Strap production is a mystery for many. Even the seasoned staff of the top Swiss manufacturers have a limited idea as to the painstaking work that goes into the straps that hold our precious watch cases on our wrists. We asked our strap supplier based in La Chaux-de-Fonds Switzerland if we could film the processes involved in strap production. Allowing one of their clients to do so is a first and we are honoured to have had the opportunity to capture the fascinating and detailed work that goes into each and every strap.
Click on the above image to view the video on YouTube
Many have asked if we will be providing alligator skin straps with our tourbillon. The simple and short answer is no and this is a choice that we made many years ago. In this post and in the video you will see alligator strap production, this is because on the day we had to film the facility was producing alligator straps for another client. We value sustainability and for us we see a shift in awareness around various animal product productions and this is the reasoning behind our decision to move away from the use of alligator in our products.
Material storage
The tools of the trade
Although alligator is beautiful and is viewed as a historical luxury leather we see a shift in awareness that is bringing more stringent regulations on alligator and a new generation of enthusiasts demanding transparency and understanding of animal product production.
The most progressive state on this subject is California they have outright banned the selling of alligator straps. For Swiss watch brands producing alligator straps, every skin must be accompanied by a certificate of origin and be applied to the exact strap that is completed. Alligators that are used for strap production are approx. 2-2.5 years old when they are processed for their leather. At this age their skin is flatter and optically most appealing. With more stringent controls coming into play and our own desire to work with materials that are part of a larger global sustainable food source we decided to not work with alligator.
The strap production process is nothing short of fascinating. The highly skilled workers are extremely efficient and tirelessly turn out an impressive quantity of straps each day for the premium Swiss watch houses.
The hand work is nothing short of impressive
Brushing adhesive on the strap
Preparing for both machine and hand sewn straps.
A reminder that our tourbillon pre-order starts tomorrow Saturday February 29th. We will have 8 strap options available to choose from.
Until next time...
Landon Stirling
Hi, would it be possible to share the length of the long and short straps for reference? Thanks.
This is such a nice video. Well done Landon 👍