We have all been there, at some point on our watch collection journey, seemingly satisfied with our carefully selected collection. “Maybe this is it, i,ve won the watch game.” But one day, perusing the internet, you find something new and shiny that catches your eye. Then, again starts the inevitable spiral of never ending searching, for something new, something fresh. The constant urge to fill your fifteen spot watch box. To you I say, HOLD OFF! You don’t need to drop another grand on a new Tissot diver. Try a new strap…
In the discerning world of horology, where meticulous craftsmanship meets contemporary trends, the selection of a watch strap is a consequential decision that defines a timepiece’s character. In this comprehensive review, we direct our attention to the Montreux Strap, a deviation from traditional materials that promises a synthesis of sophistication and durability in the world of the rubber band.
Our exploration starts with examining a few unique attributes of this unconventional material, evaluating the Montreux strap’s ability to seamlessly blend modern aesthetics with the resilience expected of a luxury accessory, for a reasonable price. An in-depth assessment of its design intricacies, material quality, and overall performance aims to elucidate whether Montreux strikes an equilibrium between tradition and innovation, without breaking the bank.
Montreux was kind enough to send me a sample for review, and although I’ve never been a rubber strap aficionado, my experience may have sparked something. Having received a sample product, this is an unpaid review allowing us complete objectivity in this first look at this Florida based brand.
Montreux has several different color options by now, including black, dark red, red, orange, navy, blue, light blue, and white. I chose the color white for this review, in part because white is a versatile color, but also being ideal to test its durability and ability to repel dirt and grime. After a week on the wrist I was pleasantly surprised, so hold on.
The Unboxing Experience
Let’s start here, not the place you would usually start with a strap review right? As any watch enthusiast will tell you, the journey of unboxing a new accessory is a moment of ceremonial excitement, setting the tone for the entire ownership experience.
If you have ever ordered a watch band, this unique concept of an “unboxing experience” is the last on your list of expectations. I had the same philosophy before about two weeks ago. Montreux presents your brand new band in simple but solidly built and well designed packaging. I have never been a hoarder, but this box gives me the same exotic allure a luxury watch box might. The thought of throwing something away that had so much thought into the design seemed quite wasteful. Perhaps, I could take a leaf from Ed Sheeran’s book and store some weed in it.
A magnetic soft close lid makes a satisfying close. The form fitting enclosure just oozes luxury, and your brand new, carefully laid out rubber strap awaits your love and affection in all its glory. What is going on here, this is a watch strap not a Rolex. It’s slightly absurd to spend so much time on packaging, but lavishness is all in the details.
Design & Quality
The first thing that struck me upon inspecting the Montreux band was its design which held subtle details to differentiate it from an Amazon or Aliexpress special. Meticulously crafted to marry modern aesthetics with tactical usability, the strap seamlessly blended into the visual identity of my chosen watch, a Tissot Tradition Chronograph, accenting the white dial beautifully. The subtle detailing, such as the soft textured micro-pattern on the surface or the precisely engraved logo, added a touch of sophistication without overshadowing the overall design.
One of the standout features was the thoughtful curvature and contouring of the band, ensuring a snug fit around my wrist. The ergonomic design not only contributed to the overall comfort but also accentuated the visual appeal. The buckle, a seemingly minor detail, impressed me with its secure and seamless operation. One thing I definitely took notice of was the weight from the etched metal clasp, indicating the machined quality and elevating the overall user experience.
The biggest stand out from many other rubber straps I have tried was how it felt to the touch. Many Amazon straps have a cheap rubber sticky type feel that only gets worse as time goes on. It is hard to describe how this one feels in the hands, almost soft, as if it would form to any shape. This, being exactly what we want from a strap. This owed, likely, to Montreux’ signature “FKM vulcanized rubber.”
Wearing Experience
Our test sample spent most of its time on my Tissot chronograph, which purposefully also had a white dial. The goal for the week was to test whether Montreux lives up to the daily wear, weatherproof livestyle they advertise. And I think it does.
I may have been slightly unfair in going for the white. White inherently gathers dirt, exaggerating just how much grime gets everywhere you touch. From your wrist to the table to the door handle, the average watch enthusiast probably has no idea how dirty their watch really is. All this in mind, our test strap held up rather well. After a full week of wear, in and out, I only just started to notice some brown tainting on a few of the high friction areas. Something to keep in mind when considering a color for a watch band.
The best part of the wearing experience is the overall fit and feel. These bands do come standard quite long, as to ensure a fit for a large variety of wrists. I myself am sporting about a 6.5 inch wrist and I would say it fits nicely and could recommend for wrists as small as 6 inches before you start to get some overhang. After two weeks of wear and the rest of the time spent in a watch case, no stress points or band stretching was noticeable, it still feels new.
Pros & Cons
We have talked rather extensively up to this point about all aspects of this band, and all mostly positive. The truth is there is not a lot wrong with Montreux’ strap, but if youre reading a review about a watch band, you’re likely to care about the gritty details, so let’s dive into why you should or shouldn’t consider Montrex as your rubber band of choice.
First the cons, let’s get this out of the way. The Achilles heel for Montreux, at least for the moment, is the lack of size options. My sample came in 20mm, and that is currently the only size available. So if your watch does not have a 20mm lug with, you are out of luck. According to the CEO there are plans to launch a 22mm version in the first quarter of 2024. We’ll have to cross our fingers that in the future we will see 18mm, 19mm, and the infamous 21mm lug options.
The pros; there are plenty, let us review.
The most prevalent to me is the wearing experience, specifically the comfortability on the wrist. This is one of those watch straps that lets you simply enjoy the presence of a horological piece of art on your wrist, and when you’re not gazing at your beautiful dial, you forget you’re wearing it. This is the mark of any well designed watch band or bracelet. Montreux definitely shines in that area.
Second has to be the build quality and overall luxury experience. The vulcanized rubber is soft and wrist forming. The clasp is heavy and well crafted. Overall it is hard to find fault with the way it wears, and the way it will transform your watch, giving a bit of new spark to an old flame.
Final Thoughts
To wrap up, let us finally answer the question. Should you spend $45 on a rubber watch band? For the most part, yes you should. One could buy a cheaper band, and have it wear out in a year, or you could spend $300 and get the ultimate quality strap, just so you can boast to your friends that your watch band costs more than their Seiko. $45 is a happy medium, providing you with quality and longevity without draining your savings.
For $45 will buy you a nice unboxing experience, several different colorways, and significant durability. So if you do happen to have a couple watches that fit the 20mm or 22mm lug width, you would be hard pressed to find a better alternative.