Need help with strap

Hi guys,

I never have experience in changing straps or bracelet of my watch. All of my watches are "vanilla" straight original.

I been thinking i wanna change this aquaracer nylon strap with leather (either calf or gator not a big deal).

My question, is it possible to buy a leather strap in tag heuer boutique ?

Another question, apart from it might look weird, is there any negative implication if i change it from the original strap ?

Thanks

Yes, some boutiques have assortment of straps that they can sell you. Otherwise, they can order the one you want if it's not in stock. Perfectly acceptable to change straps; many would say get several kinds, as they will bring new life to a watch.

I personally tend to stick to the original straps or bracelet combinations, but I have purchased a couple of NATO straps, as they do liven-up the look and feel of an old timepiece.

My wrist is small, very small, and all OEM straps tend not to fit perfectly.
All of my watches have after market and custom-made straps, and believe me if I tell you I've acquired experience from buying way too many straps.

Changing the strap will not make your strap look weird, but on the contrary, give it a new life and appeal.
You just have to find the right alternative to go with the look and feel of your watch.

Personally, I would vote against a gator or any other textured leather on an Aquaracer.
The watch is a diver, sport, hardcore-oriented. I don't see a crocodile classy pattern on there.

You might want to consider textile, NATO, nubuck, or cordura.
I'm not talking about the 20$ or buy 1 get 1 free for 30$ straps, but more of the better makes and why not artisans who would customize yours, sometimes for less than what Tag Heuer might charge you.

My 2cents 😀

Bracelet will be my first choice. but i dont think they have original dark bracelet..and lets face it, my black on black aquaracer might look weird with bracelet.

Dark leather will definitely not suitable with the theme but it will be experiment

Just called the boutique, they told me its 600 usd for the gator strap. The customer service told me its not advisable. but the sales assure me it can be done..the weird thing is along checking the strap, i saw mondaine evo big automatic watch and its only like 500 something. Got me thinking do i want new watch or new strap for 600 usd.

What the price range for good NATO strap ?

Thanks

A proper Nato strap starts at 15$ all the way to 40$.
I suggest clockworksynergy - look at their premium nato range. Don't go with the heavy duty, they are thick and bulky.

Also have a look at http://phenomenato.com/ - their finishing is amazing.

Interesting diving straps can also be found at strapcode.com

Finally, http://www.combat-straps.com/default.html - check the canvas offering.

All of these tested and approved by yours truly 😜

See for yourself...



*Note to @Calibre11 - not trying to promote anyone - just helping out a fellow member 😀

Very nice indeed. thanks !

Have a look at the Hirsch Performance range, the Robby for example: http://hirschag.com/product/robby/?lang=en.

I have one of these for my Maurice Lacroix Pontos S. It's very comfortable and works well with a diving watch.

This one looks interesting- http://phenomenato.com/product/phenomenato-strap-dark-blue-polished-hw

Do you think its worth the extra money? Most NATOs are around $15, and these are $40...not a massive difference is terms of absolute dollars, but it would want to be meaningfully better!

Well, the main differentiator is at the buckles / keepers. The Phenomenato are sleeker, and have a better finish.
The premium also comes from the fact that these are made to order, as opposed to mainstream ones found almost anywhere.