This incident sparked heated discussion among online users. Should leather watch straps really be replaced every year? Are leather straps that fragile? This brings us to a fundamental question: how should you maintain a leather strap to extend its service life?
1. Leather straps hate water most of all. Never submerge them in water for long periods. Prolonged exposure to water, sweat or chemicals will cause the leather to age, harden and turn brittle. The small retaining loops on the strap are also prone to cracking and deforming. Therefore, do not wear your leather‑strap watch while swimming, taking hot baths or visiting saunas.
2. Extended exposure to strong sunlight will fade the strap and speed up leather ageing. Keep it away from direct sunlight for long periods.
3. Avoid pulling the strap forcefully when putting on the watch. Cracks tend to form at the points where the strap is constantly bent. The deeper the bend, the higher the risk of breakage. You should therefore handle and fasten the strap gently.
What are the maintenance methods for wooden watch straps? Compared with other materials, metal watch straps are relatively easy to maintain. During wear, keep the strap away from corrosive liquids as much as possible. Avoid wearing the watch during strenuous exercise, since heavy external force or impacts may cause the strap to break. Stains left on the strap after sweating in daily use can be rinsed off with clean water and wiped dry with a soft cloth. If the strap shows signs of wear, or if there are abnormalities in the connection and function of strap links or the clasp, please send it to a professional service centre for inspection and repair in a timely manner.
Rubber Straps
Ceramic watch straps generally boast good corrosion‑resistance and heat‑resistance. Despite their high hardness, you should avoid friction and impacts with objects of equal or greater hardness during daily wear. When dirt builds up from long‑term use, simply scrub the strap gently with a small toothbrush dipped in soap. Apart from leather straps, the other three types of straps mentioned above should be kept free of dust accumulation. If stains appear on the strap, you may give it a light brush‑cleaning with a toothbrush, provided you confirm that the watch’s water‑resistance is intact.
