Haberler

The Perfect Strap for Your Cartier Santos

The Cartier Santos is a design icon – timeless, refined, and instantly recognizable. A watch like this deserves a strap that meets its elegance and elevates its presence. When creating straps for the Santos, I take extra care to ensure perfect compatibility with the quick-release mechanism. Whether in shiny alligator leather or soft French goat, each strap is hand-cut and saddle stitched to blend seamlessly with the case. Clients often request Zermatt lining for added comfort and durability. The end result is a strap that doesn’t just fit the watch,...

My story began in 1988 when my grandfather and father opened a humble shoe repair shop. Working with leather wasn’t just a trade – it was a passion and a craft passed down in our family. Over time, they pursued other paths, but that artisanal spirit always remained with us. In 2015, while continuing my university studies, I entered the professional world. Years later, I decided to return to my roots. In 2022, I started Swanco Leather Goods. Soon, I realized my work was deeply personal – it deserved a...

What makes a strap truly bespoke? The details. Every client is different, and so is every strap. When discussing lining, I ask about the client’s lifestyle. If they’re active, I recommend Zermatt for its comfort and sweat resistance. For stitch color, I offer options – tone-on-tone for minimalism, or bold contrasts like red or white. Many clients request monograms. I hand-stamp initials or names on the inner lining – a small but meaningful way to personalize their piece. Custom straps aren’t just about fit. They’re about expressing who you are.

Saddle stitching, though time-consuming, defines the personality of a strap. It uses two needles to create an interlocking stitch that won’t unravel even if one thread breaks. It’s strong, secure, and incredibly beautiful. Machine stitching may be consistent and fast, but it can’t replicate the depth, feel, and longevity of hand stitching. With hand stitching, even the tiny imperfections make the piece more personal and authentic. To me, saddle stitching isn’t just a method – it’s a mindset. It’s a reflection of slowing down and respecting the material.

One of the most important decisions when making a strap is selecting the leather. Over the years, I’ve learned that leather isn’t just about looks – it’s about touch, durability, and how it ages. French goat leather (Chevre) stands out with its texture, scratch resistance, and vibrant colors. It’s lightweight, flexible, and ages beautifully. For lining, I almost always go with Zermatt by Tanneries Haas. It’s exceptionally soft against the skin and highly resistant to sweat – perfect for comfort and longevity. Sometimes, I work with vegetable-tanned leathers like Badalassi...

I realized early on that a watch strap is not just an accessory – it's a product of true craftsmanship. When I began handcrafting straps, I wasn’t simply threading stitches; I was weaving in time, patience, and emotion. Machine-made production is fast and efficient, yes. But handcrafting carries the soul of the maker. Each stitch done with saddle stitching, each hole pierced by hand – it all adds up to something that feels truly alive. Many of my clients tell me they can sense that their strap carries a story....

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