How to Buy a Watch Strap

Introduction:

One of the quickest, easiest, and cheapest ways to give your watch a new look is to switch out the strap. But how do you know which strap is right for you? And how do you make sure you're buying a quality strap? In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of buying a watch strap, from finding the right size to ensuring you're getting good value for your money.

Editor’s Note

It's not always easy to know when you're ready to buy a watch. In fact, sometimes it's downright hard. Do you want a Rolex? Or something a little more accessible? Regardless of your choice, it's important to make sure you're buying the right timepiece for your needs. And that's where our series Five Questions comes in. This time, we're tackling the purchase of a watch strap. So, if you're thinking about making a watch purchase in the near future, read on. We'll help make sure you're buying the right thing for you.

A new strap can make a single watch feel almost like a collection. But make sure that you’re buying the right type.

A watch strap is a great way to change the look of your watch, and can make a single watch feel almost like a collection. But with so many styles, materials and other factors to consider, buying a new strap can be a confusing proposition. So before you buy, consider the following five questions: 1. What material should the strap be made of? Leather, metal, synthetic... there are many options. 2. What style of strap should I choose? 3. What color should the strap be? 4. What width should the strap be? 5. How long should the strap be? By answering these five questions, you'll be able to narrow down your choices and find the perfect strap for your watch.

What activities will I be doing with this watch?

One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a watch strap is the kind of activities you'll be doing with it. Different materials are better suited for different types of activities. Metal bracelets, for example, are great for dressier occasions, but might not be ideal for more active pursuits. Rubber, nylon and other sporty materials are perfect for sweaty activities, while leather is generally not recommended because it can become damaged and stretched out over time. Climate and weather can also be a deciding factor, as some materials and strap types are especially designed to be breathable. If you're engaging in a particularly rough activity where you and your watch are getting significantly banged around, even the strap's durability might be a factor.

What type of strap should I get?

When it comes to watch straps, there are a lot of options to choose from. So, where do you start? The first thing to consider is what type of watch you have. Is it a casual or formal watch? Once you have an idea of the watch's genre, you can start thinking about what type of strap would look best. If you have a dressy watch, for example, a leather strap is a good option. However, alligator, suede, nubuck, and ostrich leathers are also popular choices for dressier watches. If you're not sure where to start, check out our guide to different types of leather straps. Remember that different genres of watches often have associated strap styles, so these are a good place to start. But don't be afraid to get creative with your choices!

What will look best with my watch?

Now that you've determined the type of strap that's best for you and your watch, it's time to consider color. If your watch has a black dial with a simple design, for example, you'll want to choose a strap with a similar color. The material of the strap is also important to consider. Different materials will look different on your wrist, so it's important to choose one that will complement your watch. For example, a leather strap will look great with a metal watch case, while a nylon strap will look good with a plastic watch case. Finally, hardware is another important factor to consider when choosing a strap. Buckles come in all shapes and sizes, so it's important to find one that will match the rest of your hardware.

What size strap does my watch/wrist need?

Most mens watches use an 18mm, 20mm, or 22mm strap size. Watches with an odd lug width of 19mm can sometimes be found on vintage watches. Straps for larger watches like a Panerai might use a size of 24mm or 26mm. It's important to measure the diameter of your wrist to get a perfect fit, or to measure an old strap that already fits well. It's a bummer when you get a new strap only to find out it's either too loose or tight on your wrist.

How much should I spend?

How much you spend on a watch strap is up to you, but don't discount the idea of spending more for something nicer. Many watch nerds will expound on how a high-quality strap can elevate the look and feel of even a simple and inexpensive watch. Thankfully, there are nearly endless strap choices at every budget. From $5 synthetic options all the way up to $500 handmade leather straps, there's something for everyone. So have fun with it and experiment until you find the perfect strap for your watch—and your style.

Conclusion:

Changing your watch strap is an easy and affordable way to update your look, whether you’re looking for a new color, style or material. Just make sure you buy the right type of strap for your watch and activity level, so you can get the most out of your timepiece.