As I mentioned in my intro post, I've been looking hard at the 3861 Speedmaster. I feel like I've decided on the Hesalite version although that appears to change by the minute . During my search I've seen it mentioned that one of the big advantages of the Speedmaster is its immense versatility when it comes to straps. I would be interested to know what are the best places to see and purchase straps from.

TIA

 

Check out combat_straps on insta.

 

omega

 

Google watch straps. You'll get quite a few hits, with wide price range.

 

I'll continue to do that. I was more interested in recommendations based on other user's experiences.

 

Hadley has many options at a range of price points.

 

Welcome, Brian. Speedies are strap monsters and chameleons. Personally, I think they kill on natos, and I’m biased for the cheaper kinds. The Omega website has a strap “visualizer” thing at the bottom of the page; go to the 3861’s page and scroll down to play with different strap options. Me, personally, I would never buy Omega branded straps, but I do hear good reports from those who have.

Google nato watch straps and the top non-advertised sites will likely be your best bets.

Good luck.

 

Welcome @http410

I am a bracelet guy typically but never liked the 1171 that came on my Speedy (hair puller).
I have both the Uncle Seiko Holzer and Flatlink bracelets which totally change the character of the watch.
I have found that I prefer unpadded slim straps with a taper of 20/16 on these (which is the classic size they came with back in the day).
Some food for thought from Milano
https://www.milanostraps.com/products/grey-hammered-calfskin-ecru-stitches-watch-strap


Or Fluco


https://holbensfinewatchbands.com/products/fluco-montana-goatskin-leather-watch-strap-green


I have had everything on mine from tan calf and suedes to shell cordovan and NATO’s. You really can’t go wrong with almost anything.

 

https://www.genteel-handmade.com/
Does a great job. They are more on the expensive side, but I purchased one from them and am well pleased.

 

Too bad this is no longer a sticky thread.
https://omegaforums.net/threads/«wa...-buy-good-quality-leather-watch-straps.82232/

 

Really appreciate all the replies. Thanks for helping me out!

 

The visualizer is pretty nice. I've never used nato straps but this watch seems to thrive on it so that's what I'm digging in to.

 

+1 for Genteel Handmade. His bespoke straps are the work of a craftsman, and wear very well. The Ready to Wear collection varies from time to time, and offers nice options which ship fairly quickly. I’ve also ordered straps from Bulang & Sons. Their website has a ton of options, and their Speedmaster strap guide has some great looking watch and strap combinations for inspiration!

 

I'll second the recommendation for Genteel, a very professional strap maker, I've ordered at least six straps from George. He also carries some ready-to-wear straps now which will cost right at $100 delivered to your door.

 

I’ve had excellent straps and service from Bulang & Sons — not cheap, but they have some great options for Speedies that are beautifully made and durable and they tend to have a few sales each year.

 

How about your lokal watch maker, they need to live too, and you may need them some day. I have gotten some Hirsh straps in leather and rubber from them, good quality.

 

I just received my custom Chromexcel strap from Delugs, and I love it!

A good number of leather/material options, including some alligator and shell cordovan, and the extra cost to customize something is relatively small. Made-to-Order (MTO) straps offer a few core customization options and cost an extra US$10. Bespoke straps cost an extra US$20, but they offer many more options.

Evidently, I have skinny wrists, so deployant clasps, in particular, are usually way off-center, and I have a lot of extra material to tuck in. It was great to be able to customize the lengths for both parts and specify the location and spacing of the holes.

I'm still breaking it in, but I'm impressed so far.

 

I've ordered straps from Veblenist and Atelier Del Sur, and had good experiences with both. Just ordered a strap from The Strap Tailor in England, and when I get it I'll be happy comment on it. For lower priced straps I've bought a couple from Barton that are good for the price point. Watch Gecko also has reasonably priced straps.

 

Hi @http410

If you're really into straps you can also give a look at all the different 'straps review' from fratellowatches.
https://www.fratellowatches.com/?s=strap+review
A good source of inspirations.

From a personal experience, Torre on IG is also a very great strap maker, GLCstraps are good quality at an attractive price point to me, Molequin are doing good straps too. I am still to try Genteel (especially attracted by the ostrich leg ones) but that's on my list, and the above comments confirm that I should go for it.

My last bit of advice : go for quick release spring bars option for your straps as it will make it very easy (and fun) to change on a regular basis.

Enjoy your watch.

 

I've had success with Veblenist and Genteel when it comes to leather.

If you want off the shelf, I've had good luck with Holbens.