Vintage 1920's Women's Ribbon Watch Band - WTF? Need Help
I got granny's watch repaired and the dial and case really cleaned up well. Now there is the problem of getting it on a wrist.
It was found with this incomplete piece of ribbon remnant that appears to have been hand sewn around the fixed lugs. It seems to be 3/8" wide. The lugs are very shallow and I have extreme doubts about anything but another piece of flimsy ribbon fitting in them.
The only piece of existing hardware is shown, a single piece slider with two prongs on the back. I have no idea if this is missing another part(s) or not, but my best guess is as follows: Each end was sewn on in a closed loop, and this slider allowed loosening to fit over the hand. I suspect that the two prongs penetrated the fabric, thus the loose yarns that would allow this without damage.
Does this sound right or am I way off base? Regardless, how can I get this wearable, preferably with an authentic look? My Google-fu is exhausted and I am still not sure exactly what I am looking for, where to find it, or if this is even viable. Any info appreciated
Started as a quartzbro goofing on the mechanical snobs, wrote for thetruthaboutwatches.com, and lately started finding forgotten familial vintage watches in need of love.
You are looking for open ended straps for fixed lugs. They still sell them but they are a lot more expensive than normal straps. There are vintage bracelets that bend or hook over the fixed lug. This may be one of the few times that your local jeweler may be of assistance.
You are in a territory that very few have explored.
You are looking for open ended straps for fixed lugs. They still sell them but they are a lot more expensive than normal straps. There are vintage bracelets that bend or hook over the fixed lug. This may be one of the few times that your local jeweler may be of assistance.
You are in a territory that very few have explored.
I know that there are the "unfinished" leather bands where one must fasten the ends in place by closing with glue and/or stitching. Is that what you mean? I'm not sure if I'll find them at this width, and I'd prefer something as original in appearance as possible.
The other watch presumably of same original owner* has a bracelet like you mention, semi-permanently formed into place. I must note that it also has a marvelous little tool-free adjustable clasp that shames most modern luxury pieces.
[photo later... tech difficulties]
I was hoping I'd be able to get some craft store ribbon and make this work, but I get the feeling I was overly optimistic. And yes, women's vintage seems to be a virtual online no-man's land.
Uh oh, I now find this. https://www.etsy.com/listing/1231407339/art-deco-gold-filled-ribbon-ladies
It seems my second (unspoken) guess, that I have the male part of a snap contraption, was correct. So I have one piece of a four part hardware system.
For sale elsewhere, wrong tone
I'll keep my eyes peeled. If anyone has a set in yellow gold, let me know. I'm fine with hand sewing around the lugs.
* I again implore anyone with family pieces to document and inform all descendants of their provenance before gaps in the chain of custody appear and this knowledge becomes uncertain or altogether lost.
Sorry man that is way way too vintage deep for me wish I can help you there. I can't wait to see it all restored.
This link might help - I use this web site when I am looking for fixed lug strap options and have had very good experiences with them.
https://www.watch-band-center.com/watchstrap-h175-Open-End-Watch-Bands.html
I think you want something from the 10mm category as that is approximately 3/8ths of an inch, but they also have 9mm and 11mm options as well. Try sizing the lugs using mm instead of inches.
I think this Fluco strap would look pretty awesome and it's only 16 euros: