Text by Takeshi Matsuyama

When the seasons change, I think about changing the strap on my watch.

Metal bracelets are great for Japan's long, hot and humid summers, but when the temperature drops, leather straps with their dressier feel seem to change things up.

Change your watch strap like a fashion statement

Previously, black and brown were the mainstream colors for men's watch straps, but recently, leather straps have become more diverse in materials and colors, allowing for a wide variety of coordination options to match the look of the watch itself and the dial.

In Japan, too, an increasing number of people are enjoying luxurious leather belts from French brands such as Jean Rousseau and Camille Fournet.

Until now, crocodile leather has been the standard material for leather straps on luxury watches, but recently, beautifully colored calfskin straps have become popular.
There seems to be pressure from people who advocate animal rights, but I also think it's a prejudice to think that it's okay to use leather made from cow or pig leather.

That aside, my personal favorite is the one made by Atelier de Bracelet, an atelier that specializes in custom-made leather straps and is located outside Geneva, Switzerland, the world's center of watchmaking.
This is because there is an astonishing variety of materials in stock here.

The first time I went to the atelier, I bought a leather strap for a 1940s Rolex Bubble Back I bought in the 1970s. It was a medium gray crocodile strap in a stainless steel and rose gold combination that perfectly matched the black dial of the watch.

At this year's Geneva watch fair, a part of the strap I was wearing became faulty, but a veteran female craftsman was able to fix it in no time, which was a relief.
Watch cases come in a variety of sizes, but as long as you know the inner diameter of the lugs and the size of the buckle, you can choose the material and order.

It's amazing how changing the strap like this gives the watch a new look.

This time, I bought a new strap for my favorite chronograph watch made by Ulysse Nardin.The previous pale blue strap looked good, but the new beige strap also suits me well.

I hope that more people will enjoy the changes that this new belt brings.

Speaking of unusual watch strap materials, stingray leather, such as galuchat, or python buckskin, can create a unique atmosphere.

When it comes to vintage watches, pigskin watch straps, which were used by brands like Cartier in the past, also add a lot of atmosphere.

Just as you would match a suit with a tie, we want you to discover the joy of changing the leather strap of your favorite watch.

What is "Takeshi Matsuyama: What connects people and time"?

A series in which Takeshi Matsuyama, a pioneering Japanese watch journalist, introduces the stories behind watches, people, and brands that he is drawn to from his own unique perspective.

Author profile

Japanese lyricist, writer, and editor. Born in Kyoto in 1946. In 1968, he wrote "Yopparai Returns" with his friends Kazuhiko Kato and Osamu Kitayama of The Folk Crusaders, which became a million-seller. In the 1970s, he was involved in the launch of magazines such as "Popeye" and "Brutus" published by Heibonsha (now Magazine House). Since the 70s, he has been fascinated by the world of mechanical watches, and has been promoting the appeal of watches. His many books include "Porridge of Wisdom and Tea of ​​Thought," "Great Japan Doraku Travelogue," and the play series "Chaai" and "Ororoji."