Noob question: Why are IWC straps reversed?

[GBeZeFromNAPeZe]

I searched for this. After browsing the picture threads I noticed this trend. Is this mainly an IWC thing? What's the history, tradition, benefits, etc? I may try it out on one of my watches, it seems like it will be awkward using a buckle, maybe easier using a deployant.

Somebody please school me. Thanks.

[heb]

Interesting question. Every watch I've ever purchased (included IWC watches) that came with a standard tang or deployant buckle was configured so that the "tail" end is on the outside of the wrist when fastened on the wrist--the exact opposite from that shown in your picture. I'm thinking the IWC Strap Installation Technician was drunk that day.

Predictably, to get those watches to fit on my wrist comfortably, I had to reverse the ends--like the one shown. Go figure.

I don't know why that is.

heb

[RickS72]

All new IWC watches leave the factory with the strap (either with tang buckle or deployant clasp) in the conventional position you're familiar with, i.e. the section with the holes fitted at 6 o'clock on the case. However, when someone wants to replace a tang buckle with a deployant clasp they sometimes find the deployant clasp does not sit centrally on the wrist and is therefore uncomfortable. This is usually the case with smaller than average wrists!

One solution to this is to reverse the two parts of the strap, as shown in your picture. This usually gives a better fit. The correct, and much more expensive answer, is to get an IWC strap which is specifically made for use with a deployant and is fitted to the watch in the conventional manner. IWC straps made for use with a deployant have different lengths to a standard strap, e.g. if the standard strap is 115mm x 75mm the equivalent deployant strap is 135mm x 55mm.

[slashd0t]

I believe this is a Big Pilot thing.. My Big Pilot strap is configured the exact same way as shown..

[GBeZeFromNAPeZe]

If you go on IWC's website, most every watch pictured is configured like this. Maybe it's not as unusual as I at first thought. I had just never noticed it before browsing IWCs. I setup my Stowa flieger like this and it seems like it may fit a little better.

[Watcheroo]

All IWC straps with deployants are configured as shown in the pic. Not sure why though.

[Vahalis]

All IWC straps with deployants are configured as shown in the pic. Not sure why though.

I find it easier to close the deployant this way. Btw deployants on bracelets are usually configured the same way, with the short end at 6.

[Ozy]

Interestingly, my Muhle Glashutte Antaria was configured this way too...I actually thought about reversing it. But the screw in bars and the lovely immaculate lugs ....and the leering watch guy at the store....I decided against it.

[RickS72]

I stand corrected. I've looked at the IWC website and several of the watches pictured have the strap "reversed", although as Watcheroo stated, it appears only to be the case where a deployant clasp is used. I think this is a relatively new move by IWC as I've never seen this on any IWC watch I've looked at in a showroom. Next time I'm in town I'll have to visit the IWC AD and find out what is going on.

[grteyes2]

never paid any attention to this but checked my 5001-07 and deployment strap configured the exact same as in your pic.