Watch Bands & Straps

Fitting a replacement strap correctly

Marine and outdoor watches vary more in lug width and attachment style than most people expect, so check the lug size in millimetres before ordering rather than assuming a standard fit. Quick release pins make swapping straps straightforward without tools, while older bar and spring pin fittings need a proper pin pusher to avoid scratching the case.

Material choice depends on how the watch is used afloat. Silicone and fluoroelastomer straps resist salt water and UV better than leather, and perforated or vented designs dry out faster after a wash-down. Nylon and woven straps are light and quick drying but can hold salt if not rinsed through.

If you are replacing a strap on a dive or marine-rated watch, keep the original buckle and pins where the fit is specific to that model, and check the strap width matches exactly rather than rounding up or down.