Tested: The Best Leather Watch Straps for Classier Wrist Presence

You shouldn’t let the strap dictate whether or not you should pull the trigger and finally purchase that watch you’ve been eyeing for months, even years. After all, a beautiful timepiece can and should be able to adapt to different types of bands. One style that’s always been a favorite amongst collectors is leather. Capable of plussing up your dive watch or chronograph, the material is easy to come by but not all leather straps are made the same. With the preponderance of after-market options, we’ve compiled our favorites in this guide to the best leather straps to add to your collection.

How We Tested

Third-party straps are sort of a niche market, even for many, if not most, knowledgable watch enthusiasts. While previously familiar with each brand featured in this guide, we did take extra steps to research what else was out there. However, we were still led back to these favorites tested here. Before we tested, we scoured the space in order to make our initial shortlist. Our criteria covered aesthetic, size and color options, price, leather type, and construction methods.

From there, we sourced our units for testing and spent time with each of these straps, throwing them on either a vintage Seiko 6139 –– a 39mm stainless steel case with a 19mm lug width –– or a Hamilton Intra-Matic chronograph with a 40mm steel case and a 20mm lug width. As such, the bands in this guide are either 19mm or 20mm. When wearing each strap, we looked at comfort, ease of use, wearability, wrist presence, weight, and just the whole user experience. Our results are detailed below.

What to Look For

Leather Type: There are several types of leather out there, from suede to full-grain, and each one will have a different effect on the overall appearance of your watch on your wrist, while also being a factor in the pricing of the strap.

Hardware: Along with the strap material is the hardware material, which is almost always made from stainless steel. In fact, all the options we tested were just that.

Width: Make sure you know the dimensions of your timepiece before picking a strap size. Most straps come in at least 3 or 4, if not more, sizes. And many strap websites will have sizing guides to help you figure out which option to go with.

Color/Design: Like leather type, the color and design of your band will be determined by the color and/or type of watch you’re pairing it with. If you have a racing chronograph, there’s a chance you’ll want a racing strap, or at least something to match the controlled chaos of the dial. As far as color, you may want the same hue as your dial and/or case, or you may want a complementary shade. It may help to look at examples of similar pairings online before making your pick.

Comfort: Unlike silicone or NATO, leather straps aren’t always known for their on-wrist comfort. When wearing something to elevate the look of your watch, comfort might be something you’re willing to forego. However, some people won’t be as willing to make that sacrifice and will want to keep this in mind when shopping for your strap.

Price: As you’ll see below, leather straps can range in price quite drastically. This will be determined by construction techniques, batch size (e.g., “made to order” straps), and leather type.

Crown & Buckle Rallye

Best Racing Strap: Racing-inspired chronographs have often become synonymous with a certain type of leather strap. Originally popping up in the ‘70s, the uniquely perforated pattern was designed to mimic that of the cars. Featuring a 5mm contoured design, this Rallye calfskin band from Crown & Buckle is emblematic of the specific style, with a trio of large holes at the top and padding around the holes for comfort. A super affordable addition to any racing chronograph that doesn’t already have one, the strap is also adorned with off-white stitching and a 16mm hybrid buckle.

The Good

I was more excited about trying this Crown & Buckle Rallye strap than any other leather band I tested. Largely because it just looked so good, from the gradual circular holes to the contrast from the tan stitching. Upon testing, my colleagues expressed their own enthusiasm about the strap, inquiring about the price and being surprised to discover it’s actually the most affordable on this guide.

If you just look at the Rallye strap, we don’t have to tell you how evocative it is of racing culture, especially during its ’60s and ’70s heyday. As expected, the band looks amazing on the wrist and elevates the Seiko I joined it with. While the strap could have been more comfortable on the wrist, its looks made up for any shortcomings in that regard.

