The Citizen Zenshin is a light, hard-wearing titanium watch, and it usually arrives on a titanium bracelet. On leather it changes character: warmer and quieter, closer to an everyday dress watch. The case, though, does not take just any strap.
This guide covers the models I make straps for, why a Zenshin strap is cut differently from an ordinary one, and the choices you make when ordering: leather, lining, length and buckle.
Which models the strap fits
The straps in the Citizen Zenshin collection are made for these references:
| Series | References |
|---|---|
| Zenshin Super Titanium | AQ4091-56M, AQ4091-06W, AQ4091-56A |
| Zenshin Automatic (NK5020) | NK5020-58M, NK5020-58P, NK5020-58X, NK5020-58L |
| Eco-Drive (AW0130) | AW0130-85LE, AW0130-85XE, AW0130-85ZE |
| Chronograph (CA4610) | CA4610-85A, CA4610-85L, CA4610-85M, CA4610-85Z |
| Automatic (NJ0180) | NJ0180-80A, NJ0180-80L, NJ0180-80M, NJ0180-80X |
The reference is engraved on the caseback. If yours is not in the list, please write to me with the reference and a photo of the case from the side before you order. I will tell you honestly whether a strap can be made for it.
Why the end of the strap is shaped
On most watches the strap ends in a straight edge that sits between two lugs. The Zenshin case is drawn differently: it runs into the strap, and the end of the strap has to follow its outline. A straight strap of the right width still leaves a gap at the case, or sits awkwardly against it.
So every Zenshin strap I make starts with the end. It is cut to the shape of the case, then lined, stitched and finished by hand like the rest of the strap. You do not need to measure the lug width: it is set by the model, and I cut to it.
Choosing the leather
The Zenshin strap is made in eleven leathers, in three broad groups:
- Alligator: matte, shiny and large grain. The comparisons of matte and shiny alligator and of large grain and classic alligator explain the differences.
- Other exotic leathers: lizard, stingray and ostrich leg.
- Calf and goat: Satinlys, Granite, Sweet and fully vegetable-tanned calf, and French goat.
The titanium case is light, so the strap decides much of how the watch feels. Goat and calf keep it light and supple; alligator gives it more presence.
Lining
The side against your wrist is lined with Zermatt leather from Tanneries Haas, or with goat leather if you prefer. Zermatt is made for watch straps: it resists sweat and stays comfortable.
Length
Lengths run from XS (100/60 mm) to XXL (130/90 mm). The first number is the long side with the holes, the second the side with the buckle. If you are unsure, the simplest way is to measure a strap that already fits you; the guide to choosing strap length and the sizing guide explain how.
Buckle, spring bars and padding
- Buckle: steel in silver or gold, or no buckle if you want to use one you already have.
- Quick-release spring bars: for changing the strap without a tool, €10 extra.
- Padded: a raised strap with more volume, if you like a fuller look.
A standard strap is approximately 2.0 to 2.2 mm thick.
What to send me
For the models above, the order page covers everything. If anything about your watch is unusual, these details help:
- the reference from the caseback;
- the length of a strap that fits you well, or your wrist circumference;
- a photo of the case from the side, if your model is not listed.
Making time
Each strap is cut, stitched and finished by hand to your order. It leaves the workshop within 3–5 weeks.
If you want something outside the options, such as a colour that is not listed or different proportions, I can make it as a bespoke strap.
