About the service
I run a small studio dedicated entirely to handmade leather wristwatch straps, and I take on custom orders for collectors who want a strap that actually fits their case, lugs, and wrist rather than something pulled off a generic rack. Every strap starts with sourcing: I work with vegetable-tanned hides from small tanneries, choosing thickness and temper by how the strap will be worn — a stiffer full-grain cut for a dress watch, a softer shell-cordovan-style panel for daily carry, or a textured exotic-pattern-embossed calf for a bolder look. Before cutting I measure the exact lug width, case thickness, and spring-bar clearance from photos or a physical piece the client sends, so the taper and curve match the lugs instead of leaving gaps at the case.
The construction is entirely hand-stitched using a saddle-stitch technique with waxed linen or polyester thread, pulled through pre-pricked holes with two needles working in opposite directions — this is slower than machine sewing but far more durable, since a single broken stitch cannot unravel the whole seam. I skive and glue the layers before stitching, then burnish every edge by hand with beeswax and a wooden slicker until it is smooth, rounded, and sealed against sweat and moisture. Hardware fitting is its own step: I match buckle and keeper width precisely, fit quick-release or traditional spring bars sized to the lug drilling, and can install a deployant clasp on request, testing the action so the strap sits flush and does not pull to one side.
I keep a portfolio of past commissions organized by lug width and case style so a new client can see a close match before ordering, and I offer a short consultation to confirm color, stitch color contrast, and lining leather before cutting begins. Turnaround for a standard commission is one to two weeks depending on hide availability and hardware sourcing; rush orders are possible for an extra fee. I also offer minor repairs and re-stitching for straps I have previously made, and can replicate a discontinued factory strap pattern from reference photos. If you own a watch that deserves a strap built specifically for it, send me the case details and I will quote a precise turnaround and price before any cutting starts.
The construction is entirely hand-stitched using a saddle-stitch technique with waxed linen or polyester thread, pulled through pre-pricked holes with two needles working in opposite directions — this is slower than machine sewing but far more durable, since a single broken stitch cannot unravel the whole seam. I skive and glue the layers before stitching, then burnish every edge by hand with beeswax and a wooden slicker until it is smooth, rounded, and sealed against sweat and moisture. Hardware fitting is its own step: I match buckle and keeper width precisely, fit quick-release or traditional spring bars sized to the lug drilling, and can install a deployant clasp on request, testing the action so the strap sits flush and does not pull to one side.
I keep a portfolio of past commissions organized by lug width and case style so a new client can see a close match before ordering, and I offer a short consultation to confirm color, stitch color contrast, and lining leather before cutting begins. Turnaround for a standard commission is one to two weeks depending on hide availability and hardware sourcing; rush orders are possible for an extra fee. I also offer minor repairs and re-stitching for straps I have previously made, and can replicate a discontinued factory strap pattern from reference photos. If you own a watch that deserves a strap built specifically for it, send me the case details and I will quote a precise turnaround and price before any cutting starts.
