A replica Vacheron Constantin leather strap fits when the lug width matches the case. Most replica cases take 18mm, 19mm, 20mm or 21mm straps at the lugs. Measure the gap with calipers before you order. Replica cases run up to 0.5mm off the original spec.
Measure the lug width first
Remove the strap. Close the caliper jaws on the inner faces of the two lugs. Read the number twice. A 20mm gap takes a 20mm strap. A 20.4mm gap takes a 21mm strap trimmed at the edges, or a 20mm strap that leaves about 0.2mm of play per side. Check the spring bar diameter as well. Most bars measure 1.8mm. Some replica cases use 1.5mm bars, which need thinner strap ends and different tubes.
Lug widths by model
- Patrimony 40mm: 20mm
- Traditionnelle 38mm: 20mm
- Historiques American 1921 36.5mm: 19mm
- Fiftysix self-winding 40mm: 20mm
- Malte and Quai de l'Ile: 20mm
- Overseas: integrated case, no standard spring bars. Adapters run 24mm at the case and 20mm at the buckle.
Replica Overseas cases ship with a rubber or steel bracelet in most listings. Leather needs a custom adapter with a screw fit. Measure the case opening, not the bracelet width.
Leather types
- Alligator: 2 to 3 large scales per side. Creases at the buckle hole.
- Box calf: smooth finish, takes polish, shows scratches.
- Goat: dense grain, holds shape on thin dress cases.
- Embossed calf: printed alligator pattern, lowest cost, no CITES paperwork.
Thickness and padding
Dress straps run 2.5mm to 3.5mm at the lug and taper to 2mm at the buckle. Padded straps reach 5mm at the lug. A 5mm pad on a 36mm case adds bulk at the lugs. Use 2.5mm or less on cases under 38mm. Sports straps run 4mm to 5mm with a square end.
Clasp and buckle sizing
Tang buckles on these straps measure 16mm or 18mm at the tongue end. A 20mm strap tapers to 18mm for a 16mm buckle, or to 16mm for a 14mm buckle. Deployment clasps need a strap cut 3mm to 5mm shorter than a tang strap, because the clasp adds length at the fold.
Alligator and CITES
Alligator leather needs a CITES permit for cross-border shipping. US imports of alligator watch straps need a CITES document, and commercial shipments need a Fish and Wildlife Service declaration. Calf, goat and embossed leather need no permit. Ask the seller for the permit number before you pay.
Fit and break-in
Measure your wrist with a tape. Standard straps are 115/75mm. Long is 125/85mm. Short is 105/70mm. A 115/75 strap fits a 16.5cm to 18cm wrist on a tang buckle. Hand-stitched leather takes 1 to 2 weeks to shape to the wrist. Alligator creases at the buckle hole and does not recover.
Replica watches are not authorized by Vacheron Constantin SA, a Richemont subsidiary. Trademark status does not change lug width, thickness or clasp size.