If you ever grow weary of a particular watch in your collection or find yourself not wearing it often enough, I highly recommend changing the strap. This simple modification can rejuvenate the timepiece, giving it a fresh and sometimes even entirely new appearance.
Avel and Men offers a selection of intriguing canvas and leather straps designed to achieve this transformation. But do they live up to expectations? Let’s explore and find out.
Designs
A distinctive feature of many of their watch straps is the small sewn French flag on the right side, near the watch, where it turns towards you. This subtle detail is perhaps intended to be discreet, a personal touch for the wearer rather than a statement for others.
I find this addition quite appealing, as it lends the strap a unique “French flair” and makes it stand out in an understated way.
Canvas Strap
The canvas strap collection features both classic and vibrant options. Some straps stand out for their bicolor or complex textured designs, while others are simple, available in a single color with or without matching stitching.
One standout for me was the Port Louis Yellow strap. Its striking hue reminded me of the iconic Breitling Yellow and would be a perfect match for my early 2000s Breitling Headwind.
Leather Strap
The leather strap collection offers a more classic and subdued palette, though it remains diverse. Among these, the bright yellow strap stands out as the most vibrant. You’ll find traditional cognac and dark leather options, along with red burgundy versions. Some of these feature a small French flag, adding a subtle touch of flair, while others omit this detail for a more formal appearance.
Quality
Overall the quality of these straps are great!
The canvas straps are well made, with good upholstering near the watch that thins out, tight stitching and good quick-release spring bars.
The buckle here is quite generic, but does the job just fine.
The strap I tested can be found here.
The leather strap I tested was good as well, but with the sides laminated and not folded over. I found it to be a bit too thick for my very thin Elka watch, but great for other more bulky watches.
The buckle used here is quite generic, but works just fine.
The strap I tested can be found here.
On the wrist (and watches)
