designboom · Creativity & design

Helvetus Reimagines Integrated Luxury Watch Straps with FKM Rubber

Helvetus is developing FKM rubber straps specifically designed for Rolex watches, aiming to integrate seamlessly with the watch case while offering enhanced durability and resistance.

FKM rubber, known for industrial use, is now adopted for luxury watch straps due to its resistance and stability. This allows straps to function as engineered components, complementing integrated watch case designs.

Helvetus creates reference-specific straps, ensuring a precise fit with curved ends that meet the watch lugs without gaps, while utilizing the original buckle.

Unlike silicone, FKM offers superior chemical resistance and dimensional stability. It also maintains its molded form better than silicone, though it's harder to process and less color-receptive.

Rolex's Oysterflex strap is a hybrid design featuring a metal alloy blade overmolded with an elastomer.

Aftermarket strap development requires them to fit existing cases, work with original buckles, and maintain the watch's proportions. Machined end pieces are crucial.

Helvetus's FKM rubber range for Rolex is organized by specific watch models, emphasizing a tailored approach.

Using a replaceable strap can help preserve the original watch bracelet by concentrating wear on the strap, which can be exchanged independently.

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