Category: Straps

Luxury watches with rubber straps have a relatively short history, dating back to the late 20th century. The use of rubber for watch straps was initially met with skepticism, as rubber was seen as a less sophisticated and less durable alternative to leather or metal.

However, this perception changed in the 1990s when several high-end watch brands began experimenting with rubber straps. These brands saw the potential of rubber as a versatile and lightweight material that could be molded into different shapes and colors and offered excellent resistance to water and wear.

They also recognized that rubber was ideal for sports and dive watches, as it was comfortable to wear and could withstand harsh conditions. Today, luxury watches with rubber straps are a common sight in the world of high-end horology.

Many brands offer a range of rubber strap options, from classic black to bright and bold colors and from solid rubber to perforated and textured rubber. Rubber straps are also often used in limited edition and special edition watches, where they provide a modern and distinctive look. 

Why Do So Many Luxury Watches Come With Rubber Straps?

First, rubber straps are extremely durable and resistant to wear and tear, making them perfect for sports watches. They are also waterproof, making them ideal for activities such as swimming and diving. Additionally, rubber straps are lightweight and flexible, providing a comfortable fit for the wearer.

Another reason why luxury watches with rubber straps are becoming popular is that they offer a more casual and sportier look compared to traditional metal bracelets or leather straps. This makes them perfect for those who want a watch that can transition easily from formal to casual occasions.

While rubber straps do have many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider. Some people may find rubber straps less comfortable than other materials, as they are less breathable than leather or metal. Additionally, rubber straps are not as dressy as other materials and may not be appropriate for formal occasions.

What to Look For in Watches With Rubber Straps

1. Watch Purpose: Consider the intended purpose of the watch. If it is going to be used for sports or outdoor activities, a rubber strap is a great choice as it is durable, water-resistant, and flexible.
2. Quality of the Rubber Strap: Make sure to choose a rubber strap made of high-quality materials. Look for straps that are made of premium rubber, such as natural rubber, and have a high level of durability and resistance to wear and tear.
3. Comfort: Rubber straps are generally lightweight and flexible, which makes them comfortable to wear. However, it’s important to choose a rubber strap that is comfortable for you and fits well on your wrist.
4. Brand Reputation: You should consider the reputation of the brand and the quality of its products before making a purchase.
5. Availability of Replacement: It’s a good idea to check if replacement straps are readily available in case you need to replace the strap in the future.

By considering these factors, you can be confident that you are making an informed decision when buying a luxury rubber watch strap. Remember to take your time and do your research, and you will be sure to find the perfect rubber strap for your watch.

The Best Watches With a Rubber Strap

1. THE PATEK PHILIPPE AQUANAUT (ref. 5167A-001)

This iteration of the Aquanaut continues with the polygon shape, with an etched globe pattern on the matte black dial. On the back, you’ll find an open case displaying a truly beautiful movement. Upon examination, the watch display is unique and unmistakable for an Aquanaut. 

The case is thin and easy wearing. It’s not chunky like other sports watches, and the excellent black rubber strap makes it wear light and comfortable on the wrist. It’s flat, flush, and will slip under a dress shirt. In fact, you might forget you’re wearing this watch. The “tropical composite” rubber strap includes twin fold-over clasps with the etched cross symbol, visible when closed.

Specs & Features:

• Case size: 40.8mm
• Case material: Stainless steel
• Dial color: Black
• Movement: Automatic (Caliber 26‑330 S C)
• Power reserve: 45 hours
• Water resistance: 120 meters
• Bracelet/strap: Black rubber strap
• Features: Date display and luminescent markers 

Price: $23,070

2. OMEGA SEAMASTER DIVER 300M CO-AXIAL 42MM (ref. 210.32.42.20.01.001)

The Omega Seamaster, also known as “The Bond Watch,” as it was worn by James Bond actor Pierce Brosnan in the 90s, was originally made in 1948 and modeled after the watches Omega designed for the Royal Air Force during World War II. 

The Seamaster 300M comes in a 42mm stainless steel case with a stunning deep black dial. The dial features the watch’s distinct wave pattern, setting it apart from most contemporary dive watches. You’ll also find a color-matched date window at 6 o’clock.

