looking to replace the leather strap on my daily chrono with shell cordovan. I wouldn't say that I'm a sweater, but there will obviously be times I will sweat and didn't know if I should get a shell cordovan with a lining or no lining? The only reason I ask is because the vast majority of those straps I see for sell do not have a lining. For those of you that have a cordovan strap, I would greatly appreciate your opinion. Thank you in advance!
If you're a sweater then shell cordovan is not the best option as the rich, oily texture of the hide hurts in dispersing sweat. Those same qualities also make the strap less breathable than other leathers. That being said shell cordovan has almost no break-in period (as mentioned by @M'Bob above), conforms to the wrist incredibly well, keeps it's finish and color well, and ages gracefully. I personally sweat a decent amount and don't really like how it stretches easily so shell cordovan aren't the preferred choice, but those who like them LOVE them.
Those are great points, thank you! Maybe I'll switch to the bracelet in the summer and back to the cordovan when temps go down. The quick break in sounds nice
I have both lined and Unlined. Personally I like a lining on these. That said it's a great material. I use it to dress down a few of my gold watches.
I like the unlined ones. Usually a little cheaper too. And they age well - although @yirzerniner is right about the sweat. But there is nothing like cordovan. Either get new straps more frequently, or get a good leather conditioner (Saphir) and use it regularly.
Depends on the watch. Speedy pro can go unlined or lined. My bigger dive watches need lining/padding. A 34-38 unlined for sure. Too me it's more a factor of Watch thickness.