Custom Alligator Strap for Breitling Avenger B01 Chronograph

Different facets of time. One strap — truly personal.

Sometimes, a watch is more than just a mechanism. It’s a marker, a reflection of a chapter completed, a personal milestone. For my client, the Breitling Avenger B01 Chronograph became exactly that — a thoughtful, deliberate, and deeply symbolic choice. The decision followed many conversations, filled with questions and meanings, sometimes where one wouldn’t expect them.

The watch came with three straps: a stainless steel bracelet, a textile strap, and a rubber one. Each served a purpose, fitting different roles and situations. But the leather strap was set apart — intended not just for comfort, but for something personal. A strap that would resonate with the very idea behind the watch.

Material selection was considered down to the finest detail: matte grey alligator leather matched the satin-brushed steel case, while black stitching, edge paint, and lining echoed the tone of the dial. These accents were thoughtfully discussed at every stage — and each found its rightful place.

Breitling watches often feature a bold case and a distinctive strap design with a raised “podium” near the lugs. To preserve this signature aesthetic, the new strap was crafted with matching proportions and shape, yet with added ergonomic refinement. Despite its thickness and volume, it wraps comfortably around the wrist from the very first wear.

The strap was made to fit the original deployant clasp and tailored precisely to the client’s wrist. It features hand-stitched saddle seams with Meisi linen thread, a moisture-resistant and hypoallergenic lining, and internal reinforcement using Jaeger structural materials from Germany.

Beyond aesthetics and ergonomics, material performance also plays a key role in strap selection. Whether it’s leather, silicone, or metal — each has its own advantages and lifecycle. If you’d like to explore how different strap materials behave over time, I’ve written about it in this article.