The watch comes with a beautiful skeletonized handset, a ceramic black bezel, and Omega’s helium escape valve at the standard 10 o’clock position. The Seamaster is powered by Omega’s Caliber 8800 with Master Chronometer certification. This version comes on a high-quality black rubber strap that matches the overall sporty aesthetic of the watch.

Specs & Features:

• Case size: 42mm
• Case material: Stainless steel
• Dial colors: Black, gray, green, blue & various special additions 
• Movement: Automatic (Caliber 8800)
• Power reserve: 55 hours
• Water resistance: 300 meters
• Bracelet/strap: Black rubber strap
• Features: Date display, anti-magnetic, chronometer, unidirectional rotating bezel

Price: $5,100 (Source: www.omegawatches.com)

3. SEIKO PROSPEX LX (ref. SNR043J1)

This watch was designed by Ken Okuyama, a celebrated automobile designer known for his work with Ferrari. The design is powerful yet sleek, with a case size of 45mm. However, this watch doesn’t wear as large on the wrist as the dimensions suggest, given its slimming all-black design.

Plus, the comfortable silicone strap helps to keep the weight down. The platinum Cermet bezel is Seiko’s unique blend of titanium and ceramic. It’s powered by Seiko’s in-house 5R6R Spring Drive (Seiko’s hybrid quartz and mechanical movement).

The accuracy of the movement is rated at 1 sec +/- per day. The timepiece boasts a unidirectional bezel. While the price might seem steep for a Seiko, it should be noted that there were only 200 pieces made for this special edition version, and combined with the unique racing design, this is a true collector’s item.

Specs & Features:

• Case size: 44.8mm
• Case material: Titanium 
• Dial colors: Black
• Movement: Hybrid (Spring Drive 5R6R)
• Power reserve: 72 hours
• Water resistance: 300 meters
• Bracelet/strap: Black rubber strap
• Features: Date display at 3 o’clock, LumiBrite hands, and markers.

Price: $6,500 (Source: www.seikowatches.com)

4. GLASHÜTTE ORIGINAL SENATOR CHRONO PANO DATE (ref. 1 1-37-01-03-02-33)

Glashütte Original is a German luxury watch brand founded in 1845 in the town of Glashütte, Germany. The company began as a small workshop producing pocket watches but quickly grew in popularity and reputation for its high-quality craftsmanship and precision. 

The Senator Chronograph Panorama Date straddles the line between sports and dress watches. The details printed in white stand out clearly and sharply against the matte black dial. The contrast Is strengthened by the luminous blue Super-LumiNova highlighting.  

One can configure this watch with a black or white face and either with numbers at the 3,6, and 9 o’clock positions or with markers only. The transparent case on the back offers a closer look at the movement with polished steel parts, blue screws, and a skeletonized 21ct gold double G logo. The watch comes in a few strap options, including a very comfortable rubber strap.

Specs & Features:

• Case size: 42mm
• Case material: Stainless steel
• Dial colors: Black or white
• Movement: Automatic (Caliber 3701)
• Power reserve: Approximately 70 hours
• Water resistance: 100 meters
• Bracelet/strap: Black rubber strap
• Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, chronograph 

Price: $13,700 (Source: www.glashuette-original.com).

5. HUBLOT CLASSIC FUSION AUTO TITANIUM 45MM (ref. 511.NX.1171.RX)

Hublot is a luxury Swiss watch brand founded in 1980 by Carlo Crocco. The brand’s name is derived from the French word “hublot,” which means “porthole.” This name was chosen to reflect the design of the brand’s first watch, the Hublot, which featured a unique porthole-shaped bezel.

The timepiece was a bold departure from traditional watch design and featured a unique combination of materials, including gold, steel, and rubber. In 1984, Hublot introduced the world’s first natural rubber strap for a watch, a revolutionary development in the industry. 

The Hublot Classic Fusion is a stylish and luxurious watch that is both durable and high performing. The combination of its ceramic and titanium case and the sophisticated chronograph movement makes this watch a reliable timekeeper that can withstand daily wear and tear. 

The watch’s bold design is eye-catching. The rubber strap is comfortable to wear and provides a secure fit, making it ideal for both casual and formal wear. Overall, the Classic Fusion is an excellent investment for anyone looking for a high-end watch that combines style and functionality.

