Watch straps are the most prominent part of your wristwatch, so they shouldn’t be overlooked. Apart from the general outlook, a good watch strap can enable your watch to last longer. Having to change and deal with a damaged strap can cause a strain on the central part of the wristwatch.
Bands can also be used for identification and to hold a watch in place.
Some bands are made of stretch materials. These bands are good if you need to participate in strenuous activities like exercise or hiking.
Types of watch bands are limited so it’s essential to understand the advantages and disadvantages of the different kinds.
1.Leather Watch Band
Leather is both environmentally friendly and durable. It is sometimes preferred because of its ease of maintenance. With leather watches, you don’t need to worry so much about scratches. This, however, depends on the leather quality.
Wristwatches like the Omega Seamaster aqua terra have an alligator leather band. Other sources of leather include cows, sheep, goats, and equine animals.
This type of watchband is often a bit pricier than others, but this is worth it for the high-end watch collector. The primary consideration when looking for one of these watchbands is to make sure you are getting one that is durable and will last for many years to come.
It is also essential to consider how functional your watch may be. If your job requires many physical activities, then a watch with a leather strap may not be the best option.
A disadvantage of leather bands is the possibility of them getting infested by molds. However, this only happens if you live in humid regions and you don’t store your watch properly.
Several other types of leather bands are available, including synthetic leather, full-grain leather, top-grain leather, and bonded leather. Synthetic leather bands are the best if you want something durable and look similar to a genuine leather band.
Leather watches are an excellent choice for people who want a watch that looks good, is very durable and also is very easy to clean. Some people may be opposed to wearing leather since they are made from animal skin. In recent years, many animal activists have raised the alarm about animal cruelty being perpetrated for the sake of fashion.
2.Stainless Steel Strap
Stainless steel wristwatch bands are the most popular type of band. It is durable and provides a less expensive alternative than gold or silver. Stainless steel watchbands are generally used by men who prefer a watch with a masculine appeal.
These bands tend to have very smooth, simple straps and come with a sportier look than the more flashy gold and silver straps. One thing to keep in mind with stainless steel watchbands is that they tend to scratch easier than some of the other bands.
So you will want to purchase a watch band with a little bit of texture to it. Another disadvantage of this kind of strap is that it can be heavy, making it challenging to wear daily.
These watches can be a little bit more challenging to clean and are not as simple as some of the other bands on the market. If you are going to use your watch heavily regularly, stainless steel may not be the best choice for you.
Stainless steel watch bands also tend to be slightly more expensive than some of the other bands, although prices are starting to come down a bit. They also appear bulky and take up a lot of space.
3.Wooden Strap
A wooden wristwatch band was always in fashion for many decades, but they became even more in recent years. This is most probably because more people are embracing degradable materials. You can carve these woods in different shapes and patterns.
They are made from high-quality wood painted or coated with an oil-based lacquer to make the outer look polished. Some people might think that these bands are too expensive since they are not common. But compared to metals and leather, they can be a cheaper alternative.
There are even several makers of watches who are dedicated to making wooden bands for their wristwatches. If you are interested in getting one of these bands, all you need to do is buy one made of quality wood.
A disadvantage, however, is that just like the leather watches, it is prone to mold and damage by insects.
4.Silicon Rubber Strap
Silicon watches have good temperature resistance. It is eco-friendly and easily stretchable, which makes it the ideal watch band for sports watches. Most high-tech watches that are used during sports like jogging or running are made with silicon. They are soft and comfortable against the skin.
The best thing about these wristbands is that they come in different styles and colors if you would like to add some vibrancy to your outlook. It would be easier for you to find the right silicon rubber wristwatch band that would fit your taste, style, and personality.
Quartz wristwatches are the most common type of watch that uses this type of band material. Lots of sports watches are quartz. Another thing about quartz wristwatches is that they are less expensive than the other type of watch.
Some people might think of silicon straps as childish because of the color choices. They are also available in neutral colors like black and brown.
Conclusion
There are different kinds of wristwatch bands. Manufacturers made it possible to change the strap of our watch without having to change the whole wristwatch. Some watch vendors deal on watch straps too.
Many online shops also sell watch straps. All you have to do is to find a suitable watch repairer and get your strap changed.
With all the alternatives available, you are sure to find something that you like. The stainless look may be more appealing to you or the leather. Whichever you choose, make sure you’re well aware of the cons and pros. Also, make proper inquiries on how to maintain them in the right way.