The Not So Good

Most of the issues I had with the Rallye strap were related to its stiffness (at least right out of the box) . For one, it was noticeably tough to find the right notch. While many straps will have a perfect option so that it’s not too loose, not too tight, this strap was either one or the other. Worn loose, the dial kept getting stuck towards the back end of my wrist. Worn tight, the strap felt a bit suffocating. Also, the fixed loop (there’s also an adjusted loop) was a bit close to the buckle, which made the stiff strap difficult to thread through.

It’s worth mentioning that I’ve only been testing this strap setup for a few weeks, and I do imagine the leather will break in and form to my wrist a bit better over the months and years to come.

Verdict: The best-looking strap on this list, the Crown & Buckle Rallye is a fan favorite for a reason, evoking retro racing culture of the ’60s and ’70s. It looks so good, in fact, that it nearly makes up for any shortcomings elsewhere, such as its stiffness. Difficult to find the perfect notch, the strap still elevates your watch’s wrist presence, and for a fair price.

Windup Watch Shop Sackett

Best Suede Strap: Suede leather can be an appealing option for its stylish versatility and uniqueness. The Windup Watch Shop has its own suede option with the Sackett strap, a classy addition to any dress or casual watch. Available in juniper green, espresso brown, caramel brown, storm gray, and cinder gray — all with matching thread — the Italian-made Sackett has a subtle suede nap and can be worn with a variety of outfits. The inside sports a soft lining that feels nice against your wrist.

The Good

Supremely soft both inside and out, the Sackett strap from the Windup Watch Shop is a fun pick, and we absolutely loved the juniper green colorway, which brings a sense of uniqueness to the wrist without becoming a non-option for many watches; this color can go well with a variety of references. I loved the classic leather scent of the band, which adds a “leatherworks” feel to the experience of wearing it. This was also one of the more comfortable options I tested, with the soft underbelly of the band feeling nice against my skin.

While you only get three size options, one of those sizes is 19mm, which isn’t as common on third-party straps. Also, the metal hardware on the Sackett felt the really high-end compared to most of the others here. However, it wasn’t specified whether this was stainless steel, but I have a hunch that it is.

The Not So Good

The overall experience of wearing the Sackett was a positive one, yet there were some nitpicks I had. For one, the end of the band was a bit too short. And because of the suede texture, I had an issue threading it through the fixed loop towards the buckle, even after adjusting. Likewise, the strap is a bit thin for my liking. It’s still the same 19mm as other straps but the stitching placement and low 3mm contouring gave it the effect of thinness.

Also, keep in mind that suede inherently doesn’t handle moisture well. As such, if you get this wet at any point, make sure it’s fully dry before storing it away at the end of the day. That said, I was surprised how little the color of the Sackett changed when it got wet.

Verdict: Exceptionally soft against the skin, the Sackett from Windup Watch Shop was perhaps the most comfortable we tested. A genuine conversation starter, the strap sports a unique juniper green colorway and has high-quality hardware. Good sizing options and a decent price cause the downsides to feel quite small.

Windup Watch Shop Wyckoff

Best Pebble-Grained Leather Strap: Another quality pick from the Windup Watch Shop is this pebble-grained leather strap called the Wyckoff. Available in four colorways in shades of brown or gray, and in the same lengths as the Sackett, the band has a bit more limitation and is better suited for dress watches and the like. It utilizes the same soft inner lining and Italian construction. Cut straight with a three-quarter stitch, the beautiful leather can also develop a patina over time.

The Good

If you’re looking for a traditional leather strap option, the Wyckoff is a fantastic option. Not only was it the easiest to attach via spring bars but its also incredibly understated, which is a reason why many people choose leather in the first place. Like the Sackett, this band has a delightful leather scent, like a classic belt or bifold wallet. Well-priced and easy to take on and off, it also has that same soft inner lining that feels so nice against the skin.

Available in a handful of versatile colorways, we went with mahogany, which gave my watch enough character without making too much of a statement. This is pebble-grained leather crafted in Italy but unlike other pebble-grained options, the pebbles themselves aren’t overemphasized in a way that could be tacky. Compared to other stiffer options, the pliability of this had a nice balance. Likewise, it sports the same quality hardware as the Sackett, also from Windup Watch Shop.