Specs & Features:

• Case size: 45mm
• Case material: Titanium
• Dial colors: Matte black
• Movement: Automatic (Caliber 1112)
• Power reserve: 42 hours
• Water resistance: 50 meters
• Bracelet/strap: Lined black rubber strap
• Features: Hours, minutes, seconds, date

Price: $7,600 (Source: hublot.com)

6. BREGUET MARINE 40.5MM AUTOMATIC (ref. 5517TI/Y1/5ZU)

Breguet is a luxury watch company founded by Abraham-Louis Breguet in 1775 in Paris, France. Breguet is one of the most renowned and respected watchmakers in history, and his watches are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Today, Breguet is known for its luxury watches that are highly prized for their craftsmanship, precision, and elegance. 

The Breguet Marine 40mm Automatic is a stunning timepiece that showcases the brand’s commitment to precision and elegance. The 40.5mm titanium case is lightweight and provides a modern, sporty look. The power reserve indicator adds a useful and functional touch.

The blue dial with roman numerals is both classy and visually arresting, and the applied hour markers and hands are easily legible. The watch comes in a beautiful blue rubber strap that’s comfortable to wear and adds a sportier aesthetic to a beautiful dress watch. Overall, the Breguet Marine 40mm Automatic ref. is a top-notch watch that is perfect for those who appreciate timeless design and attention to detail

Specs & Features:

• Case size: 40.5mm
• Case material: Titanium
• Dial colors: Sunburst blue or gray
• Movement: Automatic (Caliber 777A)
• Power reserve: Approximately 55 hours
• Water resistance: 100 meters 
• Bracelet/strap: Blue rubber strap 
• Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date

Price: $17,300

7. BLANCPAIN FIFTY FATHOMS X FATHOMS 55.6MM (ref. 5018 1230 64A)

Blancpain is a luxury watch company that was founded in 1735 by Jehan-Jacques Blancpain in Villeret, Switzerland. Blancpain is one of the oldest watch companies in the world and is known for its high-quality, traditional watches. 

In the early years, Blancpain focused on producing high-quality pocket watches, which were highly prized for their precision and craftsmanship. In 1926, Blancpain introduced its first wristwatch, the “Roue Carrée,” which featured a square movement and was highly innovative for its time. 

During World War II, Blancpain stopped producing watches to focus on making parts for the war effort. The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms X Fathoms 55mm 5018 1230 64A is a bold and innovative dive watch that seamlessly blends form and function.

The 55mm case size is large and makes a statement on the wrist. The black dial and simple white numbers are accompanied by a colorful array of dive functions indicators and a 24-hour hand. The titanium case keeps the watch light.

The rubber strap is comfortable and secure, providing a comfortable fit even during extended wear. Overall, the Fifty Fathoms 55mm is a standout dive watch that offers both style and practicality for the serious diver.

Specs & Features:

• Case size: 55.6mm
• Case material: Titanium 
• Dial colors: Black  
• Movement: Automatic (caliber 9918B)
• Power reserve: 120 hours
• Water resistance: 300 meters
• Bracelet/strap: Black rubber strap
• Features: Decompression value, depth indication, unidirectional bezel, 24 hr.

Price: $40,700 (https://www.blancpain.com).

8.  LONGINES HYDROCONQUEST AUTOMATIC 43MM (ref. L3.782.4.56.9)

Longines is a Swiss luxury watch company that was founded in 1832 by Auguste Agassiz in the small town of Saint-Imier in the Jura Mountains. Agassiz started the company with the goal of producing high-quality watches that were both accurate and affordable. 

To accomplish this goal, he set up a workshop equipped with the latest watchmaking technology and staffed with skilled watchmakers. In the decades that followed, Longines continued to produce watches known for their quality, accuracy, and style. 

The Longines HydroConquest Automatic 43mm is a well-designed and functional timepiece that comes in 7 different variations. This one features a 43mm diameter case made of stainless steel, with a black sunray dial, luminous white and silver lined hands and markers, and a black rubber strap. The watch has a professional and durable appearance. 

