Watch 101 - Watch Straps, FKM Rubber, Leather Bands & Bergeon Tools Explained

We’re back with another Watch 101—this time breaking down watch straps, bands and essential tools.From silicone and FKM rubber to sailcloth and leather, we discuss how the right strap can completely transform a watch’s look, comfort and versatility. We discuss strap sizing, fit, colour choices, taper, aftermarket options vs OEM replacements, leather and the varying qualities. We also touch on quick-release spring bars and why investing in quality tools can prevent scratches and damage.WristchecksJames: Hamilton Jazzmaster Traveller 2 GMT & Vario GMT Blue (double wristing).Praka: Seiko Turtle on the original rubber strap.Links DiscussedAffordable strap options:Samco Silicone StrapCTS FKM Sailcloth StrapOEM replacements:Hamilton straps via Masters In TimeSeiko Prospex rubber strapStrap makers mentioned:Vario Vintage Italian LeatherArtisan StrapsAtelier KaiThe Sydney Strap Co.HanddnTun’s StoreTools discussed:Delugs Bracelet Removal ToolBergeon Spring Bar Tweezer ToolBergeon 6767-F Spring Bar ToolJaycar Watch Repair KitSomething InterestingJames upgrades from a 15-year-old 65” LCD to a 77” Samsung OLED—finally entering 2026.Praka shares his thoughts on finishing Stranger Things and how the finale compares to the ending of Game of Thrones.Contact UsThanks for tuning in! If you have any feedback or just want to chat, you can find us here:Praka: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@kinda.average.watches⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OverTime Broadcast Channel (Instagram): ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/channel/AbYuJN0yPDu4UXZk/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OverTime The Podcast: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linktree – OverTime The Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WatchingJames (Youtube): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@WATCHingJames⁠⁠⁠WatchingJames (Instagram): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/watching_james/?hl=en ⁠⁠⁠Support UsIf you’d like to support the show, you can buy us a coffee here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com/overtimethepodcast⁠⁠⁠Tags: watch podcast, horology podcast, watch collecting podcast, watch enthusiast podcast, microbrand watches, independent watch brands, watch collecting, horology, watch enthusiasts, OverTime podcast, watch straps, watch bands, watch strap replacement, watch strap guide, spring bar tool, watch tools, Bergeon tools, Seiko Turtle, Hamilton Jazzmaster, Atelier Kai, Vario watches, watch enthusiast, mechanical watches, affordable watches, watch collecting tips