Selecting the perfect leather watch straps is something dear to my heart! Not that I’m vain, fussy or particular…. but every day I match my watch strap with my belt and my shoes to make sure everything is fully coordinated. My wife says I’m a little vain. Today, for instance, I’ve paired the blue calfskin watchstrap on my Panerai PAM03314, to my navy and sapphire pampa diamond pattern Pampeano Polo Belt and my dark brown wax calf Pembroke Oxfords from Crockett & Jones. 

Paired with some faded Gant denims and a Charles Tyrwhitt white button-down shirt and you’ve got a winning combo….at least that how it makes me feel!

There’s something quietly confident about a watch on a leather strap. It doesn’t need to shout. It doesn’t need to compete. It simply complements. Whether you’re dressing for the boardroom or Sunday brunch, the right leather strap can transform a timepiece from everyday companion to statement piece. And let’s be honest – swapping straps is the easiest way to freshen up your wrist game without having to fork out for a new watch.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about leather watch straps: from types of leather and strap styles to sizing tips, British strap brands, colour matching, and how to match straps to your watch and wardrobe.

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The leather basics: what are leather watch straps made of?

Not all leather is created equal. When it comes to men’s leather watch straps, material matters – both in look and longevity. Here are some of the most common leather types you’ll find on some of my favourite watches:

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Vegan leather straps

Then there’s vegan leather watch strap – a rising category that’s worth keeping an eye on. While it’s not as prevalent among traditional British watch straps just yet, brands are beginning to explore eco-conscious materials that don’t sacrifice style.

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British leather strap brands to know

If you’re based in the UK or just fancy supporting homegrown talent, there are some cracking leather watch strap brands worth checking out. These two watch strap makers combine traditional craftsmanship with modern design:

• WatchGecko – A strap powerhouse. Their catalogue includes everything from rally to vintage styles in nearly every finish. These are among the most accessible watch straps UK collectors can rely on. Take a look at sister brand Geckota, a micro brand UK watch company, with some great looking watches at a very affordable price.

• The Strap Tailor – Bespoke and proudly independent. Specialising in exotic leathers like lizard and stingray, they cater to the strap-curious and the style-savvy alike.

These British watch straps prove that you don’t need to cross the pond to find serious quality. From handmade to mass-market, there’s a UK-based option to suit your style and your budget.

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Matching leather straps to watch styles & more

As I said earlier, I have a fanatical desire to match a watch strap both to the watch and to my entire outfit. For me, straps have to match shoes and belts too..!!

Let’s start of by matching leather to metal!

• Dress watches – Stick with black or dark brown, preferably calfskin or alligator. These should be slim, unpadded, and elegant.
• Field watches – Go with a rugged brown leather strap, or even a bund if you’re feeling adventurous. Earth tones suit these watches perfectly.
• Chronographs – Rally straps were made for these. Add some contrast stitching and it’ll look purpose-built.
• Dive watches – You won’t wear them in water, but a black or brown leather strap makes divers look classy on land. Just make sure the strap is thick enough to balance the case. If you’re going in the water, make sure you swap it out for a rubber watch strap. More on those in a future journal.
• Vintage watches – Suede, faded tan leathers, or hand-stitched options add a lovely nostalgic vibe.

Each strap can change the entire personality of your timepiece. It’s a subtle change, but one that’ll be noticed by anyone who knows their way around a watch box.

Now to match with your outfit. The golden rule? Co-ordinate, don’t clash.

• Black leather strap – Goes with black, navy or grey suits, dress shoes, and monochrome outfits.
• Brown leather strap – Pair with tan boots or shoes, brown belts, or casual denims.
• Burgundy or oxblood leather straps – Surprisingly versatile. Looks sharp with navy or charcoal clothing.
• Tan or beige leather straps – Best for summer styles or to highlight light-coloured dials.
• Olive, navy, or grey leather straps – Work well with military-style watches and casual wear.

Strap colour can also play off the watch dial. If you’ve got a luxury watch with a blue second hand, like an Omega Aqua Terra, try a royal blue or navy strap. If you have a luxury watch like a rose gold IWC Portuguese with gold indices, a brown leather strap will lift it up fantastically. If you want some contrast? A white dial Panerai with a tan strap is always a winner.

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