Specs & Features: 

• Case size: 43mm diameter
• Case material: Stainless steel
• Dial colors: Black sunray
• Movement: Automatic caliber L888
• Power reserve: 72 hours
• Water resistance: 300 meters 
• Bracelet/strap: Black rubber strap
• Hours, minutes, seconds, date

Price: $1,700 (Source: www.longines.com)

9. ORIS AQUIS RELIEF RED STRAP (ref. 01 733 7730 4153-07 4 24 66EB)

This is a well-designed diver, by Oris. The face is simple and effortlessly readable. A gray dial is contrasted with a bright red rubber strap. Every detail has been carefully thought through on this watch. The rubber strap has an almost silicone feel and is accompanied by a twin-trigger actuated deploying clasp, keeping this watch in place, even under the most active conditions.

There’s also a glide adjustment system to easily size the timepiece to the perfect fit or even extend it over a wetsuit. This Aquis is dedicated to swimmer Ernst Bromeis and the gray dial apparently represents the cold waters of Lake Baikal, which he swam in preparation for completing “The Blue Miracle,” a series of challenging cold water lake swims.

The watch is sizable, but the way it’s shaped, it doesn’t sit too large on the wrist. With 300 meters of water resistance, this meets the requirements of a professional dive watch.

Specs & Features: 

• Case size: 43.5mm diameter
• Case material: Stainless steel
• Dial colors: Gray
• Movement: Automatic caliber Oris 733
• Power reserve: 72 hours
• Water resistance: 300 meters 
• Bracelet/strap: Red rubber strap
• Hours, minutes, seconds, date, rotating bezel 

Price: $1,900 (Source: https://www.exquisitetimepieces.com)

10. ROLEX COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA 40MM (ref. 116519LN)

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is a luxury chronograph watch that was first introduced by Rolex in 1963. The watch was designed for race car drivers and enthusiasts, and it featured a tachymeter scale on the bezel, which allows for the measurement of speed based on time traveled. 

The first Cosmograph Daytona watches were powered by manual-wind mechanical movements and featured stainless steel cases. However, in 1988, Rolex introduced a new version of the watch with an automatic movement and the option for a gold case. 

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is a highly sought-after timepiece with a rich heritage. This iteration is encased in white gold and features an extraordinary meteorite and black dial. The tachymetric scale can measure speeds up to 400 MPH. The watch comes with a signature Rolex Oysterflex rubber strap, one of the highest-quality silicon straps on the market.

Specs & Features: 

• Case size: 40mm
• Case material: White gold
• Dial color: Meteorite and black 
• Movement: Rolex Caliber 4130
• Power reserve: 72 hours
• Water resistance: 100 meters
• Bracelet/strap: Oysterflex black rubber strap 
• Features: Hour, minute, and seconds hands, chronograph, tachymetric scale

Price: $35,900 (Source: Rolex.com).

11. BREITLING SUPEROCEAN AUTO 42MM (ref. 42 A17375E71C1S1)

The Breitling Superocean watch collection has been a popular choice among professional divers and water enthusiasts for over 60 years. Its durability, functionality, and accuracy make it a reliable timepiece for underwater adventures. The Superocean comes in different color combinations.

The one selected here is a handsome, functional dive watch with a sunburst blue dial and bezel that appear multi-shaded, depending on the light. The chunky white markers, set against the dark backdrop, make it sharp and legible and any depth. The dark blue rubber strap is adjustable up to 15mm to fit over a wetsuit or rash guard.

This is simply a cool-looking watch, and in a 42mm, it’s versatile as a dive tool watch, and luxury sports watch.

Specs & Features: 

• Case size: 42mm
• Case material: White gold
• Dial color: Blue 
• Movement: Breitling Caliber 17
• Power reserve: 38 hours
• Water resistance: 300 meters
• Bracelet/strap: Blue rubber strap 
• Features: Hour, minute, and seconds hands, bi-directional bezel

Price: $4,650 (Source: www.breitling.com)

12. TUDOR PELAGOS 39MM (ref. M25407N-0001)

Tudor Pelagos watches are a line of dive watches produced by Tudor, a Swiss luxury watch company founded in 1926. The Pelagos line was introduced in 2012 and is named after the Greek word for “open sea.” It is designed to be a professional-grade dive watch focusing on functionality, durability, and legibility.

