Mark XVI bracelet

Here's a Mark XVI Fliegeruhr question that I bet many can answer in a nanosecond, but that I, new to the IWC mystique, haven't a clue about:

On the inner side of the clasp are the tiny, barely legible letters "bro." What do they signify?

By the way, if any of you who read this are considering purchasing the Mark XVI and are troubled by the additional cost of the steel bracelet, here's my perspective: the steel bracelet is absurdly expensive, yes . . . but worth every blessed penny. It is a thing of beauty, with an artful simplicity that conceals the highest art . . . no less than the watch itself.

Mark XVI turning out to be the best purchase I ever made.

I am frightened, however--the Portuguese with white dial and blue hands is awfully enticing. Maybe a must for 2110!

Best regards to all.

Donald

Re: Mark XVI bracelet

According to the information I have it is only a code for the manufacturer who makes them for IWC.

Regards,
Jack Freedman

Re: Mark XVI bracelet

Thanks for replying!

I had assumed that IWC itself made its steel bracelets. Not that it matters one way or the other--the thing is still of incredible quality!

Do you happen to know who does make the bracelets?

Re: Mark XVI bracelet

Hi Don !
Maybe for a more complete picture worth mentioning is that my buckles and deployant are all stamped Swiss Made BRO Stainless Steel or BRO Swiss Stainless Steel.
If BRO stands for manufacturers then they are suppliers for all IWC watch "accessories" (bracellets , buckles , deployants).

Re: Mark XVI bracelet

Dear Taubi:

Thanks for the info!

The steel bracelet--whoever makes it--truly is incredible, isnt' it? I am assuming that you have the Mark XVI, too.

What othr IWCs do you own, may I ask?

Cheers!

Donald