IWC gator strap wear and tear

[MotoDC]

As in love with my 3714 as I am, I am shocked by how little time the brown alligator strap lasted. I've owned the watch for 14 months and already both loops (for lack of better word) have fallen off and the band is completely discolored. I know straps are not good for hot weather, and I expected some discoloration...but for both loops to fall off, rendering the strap almost unwearable...well that shocked me. Especially considering the ask price on an IWC band.

Do you folks literally not wear your straps in the summer? Have you similar experiences with IWC straps or any gator straps for that matter?

...Well I tried to upload a couple pics but I must be doing something wrong. Both attempts failed.

[JP Chestnut]

I view straps as disposable, and spend the least amount possible on them (while getting adequate quality). I've found watchboys to offer a good quality/price ratio.

[Jaqesq]

As in love with my 3714 as I am, I am shocked by how little time the brown alligator strap lasted. I've owned the watch for 14 months and already both loops (for lack of better word) have fallen off and the band is completely discolored. I know straps are not good for hot weather, and I expected some discoloration...but for both loops to fall off, rendering the strap almost unwearable...well that shocked me. Especially considering the ask price on an IWC band.

Do you folks literally not wear your straps in the summer? Have you similar experiences with IWC straps or any gator straps for that matter?

...Well I tried to upload a couple pics but I must be doing something wrong. Both attempts failed.

Had a similar problem with a black gator strap on an IWC. It took more than five years though, but the loops were the first to go (can't wear it without the loops). Then again, the watch probably only got 10-15% wrist time over the course of that period. I do find myself gravitating towards watches with bracelets or rubber during hotter and more humid days.

[SCD]

Spending a lot of money on straps never made sense to me. They're just not durable goods. Hirsch straps are pretty darn nice.

[p_mcgee]

I've got my Mark XVI on a Hirsch pure rubber strap for the summer. Looks great & you can just wash it down.

[xinxin]

I always use something else other than the one that came with the watch. Thats why i had to buy them spring bar tools. :)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[slashd0t]

When I had a XVI I found it best on a nato for summer.. That watch was seriously built for a nato band IMO :D