Here Martin from Strapsco.com describes his passion for watch straps; how to size them, how to wear them, how to select the best strap for your type of watch, and how each strap or band that you choose to wear should be a true reflection of your personality. Martin writes:
What makes me tick? Watches! I’m a watch enthusiast at heart, but I tend to get bored with a watch after a while. Even the most expensive watch costing thousands can get dull after some time. The solution? A new watch strap from StrapsCo.com! A new watch band can be a fun and economical way to bring new life your timepiece, transforming it into a whole new watch. Remember, watches are all about the details, so I’ve included some tips on everything you need to know about selecting the perfect watch strap.
Sizing
The first thing you need to do is to identify the correct strap size to fit your watch. Watch straps are measured by the width of the strap end which attaches to your watch. You can check the back of your current strap to see if the size is identified. If not, simply measure the distance between your watch lugs to get the correct size. You also have to consider the watch strap length. If you have a regular size wrist, a standard length strap should do the trick. However, if you have a smaller or larger than average wrist, you may need a short or extra-long strap. Watch straps are usually measured in millimeters (mm).
Style & Material
Choose a strap style that suits your watch, as well as, your own personal style. Dress watches are usually paired up with a classic/basic style leather strap. NATO straps look great on military watches. Vintage watches match up nicely with a distressed style leather strap. You’ll often find a rally strap, known for having perforated holes or 3 large holes, on a racing chronograph. Rubber bands go hand in hand with diver’s watches and are usually available in all sorts of vivid colors. High-end timepieces are often flaunted with genuine crocodile or alligator straps. If you want something different and a little bit flashy, try a stingray or python strap, but expect to pay more for straps made from these types of exotic materials. Of course, you can put any strap on any watch that fits. There are countless options to choose from that will reflect your personality and lifestyle. Change-up your bands regularly to keep your watch feeling fresh and exciting.
Colors & Stitching Options
Watch straps are available in a large spectrum of colors. For leather straps, you can go for classic black or brown, or match your outfit or mood with a pop of color. Colorful straps have also become very popular for rubber bands, especially orange, blue and red. You can match up your strap color to your watch dial or another part of your watch for perfect cohesion. The stitching on the strap is where things can get fun. Match up the strap stitching to the hands or markers on your watch for a more stylish and well thought out look.
Buckles & Clasps
Buckles and clasps are available in polished silver, matte silver, brushed silver, yellow gold, rose gold, black, matte black, bronze and an assortment of vintage finishes. You want to match the buckle finish to your watch case finish. Although some people might not mind matching up a polished buckle to a brushed finished watch case, a true watch enthusiast would want the finishes to match up perfectly. Another thing to consider is the buckle style. If you have a thinner style watch, you would want a strap with a standard tang buckle, which isn’t too bulky. If you have a large style watch, you may want a pre-v, or thumbnail buckle, which are more substantial than a standard tang buckle. You would not want to matchup a large pre-v buckle with a dress watch.
The time piece you wear should be a reflection of you. Don’t be afraid to show off your unique, eye-catching, personal style with a variety of watch straps.
What tips do you have for buying a new watch strap? Let us know in the comments below!