The Not So Good

There aren’t a lot of downsides to the Wyckoff. I suppose it could have more size options. But like the Sackett, it comes in the three most common sizes (19mm, 20mm, and 22mm). Likewise, 19mm isn’t as popular with third-party brands. Also like the Sackett, the low 3mm taper here gives the illusion that the strap is thinner than it is. However, the lack of suede (i.e., the flatness) helps in that regard.

Verdict: Highly versatile yet classy in appearance, the Wyckoff from the Windup Watch Shop is a superb pebble-grained option for dress watches, yet without the emphatic pebbles of some tackier versions of this style. We loved the authentic leather smell, the color options, and even the hardware quality. Similar to its Sackett brethren above, this band’s downsides were few and far between. Pick this one up for a pretty good price to boot.

Molequin Taupe

Best for Dive Watches: Dive watches aren’t strangers to leather bands, per se. Although, the material isn’t necessarily the most popular in the category. Molequin’s Taupe leather strap seeks to defy the norm thanks to its versatile light brown color, white stitching, and pebble grain texture. The taupe shade can blend in if it needs to but also be a conversation starter on certain pieces. Sporty yet classy like many dive pieces aim to be, this band runs the gamut of 17mm in width to 22mm and is constructed of grained calfskin leather.

The Good

I loved everything from the beige contrast stitching to the premium buckle hardware of the Molequin Taupe. The strap felt really nice on the skin, although I wish I had gone with a longer size (the “short” option was too short). Also, the Taupe colorway was exceptionally versatile. It sort of chameleoned to the black-colored dial of my vintage Pulsar, appearing darker than it was, but also really complemented the lighter silver dial of the Seiko I initially paired it with.

I also commend the brand for truly bringing a customizable feeling to the strap-buying experience. We were able to pick our size from 17mm all the way up to 22mm, along with the strap length (short or medium). Buckle options included standard, premium, and both brushed and polished gold-plated steel, which you might pick if you had a gold-colored case. Another benefit of the Molequin strap is the implementation of the quick-release spring bar, which means that it’s built into the strap itself. The downside is that you can’t replace it that easily if it’s slightly off in size.

The Not So Good

Easily the biggest issue with any of the straps we tested was the Molequin’s sizing issues. We got hands-on with a 19mm size option but the quick-release spring bar was slightly too short. And so, we had issues getting this on the same Seiko as the other straps. To ensure it didn’t fall off while we were wearing it, we got a hold of an 18mm watch and used it with that instead. Typically a watch strap can go up or down 1mm in size but here I was definitely couldn’t use it with a 20mm watch, let alone a 19mm watch.

It’s important to mention the steeper price here, which only goes up when you add upgrades, such as premium hardware. Also, as I mentioned, make sure you carefully select the length size because it could result in a strap that’s too short.

Verdict: Aside from our issues with the quick-release spring bar (it wouldn’t fit our initial watch), the Molequin Taupe is an exceptionally versatile strap with serious class. We loved the plethora of customization options along with the soft wrist feel. If you’re willing to go upwards of $112, you won’t mind having fun with this one.

David Lane Design Mil Spec Strap

Best NATO Strap: Originally made for the British Ministry of Defence, NATO straps are simply bands that thread through the back of the watch rather than get harnessed in with spring bars. NATOs aren’t the first type you think of when you think of leather (and vice versa; NATOs are usually made of nylon) but David Lane makes one of the finest options around. Constructed of either Horween shell cordovan or calf suede (we tested the calf suede), the Mil-Spec Strap NATO band is one of the best options for pairing with chronographs or pilot’s watches. It also comes in a handful of different colors, all of which pair with polished stainless steel hardware.

