Homage Forum

Hi guys,

I have been making straps for my watches since a few years, started off with zero experience, watched youtube videos and practice practice ...
I've been using veg tan natural craft leather and then dye (airbrush or dauber) and roughening up to make them look vintage.
If I look at the more expensive straps for pams by Corrigia, Kostas, and other big names, I don't see how I can achieve that kind of quality..
What leather do they use? Do they dye it themselves?
This is something I'd really like to know.
Any help is appreciated.

Hi mate, WE usually use old magasine pouches from the 60's. Leather quality is very Nice, especially thé leather of the side of the pouch.
I also use any old leather i Can find with a nice patina

Here is an exemple of thé painted leather i'm talking about, thick Yep very supple

I know about the ammo pouches but they are going for a lot of money these days.
Out of one pouch you can't make a lot of straps.
Thing is I want to learn how to make really good straps that feel great on the wrist and look the part.
I've used belts, stretchy leather, craft leather, calfskin, but I just wonder what am I missing

you should have a look on the "pull up" (waxes) leathers, mainly cowhide. I also like to work with Barenia (Barenil) veal leather, it's a veg tan leather in various shades wich quickly darken and get patina (due to the natural tan)

With the waxed leather you can (have to) adjust the effect with stretching or decrease the wax amount with the clothe, like polishing. It's a kind of leather that you have to play with.

I have zero clue how to make a strap but recently got this vintage doctors bag which I hope to turn it into straps!

Only recycled leather, here from a belt

I have been thinking about giving straps a go...this thread might have just convinced me.

I reckon I have a few 50 year old belts in the back of my cupboard that no longer fit.