Conditioning leather straps?
Does anyone here condition their more expensive leather straps for longevity/water resistance, as one might for a pair of boots?
I've never done it but wondered if anyone thinks there is merit to it as straps age. I know they don't undergo the same kind of stress as footwear, but still interesting to think about.
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Robert
I'm a simple man. I like pretty, well-made watches and breakfast food.
Indiana
Member since
Last active: 1 week ago
I’ve never done it, but sounds like a good idea.
Be carefull what you put in contact with your skin as it can absorb in easily. Straps are consumable so let them wear or condition the outside only
Be carefull what you put in contact with your skin as it can absorb in easily. Straps are consumable so let them wear or condition the outside only
True I didn't think about that.
I take some leather lotion every once in a while. It does make it pop
Condition it…with sweat
Generally not recommended to add conditioners to watch straps. Even “natural” conditioners like Obenauf will transfer to your skin and cause irritation.
The oils of your skin will be enough if you wear it regularly. A gentle cleaning twice a year isn’t a bad idea, just don’t use saddle soap.
Saddle Soap
@ChippewaCraig
@SurferJohn
Lol, you two need to talk it out here.
I’ve always wondered about this, and whether it would be worth it to use my shoe wax as a water repellent on my straps, but from the sounds of prior comments, one wants to be cautious when putting that stuff up against your skin.
I just got a strap from Vario for my G-Shock, it’s a leather strap but treated with a 3M water repellent, so I wonder how that works, skin irritation-wise?
@ChippewaCraig
@SurferJohn
Lol, you two need to talk it out here.
😆
Saddle Soap has a ph of at least 10. It will harden, darken, and weaken leather with continued use. If you have ever had cowboy or work boots that you cleaned with saddle soap a few times you know what I mean.
@ChippewaCraig
@SurferJohn
Lol, you two need to talk it out here.
I only use saddle soap on my watch straps and other leather goods. I use three soft cloths, one moistened with a small amount of saddle soap applied. A second moistened cloth for rinsing, and a third for drying, buffing.
I've tried other things and experimentation which lead to nothing good.