The latest iteration features a classic black sunray satin finish dial, with white markers and a titanium case. This is a smaller case and slimmer profile than previous Pelagos versions, making it a more well-rounded watch. It also comes with a titanium band, with Tudor’s version of Rolex’s Glide-Lock called T-Lock, and a rubber strap with a tang buckle. 

Specs & Features: 

• Case size: 39mm
• Case material: Titanium
• Dial color: Black sunray 
• Movement: Tudor Caliber MT5400
• Power reserve: 70 hours
• Water resistance: 200 meters
• Bracelet/strap: Black rubber strap and titanium bracelet 
• Features: Hour, minute, and seconds hands, bi-directional bezel

Price: $4,600 (Source: www.tudorwatch.com)

Closing Thoughts

Luxury watches with rubber straps may be the black sheep of the high-end horology world, but they’re also the life of the wrist party. They’re not afraid to get down and dirty, whether it’s in the depths of the ocean or on a mud-filled obstacle course.

For expert guidance in purchasing your next luxury rubber strap timepiece, contact your friends at Exquisite Timepieces.

POV: The hotter months have arrived, and brought with them the humidity which,  upon coming across this article, may have you contemplating a wardrobe change  directed at your wrist; a vibrant, sportier swap of bracelet for the summer-ready rubber strap.

While looks are most apparent in the decision-making process, there  are few choices that match a fine façade with build-quality and personal  compatibility, for which the internet (majority of whom represent Rolex here, as such  the central figure in this debate) has nominated two main contenders: Rubber B and  Everest. As one is much like the other, we must closely examine both to uncover  which is truly fit for the crown, or ‘coronet’, as well as its contemporaries. 

Rubber B Background

Hailing from Switzerland, Rubber B first opened its doors in 2010, claiming to be the  first of its kind to cater to the Rolex market, per the description from their website. 

Inherently, one could argue that they carried the torch first lit by Rolex with the 60’s era ‘Tropic’ rubber strap, adorned by the early Submariner, by advancing the  concept decades later before the watch manufacturer could circle back with their own, yet restrictive Oysterflex strap in 2015.

Unlike said elastometer bracelet,  Rubber B satisfies far more than two-mere models, instead covering the entire Rolex fleet known today, and since enhancing its mechanisms affixed to the ‘vulcanized’  rubber strap, while expanding their portfolio to eventually suit Audemars Piguet,  Breitling, IWC, Omega, Panerai, Patek Philippe, Tudor alongside their universal  strap series’.

Everest Background

The younger of the two, the ever-zealous Everest Horology first gained its footing on  Kickstarter, where it was brought to life in 2012 by devoted backers responding to  Michael DiMartini, whose desire it was to craft the ultimate replacement strap for his  Rolex.

While they are not headquartered in Switzerland, they source the same type  of ‘Swiss-Made’ polymer rubber under the same processes (note: it has not been  certified by a governing body as a result, unlike its corrival, hence ineligible for the official stamp; yet the origin of their sourcing alone marks its approval). 

Nevertheless, their sleeve contains a fair few tricks of its own in terms of  practicalities, which we will dissect further below.

Though it has less range than  Rubber B across watch brands, catering to a select-fewer in Rolex, Tudor, Panerai  as well as its own selection of universal straps, fear not – as those who own one  swear by them, in no way facilitating this dead-heated comparison. Time now to see  what each is made of.

As mentioned, both adhere to the usage of vulcanized rubber, which is the result of  combining and heating rubber & Sulphur, thus increasing durability and bypassing  reliability issues encountered in regular old rubber, such as cracking or UV  tarnishing, in the face of tougher exposure.

Rubber B, who now have a host of  bracelet styles and technologies, most notably their self-coined ‘Blocked Integration’  or seamless strap-to-lug fit, come today in various looks and materials. Their flagship  rubber strap is directly set apart from alternative brands, in that it grants a smooth  feel that does not stick, offering a discreet fit and is also impervious to scratches.  

The same can be said for Everest, which also has a neutral feel yet is seemingly less  matte in tonal shade, instead a tad glossier, while also slightly nimbler overall – alluding to its deeper carved out channel, mostly allowing for better air flow and  preventing moisture from settling (not to say the former has issues in this area).

