Any favorite tricks to repair/patch/stabilize a cracking inside layer on a vintage Omega leather band?

I couldn't find much on OF or elsewhere. Plenty of material on car seat cracking repair etc. but the 'liquid leathers' and leather repair compounds available seemed geared towards filling versus structurally stabilizing.

Band looks/wears fine from the outside but a bit of a mess internally. Can't remember if a NOS buy or if it came with the watch but we have a lot of history together (I've got a few cracks/wrinkles myself) and would like to save if possible.

Thanks in advance.

 

A craftsman could probably add a new backing layer, but frankly I can't imagine that being worthwhile for a watch strap unless it has sentimental value. They don't last forever, and old leather loses its integrity.

 

Only idea I have would be to get somebody to fit a new under section of leather and restitch it back together.

EDIT, Dan S beat me to it.

 

That band is due to be replaced, I wouldn't even think of fooling around and trying to save it. The effort/cost isn't worth it, get a new band.

 

Save the buckle and look for a replacement. I don't think Omega will have a direct replacement but you could ask. If not, there are plenty of aftermarket strap makers.

 

One point to add is that wear and tear to a strap can be reduced by using a generic deployant clasp. Too late for this strap obviously, but something to keep in mind.

 

Straps are wear parts.

 

Totally agree with you. For 18mm straps, a deployant clasp can be bulky though. Personal preference.

 

I agree. I recently got one and I was rather disappointed by how bulky it is

 

Shoe repairers use a flexible glue for soles, might work??

 

I know what you mean, I had a bag repaired recently, but I think this strap is a bit too far gone for that

 

Appreciate the comments.

Not being a penny-pincher here, though certainly the wife and kids have accused me of 'excess frugality' over the years

It's a moderately sentimental band that still looks great from the outside so I'll dabble with some home-brew fixes. Nothing to lose and plenty of nice alternatives if it all fails. Excuses to try something new are good too...

 

nothing to lose except your watch when your home-brew fix fails and the strap tears completely. I’m sorry, but this is like keeping 20-year old tires on your car because they’re original. If you want to keep the strap for sentimental reasons, keep it in your watch box OFF the watch and look at it from time to time to let the memories come back. Please buy a new strap for that watch!

 

Should we start a GoFundMe page for the OP?

 

Hey now! No need to line up the charity wagon

I’ll self-fund a couple of nice replacement straps for variety. Current strap is not that sentimental - repair attempts, if any are made, will be tested without risk to watch.

 

I’ve already given to the Rolex victims fund

 

Be certain to let us know how this turns out. When the leather was still on the animal, it likely would heal itself. I wonder if a vet could help!

 

I have done lots of experimentation with leather.

There is nothing that can be done with that strap. Time for the bin!!

 

https://www.bandrbands.com/Classic-Vintage-Watch-Bands.aspx this website has a lot of cool bands. I use it for NATOs and they are of great quality, I am sure the leather straps are also great