Hi all, am new to here so here is a question, I was told to post if I want to learn. I've just bought a watch and want to age a strap as the watch is old. What are people doing? I've read some posts but can't see a definitive answer. I like canvas and there are some you can by that are frayed but there aren't lots of suppliers, just one or two. Redrock straps I like but he doesnt make a single pass one. Cheers Mark.

 

I'd try rough sandpaper to see what that looks like.
Probably want to buy a second strap in case that doesn't work out...

 

pictures are always welcome as well when posting about your watch and it's strap companion

 

I believe you can determine its age by counting the growth rings.

 

Wear it all day every day, the strap will age a lot, lot faster than the watch. That's why you can buy replacement straps everywhere. For me a new strap lasts maybe 5 years before either falling apart or smelling too bad

The watch I've owned for over 40 years was shifted to a bracelet for just that problem. And the bracelet itself has needed refurbishment too. You have oil changes for your car, yes? You'll get through straps a little slower, but still get through them.

 

Thanks Martin, a good idea. They aren't expensive so I can have a play.

 

Thanks MRC, I can't really wear a watch daily because of my job. Unless I wear it to and from work. My reason is a watch is old so a new strap looks out of place.

 

What for? What have I done wrong?

 

Well...you could wear them and let them age naturally.

That’s what I did with my favorite band, the Omega replica NASA strap that was included with my standard issue Speedy Gonzales Moonwatch that I received 5 years ago...

 

TF natos.
Sand paper vs. 3 years of wear (not continuous).


I regret sand papering that strap...
Also I clean them after about a weeks wear, they should last a long time.

 

Soaking in weak tea is generally accepted for making something look "dirty".

As for wear, artificial wear almost always looks artificial. Honest wear from use is likely best.

 

Wearing daily, swimming pools and sun help.

I have an OEM green Canvas Strap for my Panerai which in 2 years has aged beautifully with a lighter worn pattern appearing in the middle of the strap (never used in water).

 

Did you say that you are a mechanic? I think there might be opportunity in that wider work environment to artificially age a strap. Personally, I think it's a bit of a daft idea as it never looks particularly good, especially on a nylon strap. Cotton webbing it can look ok but not nylon.

 

steveo has some lovely looking pre-aged (!) canvas Natos:

https://www.steveostraps.com/straps-2/nato-straps

I had a couple of deployants made last year and have been really pleased with his work...

 

Yes, I'm in the motor industry. I'll see what I can dig up, thank you for your input.

 

Just wear it constantly, regular wear during sports, runing, swimming and letting it dry in direct Sun light will do the trick...

 

Hi Simon, thanks for the link. I'll check him out.

 

Hi, I've got an old watch now, thanks for the time to read and message me though.

 

Hey, thanks for the sensible reply and pics. I'll try a few things and look for an old strap to buy. Red rock does some nice ones but not in single pass. It won't be a daily wearer so ageing naturally won't happen. appreciate the message

 

Take it dirt biking in the pouring rain. Crashing in the mud helps. Then throw it in the wash on hot.

worked for me.