rdb Report post Posted August 21, 2009 I have a new found respect for watch strap makers. I was asked by a customer to make one in a handmade style becoming quite popular. He asked that it look older, not brand new. No problem for me, cause I'm somewhat crude as it is...lol There really isn't all that much to them, but they do take more time than I thought. There are some tricky parts to shaping the strap from the watch. Starting at say, 22mm down to a billet size to fit the buckle. To much taper, and they look wrong. Not enough, and the billet squeezes too much through the buckle. The picture leaves a lot to be desired. Things stand out, like the holes aren't exactly in line. But in real life, it looks right fine. This was handstitched, double layer veg tan (3/4 oz? about 4mm thick altogether). 22mmm width at the timepiece end. The buckle strap is about 90mm long, including buckle. The billet strap is about 125mm long. At the buckle end, I skived it down so that I could fold it between the top and the back side. I used a saddletan oil mix for color. Snow Proof for finish. I noticed out on the intertubes, that similar straps have raw edges. I couldn't let that happen, so they are waxed and burnished. You may be VERY suprised at the prices on these things. $80-100 is not uncommon. After making one, I'm not...lol. As always, this isn't just about my stuff. Show us yours. Talk about how you go about measuring, and making. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Storm Report post Posted August 21, 2009 Nicely done! I am not surprised at the prices as they are low compared to some. One watch collector I know will buy custom from Hong Kong of all places. And we are talking high hundreds and even thousands. REALLY AMAZING! I don't think that I could do such small work anymore. My fingers are like sauasages! HA! Very Nice Work! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Spider Report post Posted August 22, 2009 I love the work and explanation. Wow I wasn't aware of the price attached to these. I might have to start making them. hmmm Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rdb Report post Posted August 22, 2009 Thanx Spider and Storm... That's my point Spider!. There are a few "masters" of watch straps here, and they occassionally post, but judging from the requests I get out selling, and the searches I've done, there is a much bigger market out there for this type than I thought. And it's a good project for the beginner to learn pattern making, hand sewing, and finish work, without breaking the bank with skins and tools. And to boot, if you get good, there might even be a little monetary reward. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
oldbirchworkshop Report post Posted March 23, 2013 Where do you get buckles this size?? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rdb Report post Posted March 23, 2013 I bought these through Zack White's. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
