We’ve all looked at a watch we’ve had for a while and started to think, has it had its time? Maybe it doesn’t evoke the feelings it once did or perhaps it’s just been relegated to the back of the watch box with only occasional wrist time. But you shouldn’t despair. That once loved watch can be revived by simply buying a new replacement watch strap and you’ll find yourself falling in love with it all over again.
Once upon a time fitting a new strap, especially to brands like Rolex or Patek Philippe, was a big no no. If you needed a replacement strap or bracelet it was off to your authorised dealer credit card firmly in hand. Nowadays, new straps, funky designs and different materials are celebrated and have become part of watch culture as we recognise that a new strap can breathe life into an old watch.
It’s also a comparatively cheap alternative to buying a new watch yet it offers much of the same thrill and with many different strap options available there’s no end to the combos you can create. So, if you’re looking to rekindle a relationship with an old watch, these are the strap options you should consider.
Nato
A set of colourful Artem NATO straps shows the variety of this strap type
Nato is a firm favourite of anyone wanting a more casual look from a replacement watch strap. What makes it unique is it’s a single piece of material that loops through the spring bars, rather than a strap in two parts. Omega have been using the Nato for a while and it’s often been an option on many Speedmaster models for its more authentic space suit ready appeal.
Made from nylon, a nato strap is often a more affordable option yet still highly durable. As a result, it’s easy to have a couple of different nato straps in the drawer waiting to be switched in and out whenever the mood strikes. You also won’t be short of choice with endless colours, patterns and weaves to choose from should you want to find a specific match to your watch dial or bezel.
Sail Cloth
Northstar Sail Cloth Strap’s adding new looks to Seiko, Studio Underd0g, Omega, Baltic and Beitling
Whilst Nato is a specific type of fabric strap there are a variety of others in the more traditional two piece format. One of which, sail cloth, has been growing in popularity. Even major brands like Blancpain have incorporated the sail cloth strap into several of the Fifty Fathoms line up as standard.
As the name suggests sail cloth is made from, and aims to mimic, the canvas materials used for boat sails. It has a textured appearance so it’s not smooth like leather, which gives it a less dress watch more daily wearer type of vibe. Due to its origin story it tends to pair well with dive watches but there’s certainly no exclusivity.
Fabric
Joseph Bonnie Wool and Leather Strap on a Rolex DateJust and Omega
“Fabric straps” has become a catchall term for those straps that aren’t specifically Nato or sail cloth in design but that are made from similar materials. Most commonly you’ll find variations of canvas and nylon but you might also come across Cordura, a material used regularly by the military for things like backpacks, and even denim – looking at you Patek Philippe. Another example of a watch with a fabric strap as standard is the latest Tag Heuer Carrera Chronograph Skipper.
Fabric straps offer so much versatility that they could just as easily be used to dress a watch up as dress one down. It all depends on your choice of colour and material. The only real drawback with fabric is they can be magnets for dirt and stains. You’ll know how annoying a coffee stain is on a shirt now imagine it on your watch strap. I’m not sure I can recommend putting your fabric watch strap in the washing machine.
Rubber
A Zealande Rubber Strap perfectly curated for the Rolex Submariner
Rubber straps get some heat but there’s no question they are still a fan favourite. In principle a rubber strap should be an inexpensive option to produce so you could argue whether it has a place on watches costing in the thousands. The Patek Phillip Aquanaut with its rubber strap is often part of this debate, but the strap actually adds to its desirability, setting it apart from similar watches like the Nautilus.
Switching your watch to a replacement rubber strap will definitely dress it down, it’s certainly more beach ready than ballroom but then, I know which of those two places I’m more likely to go. One thing to watch out for is that rubber straps are often integrated into the case so make sure you pick one that will fit your watch’s lugs.
Leather
A vintage inspired Lorente leather strap is a good match for a vintage Heuer Autavia
Leather is about as classic as it gets. It’s often cited as one of the defining characteristics of the dress watch and it makes for a great alternative to give a sports watch a completely new look. Tudor’s Black Bay 58 range is available in steel or leather and even though the watch is the same, the leather version gives the dive watch a whole new personality.
Similar to fabric there are multiple different types of leather straps from calf skin to alligator, ostrich and vegan or synthetic leathers. As well as differences in the look and texture these leather types come in a wide range of prices. Leather straps also have the benefit of additional stitching details.
Suede
The Hamilton Khaki Pilot Air Glaciers comes with a second suede strap for when you want to switch from the standard blue nylon
Suede or suede effect straps are grabbing their share of wrist time. It’s not a look you see all that regularly but recent releases from Swan & Edgar, with their Horizon blue enamel, and the Ressence Type 1 rose gold both come with light grey suede straps as standard and visually these watches make an impact. So it’s a great option for a replacement watch strap.
The suede effect is usually only applied to the top side of the strap, underneath it will be mounted on to a leather or other material to make it more hard wearing and protect it from sweat. A suede strap will add a touch of class and sophistication to your watch. However, it’s to be avoided if you plan on spending any time near water.
Metals
Forstner Bands Komfit Stainless Steel Bracelet
The steel bracelet is a signature look and there’s a reason it has been everyone’s favourite choice for the last few decades. Whilst most brands will provide their standard 3-link or 5-link bracelet there’s plenty of other options you can explore. For instance, mesh bracelets are seeing a return with Jaeger LeCoultre’s Reverso Tribute being one of the great releases from 2025.
You can apply this look to your old watch to give it a modern retro aesthetic. And if it’s not mesh there are plenty of other steel link variations including black PVD coated if you want a dark and mysterious look. The great benefit of a new metal bracelet is you’ll get something that’s long lasting and super easy to clean.
