution. Since it thoroughly removes tarnish and dullness, there's no need to use it daily—it's ideal as a special treatment whenever you notice the need.

>>Click here for the mini-column about using silver polish

【For copper and brass: Brass & Copper Polish 250ml】

Simply take some of the milky-type polish on a soft cloth and wipe it over the surface. It will come out shining.

Just as leather deepens with age, metal too changes color again and again, gaining character over time. By using these pieces every day, you can enjoy the one-of-a-kind changes that unfold day by day. When you want to pair them with smarter outfits, or when you'd like to slow down the tarnishing, try using a dedicated cleaner to bring out the look you prefer.

Click here for the STUDEBAKER METALS pieces introduced in this article

The popular earrings are also back in stock.