Refresh your favorite timepiece with a simple strap swap

Alan

Photography by Alan Galbraith

In fashion, small details can make a big difference. This is particularly true with the bracelet or strap on your watch. A simple strap swap can transform your watch from dinner-party formal to yacht-club casual or even international-spy rugged–and all, in some cases, for not much money.

Changing the strap is a task most anyone with a little bit of practice can do in just a few minutes. You’ll often only need a spring bar tool–figure less than 20 bucks for one. YouTube abounds with step-by-step tutorials, but we suggest that you practice with a watch that isn’t precious to you. 

Many watches leave the factory on a metal bracelet. This is often the most durable choice for dive and sport watches intended to be banged around in extreme situations. A rubber strap is a more comfortable alternative that’s perfect for water activities.

Swapping to a nylon NATO-style strap–prices start at less than $20–gives the watch a more casual or sporty vibe and comes with lots of color choices. A leather strap will lend a sophisticated vintage look to most timepieces, but it might not be the best choice for warm or humid weather. 

Looking for a new timepiece? Simply changing the strap or bracelet on your watch can be a quick, cost-effective way to extend the versatility of your current collection.

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Comments
wspohn
wspohn UltraDork
5/30/25 9:44 a.m.

And if you misplace the original metal band you just devalued your watch,

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