Leather Watch Strap Thickness - The Ultimate Guide
On average, leather watch straps tend to be about 3 to 4 millimetres in thickness. The thickness of a strap can vary based on the width and style, for example, padded watch straps tend to have less padding the narrower the size, whilst flat watch straps have consistent thickness throughout regardless of their width. There are therefore a number of variables at play when it comes to the thickness of a strap.
Another important thing to consider is the length of the leather strap. If the strap is too thick, it might not be able to make it the whole way around your wrist. So, when choosing the strap size, remember that the thicker the strap, the longer you’ll need it to be. I.e. If you’re going for a strap thicker than 4 millimetres, you should also increase the length of the strap by a couple of millimetres so it is long enough to fit around your wrist.
It is also important to note that leather straps are going to be a bit tighter on your wrist to begin with. When you first wear the strap, it should pretty much hug your wrist. The more you wear it, the leather will stretch and fit a little more comfortably on your wrist as it loosens.
Choosing The Right Watch Strap Thickness
There is no wrong or right answer when it comes to choosing the right watch strap thickness for your watch, as it depends on the type of watch, the occasion, and of course your personal preference. The general rule of thumb is, if you’ve got a thick wrist, select a watch with a large case and a broad band, so the watch is proportionate to your hand and wrist. Likewise, if you’ve got a thin or slender wrist, opt for a smaller watch with a thin strap.
Typically speaking, dress watches are associated with being slim, and there is a good reason for this. An elegant dress watch is meant to be worn with a suit and therefore, the watch must be able to effortlessly slide under a cuff. If the watch and strap is too thick, it will have a hard time sliding under the cuff.
The Best Leather Watch Straps
Leather watch straps are one of the most popular watch straps on the market due to their durability, comfort, style and are available in a variety of leathers, such as alligator, crocodile, Shell Cordovan, calf leather and suede.
Here are some of our best hand-selected leather watch straps:
1. RIOS1931 CHICAGO Shell Cordovan Leather Watch Strap
Shell cordovan is a type of leather commonly used in high-end shoemaking, wallets and watch straps, and is known for its aesthetic qualities and exceptional durability. It is made from the fibrous flat connective tissue (or shell) beneath the hide on the rump of the horse.
The RIOS1931 Chicago is a classy watch strap crafted from refined shell cordovan leather for a glossy, uniform look and exceptional durability. The shape and texture are accentuated with a hand-stitched saddler's seam in a matching, complementary tone.
If you’re looking for a luxury watch strap that can guarantee longevity and durability, Shell cordovan straps are the ones to choose. View our full range here.
2. JPM Italian Distressed Tasso Leather Watch Strap
Hand-crafted and hand-finished in Italy by Jean Paul Menicucci himself, the Distressed Tasso strap is wrought from soft, supple suede leather and carefully given a worn, coarse appearance that has an appealingly rustic look upon the wrist.
3. Hirsch JAMES Calf Leather Performance Watch Strap
Calfskin leather is one of the most commonly used leathers and a safe go to for day time or night time wear. Most of the premium leather straps you’ll find on the market are calfskin because it is super comfortable and classic.
Combining the flexibility and dependability of Hirsch's tried and tested natural Caoutchouc rubber core with a high-quality calfskin upper layer, the James performance strap truly is the best of both worlds, offering up high performance during intense activity with classy, traditional stitched leather style.
4. Hirsch LONDON Alligator Leather Watch Strap
Alligator leather is known as an exotic leather that can be used for a wide variety of luxury products including high end watch straps.
The Hirsch London strap is crafted from genuine Louisiana Alligator skin, with samples specially-selected for their large, uniform scales. The strap is also edge-lacquered and remborded for a refined, more durable finish. It is also available in a wide variety of colours, to suit every taste.
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Written by Kate, for Watch Obsession.