Suede and nubuck watch straps
Suede and nubuck are two of the most comfortable leathers you can wear on the wrist. They're soft and pliable from the first day, with no breaking-in, and their matte, textured surface gives a watch a relaxed, understated character. They're especially good with vintage watches, field watches and chronographs, and they bring a softer, more casual feel to a dress watch.
Suede or nubuck?
Suede - made from the inner side of the hide and brushed to create a soft, velvety nap. Our suede comes from Tuscany and has a slightly deeper, more relaxed texture that looks better the more it's worn. We also offer a premium kid suede, which is finer and smoother still.
Nubuck - made from the outer grain side of the hide and lightly buffed to a short, even nap. It's slightly more structured and hard-wearing than suede, with a smooth, velvety touch that customers love as soon as they feel it. Our nubuck is also Italian leather from Tuscany.
Styles
Stitched suede - a flat, fully stitched design that suits almost any watch and works especially well on vintage pieces. It's one of our most popular suede straps, and it's also available with a vintage-style stitch.
Minimal stitch - a cleaner, more modern look that lets the texture of the suede take centre stage.
Padded - a little extra depth for larger or sportier watches.
Rally - a motorsport-inspired design with ventilation holes, ideal for chronographs.
Made to order or ready to wear
Most of our suede and nubuck straps are made to order to your chosen width and length. For something quicker, look at our ready to wear nubuck. To choose your own leather, colour and stitching, design your own strap in the Strap Designer.
FAQs
What's the difference between suede and nubuck?
Suede is made from the inner side of the hide and has a softer, looser nap. Nubuck is buffed from the outer grain side, so it's slightly firmer, finer and more durable. Suede is not durable for every day wear, nubuck is.
Can I wear a suede strap in the rain?
Brief showers won't hurt it, but suede and nubuck don't like getting soaked. If yours gets wet, blot it dry and let it dry naturally, away from direct heat, then brush it lightly to lift the nap.
How do I clean a suede watch strap?
Use a soft suede brush to lift dirt and restore the nap. For marks, a suede eraser works well. Avoid water-based cleaners and leather conditioners.
Does suede suit a dress watch?
It can. A dark brown, navy or grey suede strap gives a dress watch a relaxed, smart-casual feel that works well with tailoring.
