A Fresh Fit: Your Guide to Replacing Watch Straps

1. Why Replace Your Watch Strap?

Over time, even the highest quality watch straps show signs of wear. Replacing the strap can instantly refresh the look of your watch, improve comfort, and extend the life of your timepiece. Whether it’s for style, fit, or function — a new strap can make your watch feel brand new.

2. Signs It’s Time for a Replacement

Look out for these common signs:

- **Cracks or fraying** in leather or fabric straps
- **Stretching or tearing** in  or silicone
- **Broken or stiff links** in metal bracelets
- **Worn spring bars** causing loose fittings
- **Discolouration** from sweat, sunlight, or chemicals

A fresh strap isn’t just cosmetic — it’s essential for safety and longevity.

3. Types of Watch Straps

- **Leather**: Classic, stylish, and versatile — ideal for formal or everyday wear.
- **Stainless Steel**: Durable and elegant, with a premium feel.
- **Mesh or Milanese**: Sleek, modern, and adjustable for comfort.

At Hallmark the Jewellers, we proudly use **LBS Watch Straps** — a leading UK supplier known for their quality and fit. Our in-store collection includes leather, stainless steel, and mesh options to suit a wide range of watch types and styles.

 

Choosing the right strap depends on your lifestyle, watch type, and personal taste.

4. Sizing Matters: Getting the Right Fit

To replace your strap properly, you’ll need to know:

- **Lug Width**: The space between the watch lugs, measured in millimetres (common sizes are 18mm, 20mm, 22mm, etc.)
- **Strap Length**: Standard lengths suit most wrists, but longer or shorter options are available.
- **Spring Bars**: These small metal rods hold your strap in place — they may need replacing too.

If in doubt, bring your watch in and let us measure it for you.

5. Can You Change a Strap Yourself?

Yes — many straps can be swapped at home using a spring bar tool. However, for metal bracelets or luxury watches, we recommend professional fitting to avoid damage.

At Hallmark the Jewellers, we offer a **while-you-wait fitting service** for most strap replacements. We’ll ensure a secure, comfortable fit and even check your watch for wear or damage.

6. When to Choose a Genuine vs Universal Strap

Some watches, especially luxury or branded models, benefit from a **genuine manufacturer strap** — designed specifically for that model. However, **universal straps** can be more affordable and offer greater choice in colour and material.

Our team can help you compare options based on your watch brand, budget, and intended use.

7. Give Your Watch a New Look

A simple strap change can transform your watch from:

- **Workwear to weekend**: Leather to nylon
- **Formal to casual**: Metal to
- **Classic to contemporary**: Black to bold colour

Many customers like to own several straps and rotate them with the seasons or occasions — it’s like having multiple watches in one.

Final Thoughts

Replacing your watch strap is one of the easiest ways to breathe new life into a trusted timepiece. Whether you want to change the look, improve comfort, or replace worn parts, the right strap makes all the difference.

At Hallmark the Jewellers, we stock a wide range of straps and offer expert fitting services — so your watch always feels and looks its best.

Visit Us In-Store

 A better fit starts here.