Where to Get the Best Watch Straps and Bands in Bangkok
Bored with your watch? Shake things up by simply changing the band to a ZULU, NATO, rubber, croc or Paneria-style leather strap.
10 years ago
Crocodile Strap
Crocodile tends to make watches look more dressed up and less sporty, which isn’t really the trend these days. But you can balance that out by getting a matte brown crocodile skin, as opposed to the shiny black ones typically used for dress watches. B2,000.
Shown with: 
1977 Seiko Speedtimer
1977 Seiko SpeedtimerNATO Strap
This military band was used by the UK armed forces, and made iconic by Sean Connery, who wore it while playing James Bond, on a Rolex Submariner. Normally it’s made of tough nylon fabric, but leather looks cool, too. B500 leather (B400 fabric).
Shown with: 
1972 Rolex “Red” Submariner (brown strap),
c. 1971 Omega Memomatic (tan strap),
1972 Rolex “Red” Submariner (brown strap), c. 1971 Omega Memomatic (tan strap), 
1988 Rolex Daytona with Zenith movement (tricolor strap).Silicone Strap
Silicone is more comfortable than some plastics, so look out for that. You’ll also see a lot of dive watch straps with bellows, allowing for the strap to expand and contract. That’s to wear the watch on top of a dive suit, as the suits’ thickness will vary with the depth and pressure. B300.
Shown with: 
1979 Seiko 6309-7049
1979 Seiko 6309-7049Zulu Strap
The Zulu strap is a variation of the Nato, and its bigger, more numerous buckles give it a slightly more adventurous look. B500.
Shown with: 
1971 Rolex “Steve McQueen” Explorer
1971 Rolex “Steve McQueen” ExplorerVintage-style Leather Strap
When made of steel, it’s called a bracelet. When made of fabric or leather, it’s called a band or strap. B1,500 or 1,800 with buckle.
Shown with: 
1998 Panerai Submersible
1998 Panerai Submersible
Where to Buy
All straps shown here courtesy of Free Will Strap. G/F, Thaniya Plaza, corner of Soi Thaniya, Silom Rd. Open Mon-Sat 1-8pm. www.facebook.com/freewillstrap
Although they only sell online, The Leather Project also has a great selection of rugged leather and crocodile straps. www.facebook.com/TheLeatherProject
Another online craftsman in Bangkok is Zirdiva. They have cool designs and they respond quickly to email or Facebook inquiries. www.facebook.com/Zirdiva
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