The Good

As we said, a NATO-style strap might be controversial for this list, but it shouldn’t be. David Lane’s Mil-Spec Strap is as good of a leather strap as you’d want, even if it’s bucks tradition. Incredibly supple and soft against the skin, this band felt better than nearly any on this list. If you’re not into leather for its rigidity then you’ll appreciate how soft this one is. Also, it stretches really well, which is completely against type; it feels almost cotton-like in its lack of restrictiveness.

While not quite as premium as the Molequin options, the David Lane’s hardware is still pretty sturdy. With five size choices, the strap also comes in a handful of color options if you peruse the brand’s website.

The Not So Good

Although I was looking forward to the leather smell with this one, the David Lane strap simply lacked it, which is a bit of a nitpick but here we are. And while the subtle brown highlight stitching complements the brown of the leather, I would’ve probably preferred either an exact match or a complete contrast like off-white or light gray.

On the wrist, my biggest complaint is how easily this one comes out of the metal loops when it’s rolled back over the top. One of the times I wore it, the entire strap came all the way undone, which isn’t really ideal. Admittedly, this is due to the supple nature of the strap’s material. I should also mention that these straps take up to two months to receive after ordering online. However, that’s just because they’re made to order, thus speaking volumes about the quality of these bands.

Verdict: Pricey whether you’re going for a leather or NATO option, the David Lane Mil-Spec Strap still has a premium feel, including the choice of leather options and stainless steel hardware. For the suede version, the strap itself is incredibly supple yet the softness did give the strap issues when it came to staying inside the loops. Nevertheless, this strap is supremely comfortable.

Leather Watch Straps Comparison Chart

Types of Leather Watch Straps

Standard: Your classic leather strap will be fairly understated for the most part. It might be flat, pebble-grained, or glossy cordovan, but it will also be quite versatile in usage, whether you’re looking to pair it with pilot’s watches, dress watches, or chronographs.

Suede: More of an effect done to the leather than a type of leather, per se, suede is a solid option for dress watches or field watches. Keep in mind, suede doesn’t clean easily or always handle moisture well but it will elevate your look significantly.

Racing/Rally Strap: Popular during the sport’s heyday in the ’60s and ’70s, these straps can range from uneven perforation or large circular holes. Typically “puffier” than their dress-oriented counterparts, these leather straps go amazingly with chronographs.

Bund Strap: Popular among fighter pilots to protect their skin from the heat conducting through the backs of their timepieces, Bund straps transcended utility to become a style symbol in the 1970s; a favorite among the likes of Paul Newman, Steve McQueen, and Miles Davis. These will almost exclusively be paired with pilot’s watches.

Honorable Mentions

Hirsch’s JAMES is an incredibly handsome watch strap. However, $149 is a lot to pay for a third-party watch strap but if you’re already spending thousands of dollars on a watch, what’s the extra cash for something as classy as this?

Best Bund Strap: Popular with aviation pilots back in the day to protect their skin from hot metal, bund straps are a bit antiquated but can add some style to your wrist. Made from wax calfskin, this version from The Strap Tailor is beautiful and can be customized well. On the other hand, because they’re so customizable, they’re made to order and we weren’t able to get a unit for testing.

Zuludiver’s British Military Watch Strap is another NATO-style leather strap like the David Lane above. However, the latter is a bit classier, a la traditional leather straps, and so we went with that one instead.

Leather is a source of contention for many consumers, which is why those people prefer faux leather options. This Vegan Pineapple from Hodinkee isn’t just sustainable but has a cool aesthetic. Unfortunately, they were out of stock when we were testing.

If you want to fine-tune your leather strap, head over to Seventh Creation‘s Etsy shop where you’ll find tons of made-to-order options for your strap that are surprisingly more elevated than most other options. However, like the bund above, these were not possible to get for testing.

Cordovan leather isn’t super common these days but this Chicago Genuine Shell Cordovan Leather Watch Strap from RIOS1931 is a popular, classy, and affordable pick for those who like it as an option.

Tested: The Best NATO Watch Straps

If leather is not quite adventurous enough for you, check out the bands on our guide to the best NATO straps, where we tested out some of our favorite durable offerings.