The Breitling Watch Source Forums

Hello,
I am going through a phase of the STRAP!.... yes the bracelet is off and the strap is on.....

Can I please have opinions of the following straps with my 2 favorite chronographs.

AM I CRAZY OR IS THIS JUST A SHORT TERM THING?

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I need more watches....

The Navi certainly screams 'look at me'.

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You're certainly not crazy, it's perfectly normal to experiment with different straps.

Your's are very colorful!

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Collection: http://s540.photobucket.com/albums/gg32 ... mview=grid

I like the strap on your Navitimer. I don't think the blue strap goes with the Speedmaster though. But, No don't be afraid.

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Regards,

Mike

I like straps in general, although I always tend to insist on OEM.

I've never been a fan of sharkskin, but the croc/aligator is nice.

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Driver8

Site Moderator

Except I don't really insist on OEM. The fact that most Breitlings I have/had were on OEM is simply because Breitling seem to produce excellent quality straps that were designed to really enhance the particular models character very very well. Hence the need was never there to go third party, with the notable exception of my Blacksteel. The Black croco with red stiching REALLY makes the watch IMVHO!

I would experiment with different straps Archie, it adds a lot of fun to the usual rotation. The croc you have there looks good though the color is not for me.

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Certified watch nut.

OEM straps are way over priced..... I asked my Breitling agent for a pricing on a strap and buckle for my navi....

It was like $800- !

WTF

If it was $200, or $300 that would be ok..... but $800- is just insane......

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I need more watches....

Get a new AD.

Last croc and deployant combo I bought was Canadian $450 - taxes in.

I also went to a non Breitling AD last week and while I was trying on a Lange & Sohne the AD was looking at my Complications 19 which was on the croc that day. She commented about the quality of the Breitling strap. If someone who deals with Lange & Sohne thinks that Breitling strap quality is worthy of mention that tells you all you need to know.

The yellow definately works on the Navi, but am afraid of the blue one!

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Cheers,
Christopher

Currently...
Blackbird, Black Hercules, PAM 000
Down to a humble three...

I am a big fan of color! rock on!!

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Rolex 42mm Explorer
IWC Ingenieur

A few others too.

No, I don't agree with the other post, I think you are crazy. On the other hand, I agree with the idea that oem straps are riduculously priced. So maybe not too crazy. A top quality alligator stap can be had for 200 or so. Just go to timezone and look. I'll post a pic of mine when I get a chance. It is stunning on the Nav.

Each to their own at the end of the day, but I thoroughly believe you only get what you pay for.

And to me I just accept that this hobby/obsession/passion/whatever-you-want-to-call-it of ours IS an expensive business, and I personally don't like to cut corners. I personally always prefer Breitling OEM, and if it's expensive and I want it, I just save up for longer. But hey, that's just me and I'm odd!

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Driver8

Site Moderator

I would agree in most cases, but sometimes it is necessary to find other ways, or "cut corners". Unfortunately Breitling doesn't offer a hornback strap, or straps with matching stitching (to either the strap or the dial - unless you have a white dial).

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Collection: http://s540.photobucket.com/albums/gg32 ... mview=grid

You're absolutely right - in which case it's not cutting corners. Like a black strap with red stitching for a Blacksteel for example. Sorry, I should've mentioned that in my post!

I was thinking more in terms of wanting the OEM look but buying a cheap aftermarket version because of the price. To me (and this is only my personal opinion) that is a shame as it IS cutting corners. To quote Roff from an earlier thread, "you wouldn't wear a silk tie with a polyester shirt!"

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Driver8

Site Moderator

There is no dought that OEM straps are a bit too expensive for what they are. However Breitling go the extra mile and make it worth it with really top notch material and workmanship. I will not say the absiolute best to be had, but it sure is up there.

Omega also make decent straps, that are priced somewhat more fairly at about 150USD for the calf.They also make the best rubber straps, my PO rubber strap feels buttery smooth and almost calf-like.

I am not a strict traditionalist myself, and do not mind going out and getting a Ted Su or an ABP strap. But i certinely don't mind paying a bit more for something as unique as Breitling's straps or Omega rubber, Panerai even make an amazing swivel design thing in brown calf that is very unique and really looking forward to getting one of those.

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Certified watch nut.