As  far as securing the strap, both come in a tang buckle version in addition to an  alternative, wherein Rolex clasps in particular can be mounted, while Rubber B also  offer a torsion-tested Velcro closure. The interchangeable verdict, is that each are  durable and built to last, with looks that do not fade. At least not for a very, very long  time. 

Fitment

The separating factor calls into question the wrist itself, as each strap features a  different fit, in turn likely separating each reader to their appropriate choice. This is  most critical, as investing in a strap should not only meet expectations in quality, but must feel secure and comfortable to naturally compliment the timepiece, least of all distract from it.

To clarify, Rubber B, on all accounts, is more suitable for a smaller  wrist circumference. In part thanks to its sharp profile and shorter end from six  o’clock, meaning it does not feel bulky or weighted, but also because it points  downwards from the lugs, wrapping firmly right around and creating a snug fit. 

As for Everest, which is broader yet less rigid, it comes greater in length yet is also  more curved, corresponding closer to the angle of the wrist, especially one that is  broader. Due to its flexibility, it is also said to fit nicely directly out of the packaging, while Rubber B requires some time to be worn in.

As a rule, those with a wrist size  closer to 6 inches will typically feel at home with Rubber B, while others nearing 8  inches in wrist circumference may be more inclined to opt for Everest. 

Scope of Design

Owing to its ever-so-slimmer profile, the Rubber B strap appears partially narrower in  comparison to Everest, in particular where it is raised in the middle, as Everest  features both a uniform and wider beveling from top to bottom, and overall larger  presence.

Both see the rubber extruding beside the lugs, though this does not  obstruct its position atop the wrist, meanwhile Everest’s securing pins are not  embedded as tightly as with Rubber B, giving it more freedom and partial looseness,  thereby less constricted and more forgiving on larger wrists. Rubber B stands out on  paper boasting ‘Strength Infusion Technology’, in which it fuses carbon fiber  molecules during the molding process to retain its shape and resistance to friction.  

This, on the part of Everest, gives an impression of less rigidity owing to the subtleties in manufacturing, though this works in its favor as sequentially, it feels  more flexible. In spite of this, it is noticeably more vigorous between the two, alluding  to a presence that edges in achieving a masculine look.

Mounting the strap to the  case is no fret, however, it may bring on a challenge for first-timers, as confessed by  Rubber B themselves.

The tang buckle option cuts the process in half, though mounting the buckle requires nothing more than the normal screws of the Glidelock  link or clasp, and is guaranteed not to harm the watch. Finally, neither are  constructed by coating blends or bonding, while both solid straps come in a handful  of primary colors, each curated to best compliment every individual model.

Pricing

Another decisive point to consider, is of course their price. Although Rubber B is on  par with Everest when quality is concerned, and vice versa, one comes in a grade  steeper resulting from its technical investments; Rubber B is the more expensive  between the two.

The Glidelock format from them will cost $250, and $220 for the  same over at Everest, while the tang buckle is $240 at both respectively. There is  something to be said about arriving first, not only that but Rubber B appear more  established as well as their aptitude for technical development.

They also bear the  certified credentials to support that fact, though for many Everest will bestow more  value, because their presence is equally well known with the same renown Swiss  quality, for a fraction of the price.

Conclusion

The final consensus: it ultimately depends on your build, as well as your preference.  Make no mistake, both accomplish what they set out to achieve, and you are in good  hands at whichever camp you choose.

While they resemble each other on the  surface, they differ slightly upon closer inspection, and are certainly composed of  different qualities from a tangible aspect. Rubber B is not as bulky and can be  distinguished by its snug fit and lower profile. Though not by much, as Everest gives  off an only slightly larger appearance, compensated in part due to a commonly larger  wrist. 

With that said, it is advised that one focus mainly on the fit of the strap against wrist  dimensions, as that will be key in achieving harmony in proportion to the wearer and  the watch itself. For those favoring the tang buckle, one final point to note is that the  

holes are positioned farther apart on Rubber B straps, compared with that from  Everest. Though given that rubber is more robust, this is quite commonplace  resulting from a larger surface area. This should not dissuade those with small wrist  sizes, as each hole is positioned to suit most wearer’s proportions. If that does not  concern you, and for added flexibility, Everest will likely better serve you.