Choosing a watch band can be over whelming. Whenever possible it is best to come in to our store so we can properly measure your watch and only show you bands that will fit properly. We will also install your band and when needed size the length to fit your wrist.
When shopping for a watch band, knowledge is key. Ensure you understand the sizing, material, color, and design before making a purchase. That way, you can be sure that you get exactly what you need.
Bands sizes are almost universally measured in millimeters typically ranging from 8mm to 30mm. Those measurements are the width across to match the opening between the watch’s lugs.
The length of the band is usually not shown in specific length. Instead, they generally are listed as Short (S), Regular(R), Long(L) and Extra-long(X). The length will typically increase as the width increases with the thinking that the bigger the watch the bigger the wrist.
To be sure measure the circumference of your wrist in inches, subtract the length of the watch and the result will present a pretty good idea of what size band you will need.
Understanding band terminology
- If the word genuine proceeds descriptions such as lizard, crocodile, Italian etc. it means that the band material is exactly what it says.
- Descriptions like lizard grain, crocodile grain mean that the leather used has been imprinted to resemble a specific grain.
- Rembordé translates to “rolled edge”, meaning you'll find no painted or raw edges along the edge of the watch band
- Vegan- Made from microfibers, fabric or tanned apple skin. Yes apple skin!
Synthetic bands come in 4 major types
Rubber – Longest lasting
An elastic material obtained from the milky sap or latex of various tropical plants, especially the rubber tree, and vulcanized, pigmented, finished, and modified to specific needs
Silicone - Most comfortable
A rubber-like material composed of silicone. During manufacture heat is required to vulcanize (set or cure) the silicone into its rubber-like form.
Polyurethane (aka urethane) – Mid-Grade
Any polymer consisting of a chain of organic units joined by urethane (carbamate) links.
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) - Cheapest
A thermoplastic polymer Polyvinyl chloride is the third most widely produced plastic.
Metal Bands - All the metal bands we sell (link type and flexible) are made from stainless steel. The process of adding color to bands has changed drastically over the years. While luxury watches will often use solid gold and lightweight sport watches may be made from solid titanium most modern watches and bands add color via ionic plating
Ionic plating (IP) is a physical vapor deposition (PVD) process that utilizes concurrent or periodic bombardment of the substrate and depositing atoms of film material by atomic-sized energetic particles. This process is much more durable and longer lasting than electro-plating, which was most common until the turn of the century. The most common materials plated to watch bands are Gold and titanium. Titanium is most often used to create black or gray colored bands.
Black IP (BIP)= titanium plating
Gold IP(GIP) = gold plating.
A new band is a game-changer for watch enthusiasts. It extends the usefulness of your watch, while also allowing you to change its appearance to suit your style.