Feeling like a new watch- Tempo Mat Blue Epson Leather Strap

We are always chasing the hype. No matter how we frame it, we watch lovers tend to always seek for something new; a dial colour, a case shape, it all comes down on having that feeling. It is a bit pointless as the amount of watches out there is not only vast, but it also comes with several variations that is impossible to amass.

So, if having all watches feels like a unicorn quest, what could be the next best thing? Well changing the looks of it of course. I am not a fan of modifying watches, not only feels arrogant on my side by thinking that I know better than well established design departments, but we can all agree that straps are the weakest part of a watch manufacturer.

If we think about it, even the most iconic watches such as the Omega Speedmaster or Patek Phillipe Calatrava both come with some of dullest straps (great quality) ever supplied but because of the dial configuration, the options are limitless. That said there are also a lot of low quality/badly put together straps that are simply not worth to attached to a 5-figure luxury item and today, we have one that you should be aware.

Our friends at Tempomat not only provide great rubber options for some of the best-established watch brands but they also have quality leather that can be quite versatile. Join me to discover their Epson Leather offerings.

The strap and the watch

A good quality strap feels at home in a good quality watch. For this review we have used my personal Excelsior Park Bi- Compax, which is the full black variant. This is one of my favourite watches because it ticks all the boxes for me; it is manual, Swiss made and under 38mm with vintage proportions, basically it has it all. The watch comes with an outstanding beads of rice bracelet and not only excels at being an everyday chronograph (which is something hard to achieve) but also is a looker. But, because of the size, the watch could use a more lively set up which is why we have chosen the light blue Epson strap from the Madrid guys.

The blue and black make the watch stand out much more, it keeps the vintage vibes alive but also provides a modern aura. It really feels like a new watch, lighter and more manageable than the solid steel bracelet. Sure, it is a more elegant, casual look but feels just at home.

The strap

As mentioned, it is always ideal to pair a luxury item with something of equal quality and the Epson strap doesn’t disappoint. The outer stitching is well defined and consistent while the tapering from 20mm to 16mm makes the wearing experience a good one. The underside is quite beautiful with a tan underlaying and embossed logo, and the quick release spring bar system makes everything easier. We also quite enjoyed the attention to detail on the buckle as not only feels elegant, but it mixes brushed and polish surfaces, quite nice.

The thickness of a strap is also something hard to play with, too thick and it feels uncomfortable and too thin and might be seen as cheap. The 2.5mm of our Epson feel just right, not heavy and allowing the wrist to breathe at ease with plenty of holes for adjustment.

Because of the shade of blue, the Epson would feel at home with a white dial as well, it has the nautical vibe to it that will wear well with a diver’s watch. We know it would be odd to pair something that would be on water with leather but, perhaps a vintage offering? Something that must stay dry? I am sure it would look quite good.

The price of the Epson Blue leather strap is quite reasonable at 90 EUR especially considering our 2000 USD price tag of the Excelsior Park Bi-Compax. We also consider the quality of the strap as a whole and not forgetting that you are taking the watch out of a great OEM stainless steel bracelet to begin with.

We would say that if you want to change the looks of a watch and chase that feeling of having something new without breaking the bank, a quality strap like the one at Tempomat could be a great option.

For more information, please visit here:

https://tempomaterials.com/en-uk/products/blue-epson-leather-strap

Technical specifications:

·       Handmade leather strap in 20mm  (20-16)

·       Fitting every watch with 20mm lug width.

·       Stainless steel buckle.

·       2,5mm Thickness.

·       Quick release springbars.

·       Measures : 11,5cm x 7cm + buckle