A Guide to Metal Watch Straps
A metal watch strap can bridge the gap between stylish and sporty. They are extremely durable and manufactured to suit all weathers. But are they the right choice for you? Read on to find out the answers to frequently asked questions about metal watch straps.
In This Guide
Benefits of Metal Watch Straps
We use stainless steel to create all of our metal watch straps, which is not only water resistant but non-absorbent, making them much more suitable for hot weather and exercise. Leather and fabric watch straps tend to absorb moisture and can cause mild discomfort for some wearers.
With the right care, one of our watch straps can last just as long as the watch to which it's attached. Our PVD plating not only gives our gold, black and rose gold watch straps their colour, it also provides an extra layer of protection and resistance. Plus, our stainless steel watch straps are extremely easy to clean and very versatile. A metal watch strap will sit just as well beside a sports watch for active and casual looks, as well as more formal and smart outfits.
Types of Metal Watch Straps
We currently sell three styles of metal watch band in a choice of styles and finishes: watch bracelets, mesh watch bands and expanding watch straps. Learn more about them below.
Mesh (AKA Milanese Mesh) watch straps
For those dressy occasions that require a watch that just screams style. Very understated and just the thing to let your watch do all the talking. A true classic.
Metal watch bracelets
These are our most functional clasped straps, which are both durable and easy to maintain. Whether you’re looking to dress up your current watch or add an extra bit of flair to your stylish gym look, you’ll find a watch bracelet that suits your look.
Expanding watch straps
The most practical of our watch straps. There’s no clasp, so putting it on is as easy as pulling it over your hand. It stretches to suit your wrist, so you don’t have to worry about the fit being too tight. They look just as good in the office as they do when you hit the town.
How to Choose a Metal Watch Strap
There are a couple of things to consider when choosing a replacement for your metal watch strap, but first and foremost you need to know the lug width of your watch. This will ensure that the watch strap you choose is compatible with your watch. See our size guide for more details.
It also goes without saying that the type of watch you’re buying a replacement strap for plays a huge part in which watch strap you choose, as what works well with a chunky bracelet style strap isn’t necessarily going to sit well with a classic dress watch. Be sure to take into account personal style as well.
For a more comprehensive idea on the metal watch straps we offer, our buying guide has further tips.
How to Fit or Shorten a Metal Watch Strap
Adjusting your metal watch strap at home might seem a hassle and yet, with some guidance (and a couple of nifty tools), you’ll be able to do it yourself. Check out our watch strap fitting guide.
How to Clean a Metal Watch Strap
One of the best qualities of a metal watch strap is how easy it is to maintain them. Keeping them clean is incredibly simple and the only thing you might need to get the job done properly is a microfibre cloth. A quick polish with one of these on a regular basis is usually all one needs to keep the strap in tip-top condition. Just make sure you get right down into the link grooves to get rid of any rogue dirt or dust.
If you feel the need to give your watch strap a more comprehensive refresh, then warm (not hot) soapy water will do the trick. Scrub very gently along the watch bracelet with a soft cloth, but do not be tempted to use anything abrasive. While you might feel a toothbrush would make short work of the cleaning job, you run the risk of scratching the metal. Once the watch strap is clean and all the dirt has been removed, rinse off the soap with warm water and dry the watch strap with a soft cloth.
As long as you give the watch strap a regular wipe and polish after wearing, you should dramatically reduce the need for deep cleaning as it will stop any dust, dirt or moisture from settling in.
Whatever your style of watch, there’s a metal watch strap out there to complement it – and if it’s your first time buying a metal band for your watch, then we hope we’ve given you the information you need to make your first time as comfortable as possible. Don’t forget to check out our full range before you buy.
