One of the essential components of any wrist watch, whether branded or unbranded is a strap. Without a strap, the case remains just a solo time piece. Moreover, it is not only an integral part of the assemblage but also plays a crucial role in enhancing the watch’s overall appearance. In fact, a strap can camouflage some of the short comings of a watch. They are built from an array of materials, sporting equally varied designs. Incidentally, they are available as regular, long or extra-long bands to accommodate all wrist sizes. Some of the popular materials exploited to build them are –

Genuine Leather Watch Straps –

Authentic leather bands are typically made from animal hides such as cow / calf or snake / crocodile / alligator skins. These are expensive, and one of the reasons for its high price is because of strict laws against killing animals for commercial or creative gains. Nonetheless, high end watch makers / brands legally exploit animal skins for their premium models. These watch straps are highly sustainable, resistant to wear and tear and do not break down easily. On the flip side, it can cause irritation in spite of its suppleness and soft inner lining. Some of the salient features of leather watch straps are –

Calf skin is the preferred material in this category due to its elasticity and tight grains while alligator skins are truly expensive due to their balanced scales and distinct pattern. The latter is also a protected species and therefore available in limited quantities.
Making watch straps from imported raw hides can make them even more costly; at times 20% of the watch price.
Leather watch straps complement state of the art watch designs beautifully, enhancing their charm and stature. Moreover, they are easy to install /adjust.

Faux Leather Watch Straps –

It is one of the few alternatives for those who shun genuine leather straps on ethical / moral grounds and also for those who are susceptible to allergic reaction. Although, faux strap may sound like a ‘compromised’ option or hopelessly unfashionable, it is not true. In fact it comes in an array of designs and colors, and that too built with superior finish, which at times appears better looking than its genuine counterpart.

Moreover, it is extremely cheap, available for a range of watches and versatile. It therefore allows manufacturers to create stunning variations. Remember, only the distinct pattern is imitated, the rest of the elements are absolutely innovative. They are called PU leather straps. The basic material is either PVC or PU. However, interlacing with other materials such as polyester and cotton blends is quite common.

Steel Watch Strap Bracelets –

A steel strap also known as link bracelet is one of the earliest designs. The 5 link configuration was supposedly introduced by Seiko. Although it looks and feels chunky, it nonetheless offers unmatched protection from scratches and wear & tear. Link bracelets also provide a sense of absolute, secure grip. Another metal based variant is called the “Mesh” strap. It is made by interlinking ( Interlaced ) several thin wire cords. The overall feel is extremely smooth while the crisscross design looks classy.

The history of metal bracelets can be traced back to the Renaissance era typically between 14th to 17th centuries when adornments were handcrafted. In spite of its long history, steel watch straps continue to remain the preferred choice of wearers and reputed watch makers.

Titanium Watch Straps –

On the other hand, watch straps / bracelets made from titanium not only reflect some of the qualities of steel such as ruggedness and resistance to scratches, but also stand out because of its inherent compelling attributes. And one of them is its weight. It is quite light and therefore easy on thin wrists. Due to its durability and withstanding capability against regular wear and tear, brands like Citizen have adopted this material for their top-of-the-line time pieces.

Titanium straps are comparatively lighter than steel and yet possess better “strength” parameter. However, because it is brittle, it can crack or break on heavy impacts. Unlike steel, it is also difficult to repair titanium watch bracelets.

Rubber Watch Straps –

There was a time when rubber / silicone straps were considered cheap and ugly. However, the trend changed during the early 80’s when some of the well-known brands offered them on their popular models. It quickly changed the perception of watch enthusiasts. Today, straps made from rubber or synthetic compounds have reached the pinnacle of watch making. They are available in an array of designs, colors, and thickness. Apart from these materials, they are also crafted from state of the art polymers which typically remove the design restriction synonymous with natural rubber.

Some of its advantages include –

Being resistant to water, these straps are perfect for watches which are built for sports activities.
Rubber straps do not form scratches or dents.
Limitless color choices.
Highly durable, doesn’t stain and easily washable ( can be wiped with moist fabric / cloth ).

And its disadvantages –

Not skin friendly. It doesn’t soak perspiration and therefore it can cause irritation, especially during summers.
If the strap is not taken care of it can turn brittle and break into pieces.
State of the art polymer straps are quite expensive.

Precious Metal Watch Straps –

As mentioned above, metal bracelets and arm embellishments can be traced back to the Renaissance era (14th to 17th century) when jewelry was handcrafted by goldsmiths in Europe, especially Italy. Today, watch bracelets made from gold, silver and precious alloys are mostly exploited in manufacturing designer watches or limited edition versions. Some of them also sport real diamonds. However, their popularity and availability in extremely restricted due to its price point and also because of its delicate attributes.

Gold and silver watch bracelet tends to warp, bend and prone to scratches. On the positive side they look stunning and have literally limitless design options.

Interestingly, watch straps and bracelets are available in various widths, and generally measured in millimeters. The average width of watch straps range between 18mm to 24mm. The latter is used for larger watch cases such as military and dual display type.