Straps
When it comes to Chinese vintage watches, original accompanying straps are surprisingly uncommon. With a few notable exceptions from the earliest period of Chinese watchmaking, most watches were not sold with a dedicated, model-specific strap.
Certain collectible models—such as the Shanghai 24-jewel military diver, the Sea-Gull commemorative watches, and the Fenglei 304 chronograph—were among the rare examples that came in individual presentation boxes and were paired with specific straps or bracelets. However, these pieces were the exception rather than the rule.
Most Chinese watches were distributed in boxes of ten and typically consisted of watch heads only. Customers would then select their preferred strap separately, whether leather, stainless steel, or nylon. Many of these straps and bracelets were produced by specialised accessory manufacturers, other watch factories, or smaller companies dedicated entirely to strap making.
This flexibility was an integral part of the original ownership experience. Rather than being tied to a single factory-issued strap, owners could adapt their watches to suit different occasions, preferences, and styles.
This collection celebrates that tradition. Whether you choose a vintage strap or a newly made one, we encourage you to experiment, mix styles, and enjoy the versatility that has always been part of Chinese watch collecting. A single watch can take on many different personalities—sometimes all it takes is a change of strap.
