Franco Fox Tail Collection
A franco chain, also called a fox tail chain, is tightly woven, square in cross-section and exceptionally strong. In silver-tone or gold-tone stainless steel, 3 mm wide.
The franco chain, also called a foxtail chain, is made of V-shaped links that lock tightly into each other to form a square, compact strand. The result looks almost like one solid piece of metal.
Strong and sleek
Because the links interlock from every side, there is no point where the chain can bend open. That makes the franco, next to the king's chain, one of the strongest links there is. It also lies remarkably sleek and smooth, without the loose movement of a link chain.
Width and length
Our franco chain is 3 mm wide, in 50 and 60 cm. Thanks to its square cross-section, 3 mm looks fuller than a flat link of the same width. 50 cm falls just below the collarbone, 60 cm mid-chest; want a pendant on it? Choose 60 cm, so the pendant falls on your chest instead of against your neck.
Franco versus king's chain
Both are square and heavy, but the franco is smoother and more compact, where the king's chain keeps a visibly woven pattern. Want a sleek, modern line: franco. Want visible weaving: king's chain.
Pairing
A 3 mm franco stands on its own, but it also combines with a finer rope chain or a box chain, with at least 5 cm difference in length. Wear both in the same color.
Care
A franco is woven so tightly that little dirt gets between the links. Wipe it with a soft, dry cloth now and then. The silver-tone one can go in the shower; rinse it briefly with clean water afterwards if soap got on it and let it dry.
As a gift
A franco is a chain for anyone who wants sleek and strong. Choose 50 cm if he wears it on its own and 60 cm if a pendant goes on it. The silver-tone one is the safest choice, because it has no layer and goes with any steel watch.
Material
Both franco models are stainless steel. The silver-tone one is bare, polished steel with no coating: it does not discolor, no tarnish builds up and it can go in the shower. The gold-tone one has a five-layer PVD finish. It is harder than ordinary plating, but it is still a layer, so take it off before the shower and the gym. Both come off before the pool, because chlorine is harsher than shower water. Looking for a link in real precious metal? Have a look at 925 sterling silver.