Panerai watch strap ref. 2533: when details matter

I was approached by a customer with an unusual request – to produce a leather strap for the Panerai homage watch ref. 2533, an iconic model with a distinct vintage and military style. The watch is made by master craftsman S. Sofronov by individual order. The peculiarity of this watch is welded lugs, which makes the process of creating the strap not easy and requires non-standard solutions.

The challenge was to create a customised strap that would perfectly match the spirit of the watch: sturdy, reliable and with a distinctive vintage look. Textured buffalo leather in a dark brown colour was chosen for the job. The leather on the strap has a pronounced texture with large pores and irregularities. The buffalo leather is very durable and resistant to wear and tear, ensuring a long life for the strap. The pronounced texture gives the strap a special charm and individuality. The buffalo leather acquires a noble patina and scuffs over time, which perfectly matches the overall vintage style of the watch. Hypoallergenic and water-resistant leather is used as a lining.

The speciality of this project was not only the attachment of the strap to the watch, but also the design of the buckle. The buckle used has a one-piece, non-removable design – it is sewn onto the strap, just as the strap itself is attached to the watch.

The result is a handmade strap that looks like an integral part of the watch, seamlessly complementing its brutal and authentic look. The strap’s 22mm width works well with the large case. The thickness of 3.5mm matches the massive case and military style.

The strap is hand stitched with saddle stitching using waxed linen thread in a warm grey shade.

In the photos you can see how the strap is combined with the bronze watch case covered with patina. The patina on the bronze case adds personality and vintage charm. The leather texture, thread colour and edge treatment, as well as the buckle design – every detail has been considered for maximum harmony and style.