Watch Straps and Clasps – Complete Overview

This page provides a comprehensive and technically correct overview of watch strap types, bracelets, materials, and clasp systems used in modern and traditional watchmaking.

Watch Strap and Bracelet Types

Category	English Term	Description
Leather	Leather strap	Classic watch strap made from natural leather, suitable for dress and casual watches.
Leather	Padded leather strap	Leather strap with internal padding for increased comfort and visual presence.
Leather	Shell cordovan leather strap	Premium leather strap made from horsehide, known for durability and smooth surface.
Leather	Bund style leather strap	Leather strap with an additional leather pad underneath the watch case.
Textile	Textile strap	Lightweight and durable strap made from woven textile materials.
Textile	NATO strap (double-pass)	One-piece strap that passes underneath the watch case with an additional securing layer.
Textile	Single-pass NATO strap	One-piece strap passing underneath the case without an additional securing layer.
Textile	Royal Air Force style strap	Single-pass military strap with snap fasteners instead of metal keepers.
Textile	Two-piece pass-through textile strap	Two-piece strap attached directly to the lugs with no material running underneath the case.
Textile	Perlon strap	Braided synthetic strap allowing micro-adjustment through the weave.
Textile	Canvas strap	Heavy-duty textile strap with a rugged, military-inspired appearance.
Rubber	Rubber strap	Water-resistant strap suitable for sports and diving watches.
Rubber	Fluoroelastomer rubber strap (FKM)	High-quality rubber strap with excellent resistance to heat, chemicals, and aging.
Rubber	Silicone strap	Soft and flexible strap commonly used for sports watches.
Metal	Metal bracelet	Bracelet made from metal links, commonly stainless steel or titanium.
Metal	Milanese mesh bracelet	Fine metal mesh bracelet offering flexibility and a vintage-inspired appearance.
Metal	Oyster style bracelet	Three-link metal bracelet known for strength and simplicity.
Metal	Jubilee style bracelet	Five-link bracelet offering increased flexibility and comfort.
Metal	Beads of rice bracelet	Multi-link bracelet with small rounded links, often used in vintage designs.
Metal	Expansion bracelet	Stretchable bracelet that does not require a clasp.

Clasp and Buckle Types

English Term	Description	Typical Usage
Pin buckle	Traditional buckle with a pin passing through holes in the strap.	Leather straps, textile straps
Deployant clasp	Folding clasp that opens to allow the strap to unfold.	Leather straps, metal bracelets
Butterfly clasp	Double folding clasp with symmetrical opening.	Metal bracelets
Folding clasp with safety lock	Folding clasp with additional safety mechanism.	Diving watches
Push-button deployant clasp	Deployant clasp released by push buttons.	Metal bracelets, premium straps
Sliding clasp	Adjustable clasp sliding along the bracelet.	Milanese mesh bracelets
Snap fastener closure	Closure using metal snap fasteners for length adjustment.	Military textile straps
Diver extension clasp	Clasp with extension mechanism to fit over a diving suit.	Diving watches
Magnetic clasp	Clasp using magnetic force for closure.	Modern mesh bracelets

Common Materials

Material	Description
Stainless steel	Corrosion-resistant steel commonly used in bracelets and clasps.
Titanium	Lightweight metal with high strength and corrosion resistance.
Bronze	Copper-based alloy that develops a natural patina over time.
Leather	Natural material derived from animal hides.
Nylon	Synthetic textile material with high durability.
Fluoroelastomer rubber (FKM)	Advanced synthetic rubber with superior resistance properties.
Canvas	Heavy woven textile often used for military-style straps.