Custom straps for Mark XVI?

[p_mcgee]

After going back and forth on whether to sell my Mark XVI, I decided my main problem with it is that I don't really love it on the black OEM strap. Seems kinda boring compared to my other "big" watches, so it mostly sits in the safe. However, with summer on the way I think it would be nice to wear more frequently.

I picked up a couple inexpensive waterproof straps (Maratec Elite & Watch Boys rubber) for hot days to try to get the kevlar "top gun" look, but now I'm thinking of going a different direction and sourcing a custom made strap. I've looked into Toshi, Micah, Europelli & a few others that make 20mm straps. Now I'm thinking of pulling the trigger on a Greg Stevens strap, just can't figure out which to get.

His gallery is here:
Mega Gallery - GREG .STEVENS .DESIGN -- leather goods, watch accessories

Which would you pick?

Has anybody had luck with a Mark XVI on a non-black strap? What thickness should I request (thinking maybe 3mm)? Any wrist shots out there? Anybody have comments on Greg Stevens or any other custom strap makers?

Thanks for any feedback!

[skifefa]

maybe check these guys out, they're real nice folks. all handmade straps. i'm going to order one from them soon.
Handmade Leather Watch Straps | Handmade Leather Wallets | Handmade Carry Goods | Custom Watch Straps | Handmade Leather Bags, Accessories - Bas and Lokes

[SCD]

I've settled on the Hadley Roma 891. The texture of the leather and the white stitching perfectly match the dial. Simple...sporty...nicely made...nice price too. I don't care for the stock strap...too dressy for this watch.

[timefleas]

Of the OP's choices, I would go with the Marrone Antico.

However, I have owned several Marks,and really feel it needs a matte black or dark gray with contrasting white or linen stitching myself--any maker, though, can get you something good in the size (relatively narrow lug width) required for the Mark--I would even look at something like Bob straps, a truly great strap for the price. I think the strap width for the Mark XVI (20mm, and 19mm for the earlier Marks, I believe) is too narrow to waste too much money on a custom made job, despite the mega bucks they charge for an OEM version.

[p_mcgee]

Thanks for the advice. I settled on the dark green, similar to the black/gray suggestion above, but with black stitch. Also thinking about getting a less expensive tan strap with white stitching, just to try it out. Now that I have the strap bug I sense a new strap will be in the works or my panerai as well.