Caring for your leather strap
An exotic leather strap ages well when it is well treated. A few simple habits keep it going for years.
Leather’s enemies
Water stains, hardens and warps leather. Take your watch off to swim, shower or do the dishes. Sweat: our straps are lined with sweat-resistant calfskin, but a strap worn every day in summer wears faster. Heat and sun dry out the skin and fade the colours.
Good habits
After rain, wipe the strap with a soft cloth and let it dry flat, in the open air, away from a radiator. Don’t wear it too tight: a strap that lets a finger through breathes better. If you often wear the same watch, alternate two straps so each has time to dry.
Leather by leather
Alligator and lizard: a soft cloth and, now and then, a touch of neutral balm for smooth leather, applied thinly and buffed. Nubuck: never any balm; a soft brush to lift the nap. Ostrich: naturally oily and supple, it needs little care. Stingray: almost indestructible, a cloth is enough. Toad: dust the relief with a soft brush. Calf and patina leathers: patina is part of the charm; a neutral balm revives the colour.
When to replace your strap?
A well-kept strap lasts several years. Replace it when the holes stretch, the lining comes away or the stitching wears: a tired strap can give way.
Questions about a specific leather? Read our articles on stingray and ostrich, or see the FAQ.