We'll introduce five models with outstanding straps. Straps, available in a variety of materials, colors, and shapes, are items that can bring out the charm of your watch and help you discover new aspects of it. Use these models as a reference and step into the deep world of straps.
Text by Tsubasa Nojima
[Article published on January 27, 2025]
Rethinking the appeal of watch straps with five stylish watch styles
The strap is the unsung hero that makes a watch stand out. With the exception of some models with unusual lug shapes, most watches allow you to change the strap, and the combination of straps can enhance the watch's appeal many times over.
Materials range from leather, rubber, and fabric, and there are attractive products not only from genuine brands but also from third-party strap manufacturers specializing in straps. Custom-made straps are also available for those looking for the perfect combination. Recently, interchangeable straps that can be removed from the case without using a spring bar remover have become more common. While changing straps used to carry the risk of damaging the watch, the popularity of interchangeable straps has made them easier to replace.
This time, we'll introduce five watches with outstanding strap combinations that will leave you speechless. Get your hands on one of these and enjoy the charm of straps that match each theme and origin, or use them as inspiration for your own strap selection. Plain black or brown straps are convenient, but stepping out of the box will open up a whole new world.
When changing straps, it's a good idea to pay attention not only to whether the lug width is right, but also to the balance of thickness and buckle width. The appearance can change dramatically depending on the material, luster, and tip shape. Try out various combinations and enjoy the world of watches even more.
Omega "Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon" Ref. 310.92.44.50.06.002
This model features an all-gray exterior, including a gray ceramic case. The back of the rubber strap features a lunar motif. Manual winding (Cal. 3869). 26 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve approximately 50 hours. Ceramic case (diameter 44.25mm, thickness 12.97mm). Water resistant to 50m. Price: 2,321,000 yen (tax included).
This is one of the new variations of the Omega Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon, released in 2025. It retains the Dark Side of the Moon design, which is based on the dark side of the moon, but is finished in a grey color.
The dial features a laser-etched pattern of the front side of the moon. Part of the dial is openwork, allowing you to see the chronograph lever inside. The caseback allows you to see the movement, which is laser-etched with a pattern of the far side of the moon.
The moon motif pattern is also featured on the back of the rubber strap. Although it is normally invisible, when you remove the watch from your wrist and admire the movement, you can enjoy the strap as well, making for a very stylish design. Recently, there have been many Speedmasters with rubber straps in the lineup, but this model is a good example that takes advantage of the characteristics of rubber straps, which are easy to mold into complex shapes.
Breitling Top Time B31 Ref.AB3113171L1X1
This new Top Time model features a compact case and an in-house three-hand movement. It features a retro-inspired green dial and a matching calf leather strap. Automatic (Cal. Breitling 31). 26 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve: approximately 78 hours. Stainless steel case (38mm diameter). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 819,500 yen (tax included).
The Breitling Top Time is a simple chronograph watch that was born in the 1960s. The Top Time B31 inherits its design while being a more versatile three-hand model. Its classic round case is compact, measuring just 38mm in diameter, making it easy to wear both on and off the job. It features a non-screw crown for easy operation and is water resistant to 10 bar.
The dial has a simple layout with bar-type indexes and hands, and a date display at the 3 o'clock position, but the overall color is deep green, with a black outer rim and orange second hand, creating a unique look. The date display is fitted with a magnifying lens for excellent visibility.
The calf leather strap, whose color matches the dial, is also noteworthy. The predominantly green color is combined with white stitching, and the perforated finish gives it a casual feel. The Top Time is a model closely associated with the cafe racer culture that was popular in the 1960s, and the perforated finish also evokes that history.
It is equipped with the long-awaited Breitling in-house three-hand movement, Cal. Breitling 31, which can be viewed through the see-through case back.
TAG Heuer "TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Gulf" Ref. CAW218G.EB0393
This is a collaboration model with the oil company Gulf. While following the design of the original "Monaco," it features the same color scheme as Steve McQueen's racing suit. Automatic (Cal. 11). 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 40 hours. Ti case (39mm x 39mm, 14.3mm thick). Water resistant to 100m. Limited to 971 pieces worldwide. Price: 1,424,500 yen (tax included).
The limited-edition "Monaco" was created in partnership with the oil company Gulf. Featuring both companies' logos on the dial, it's a must-have for motorsports fans. It also features a small seconds subdial at 3 o'clock, a 30-minute counter at 9 o'clock, and a date display at 6 o'clock.
The square case, crafted from grade 2 titanium, features a sandblasted finish throughout, creating a design with a strong tool-like feel. It's water resistant to 100m, ensuring durable use. The crown is located at 9 o'clock, following the layout of the world's earliest automatic chronograph movement, the Cal. 11, which was also featured in the original. While this model also uses the Cal. 11, there's no connection to the original model's movement other than the layout.
What really makes this watch special is the navy blue and orange stripes on the silver dial, which appears white thanks to its fine-grained finish, the same colors as Steve McQueen's racing suit.
Two straps are included: one in the same white textile color as McQueen's racing suit, and one in perforated navy blue calf leather, both with vibrant orange stitching.
Bvlgari "Bvlgari Aluminum Chronograph" Ref. 103868
This is a "Bvlgari Aluminum" automatic chronograph model. It comes on a strap made of a rubber plate and aluminum links. It's automatic (Cal. BVL381). It beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour. It has a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. It has an aluminum case (41mm diameter, 14.6mm thick). It's water resistant to 100m. It's priced at 775,500 yen (tax included).
This is the latest release from the Bvlgari Aluminum series, which was launched in 1998. It is one of Bvlgari's signature collections, combining two different materials: an aluminum case and a rubber bezel. The model we are introducing this time is a chronograph watch with a small second at 3 o'clock, a 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock, a 30-minute counter at 9 o'clock, and a date display at 4:30. The case is 41mm in diameter, but the wide bezel makes it appear compact.
In addition to the case design, one of the most iconic elements of the Bvlgari Aluminium is its rubber strap. The rubber plates are connected with aluminum links, giving the watch a refined and luxurious feel despite being a rubber strap.
The case back is made of DLC-coated titanium. The use of a highly corrosion-resistant material in the area that comes into direct contact with the skin ensures durability. Inside is an automatic chronograph movement.
Oris "Oris x Cervo Volante" Ref.01 754 7785 4068-Set
This is a collaboration model with Cervo Volante, a company that produces sustainable leather. The gradient orange dial and mahogany brown leather strap are perfect for the coming season. Automatic movement (Cal. Oris 754-1). 26 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve: approximately 41 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 40mm, thickness 12.2mm). Water resistant to 5 bar. Price: 404,800 yen (tax included).
This is a collaboration model with Cervo Volante, a Swiss sustainable leather company that produces leather products using upcycled deerskin. Oris has supported this initiative by actively using leather straps made from the company's deerskin.
The new model announced this time is based on the Big Crown Pointer Date and features a gradient orange dial that evokes the twilight of an autumn evening. It combines Oris' iconic design with the unique character of a colored dial.
The 40mm case is fitted with a coin-edged bezel, creating a vintage look reminiscent of classic pilot watches. The automatic movement inside can be seen through the caseback.
The strap is, of course, made from Cervo Volante leather. Because it is a natural material, you can enjoy the differences in each piece of deerskin, such as wrinkles and scratches on the surface, which have developed over time. Another attractive feature is the quick-change system, which allows the strap to be attached and detached from the case with just one touch. This watch also comes with a travel pouch made from Cervo Volante deerskin.
