Tudor FXD Strap Options

The Tudor Pelagos FXD is a distinctive dive watch, rooted in its naval heritage and characterized by a robust and functional design. While it has its constraints, particularly with the fixed lug bars, many owners find these to be a charming part of its identity. This feature necessitates the use of single-pass straps, although custom pieces that wrap around each fixed bar are also an option.

When selecting a strap for the FXD, opt for materials that aren’t too thick or rigid, as they may not conform well to the wrist given the watch’s unique lug configuration. The Pelagos FXD is a watch that embraces boldness, so don’t hesitate to experiment with colour and style. Its daring design can handle vibrant hues and striking patterns effortlessly.

The market offers a variety of straps suitable for the FXD, each catering to different tastes and preferences.

Single-Pass NATO straps are a classic choice for the FXD, available in a plethora of colours and designs. These straps provide a secure and versatile fit, making them a popular option for many FXD owners. Velcro straps are incredibly user-friendly and provide easy adjustability. Some brands offer superior alternatives to the stock Velcro strap that comes with the FXD. For those seeking a more genuine strap, those that wrap around the fixed bars can add a unique flair to the FXD.

Premium Ribbed NATO – Green/Red

Yorkshire Watch Straps is a brand dedicated to delivering high-quality, affordable watch straps to enthusiasts. Ben, the passionate founder, has made it his mission to offer a wide range of durable and stylish options at accessible prices.

Recently, Yorkshire Watch Straps sent over three single-pass Velcro straps for review. These straps exemplify Ben’s commitment to providing great products that don’t break the bank. Though currently available only on Etsy and eBay, the brand boasts an impressive selection of colours and designs.

Premium Ribbed NATO – Blue Bond

Premium Ribbed NATO – Light Grey

Yorkshire Watch Straps offers 15 different colour options for their Velcro straps. However, it’s important to measure your wrist accurately before purchasing, as the straps we received were slightly short. Fortunately, Ben assures us that they stock longer lengths in some colours, so checking availability is key.

In terms of practicality, these Velcro straps are a notable improvement over the stock straps issued by Tudor. They offer a secure fit, ease of adjustment, and a comfortable wear experience. Their robust design ensures they stay firmly in place, making them ideal for active lifestyles or daily use.

The Simplicity Of A Velcro Strap

Ben’s passion for watches and dedication to quality shines through in Yorkshire Watch Straps. The combination of affordability, variety, and the functional advantages of Velcro make these straps a fantastic option for anyone looking to enhance their watch-wearing experience. Keep an eye on their Etsy and eBay stores as they continue to expand their range and provide great value to the watch community.

Yorkshire Watch Straps offers exceptional value for money, especially when compared to the cost of replacement straps from brands like Tudor. For the price of just one Tudor strap, you could order at least three from Yorkshire Watch Straps. This makes them a highly economical choice for those looking to expand their strap collection without overspending.

Grappleband – FDE/Coyote

Hawkrigger specialises in straps for those seeking a military-inspired aesthetic. We received two of their offerings—the Grappleband and the O-Rig—both of which are excellent companions for the Tudor Pelagos FXD. While these straps don’t feature a quick-fit system and require threading through the bars and buckle, they provide outstanding comfort and look impressive on the wrist.

Of the two, the Grappleband stands out as a favourite. Its unique design allows for easy removal: once adjusted, simply unhook one end from the specialised buckle to take it off. This design makes it not only secure but also user-friendly after the initial setup.

Outstanding Quality

The O-Rig strap, though slightly more traditional, requires a bit of threading too. Watching the fitting video a few times is recommended to get the fitting process right. It functions similarly to a NATO strap, requiring the excess length to be folded over and passed through a secondary buckle. While it might take a bit of practice, it offers a classic military look once fitted correctly.

Riverine O-Rig Classic – Army Green

As personal preferences evolve, many, including myself, find elastic straps like the Grappleband more comfortable than their counterparts. The elasticity provides a snug yet flexible fit that adapts to wrist movements throughout the day.

Stu, the founder of Hawkrigger, offers a wide range of straps in different colours, all inspired by military themes. These colours, although rugged and tactical, complement a variety of watches and outfits. In addition to straps, Hawkrigger also boasts a selection of belts with innovative buckle systems. While they may require watching a short video for proper adjustment, these straps are straightforward to fit once the technique is mastered, ensuring a perfect and secure fit.

David from The Strap Tailor has carved out a reputable niche in the UK with his diverse collection of high-quality watch straps. His brand offers an extensive selection of various materials, including premium leathers, skins, Sail-Cloth, and a specialised Military range. Today, we’re spotlighting two straps from his Premium Military range, known for their exceptional fabric single-piece construction.

The Strap Tailor’s platform stands out for its vast inventory and competitive pricing, making it a go-to for watch enthusiasts seeking both variety and value. The brand’s range includes single-pass straps, reminiscent of the classic NATO style (though sellers must now use different terminology for international sales to avoid legal issues).

So Much Choice

The two straps we have from this collection are particularly noteworthy. They are designed as single-piece straps, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, and feature a signed buckle that adds a touch of refinement. The craftsmanship is evident, ensuring durability and a high-quality feel that complements any watch.

Woven Single Pass – Gold/Khaki

Premium Ribbed – Ocean Blue

These straps come in a variety of colours, from subtle, understated hues to vibrant, bold options, ensuring there’s something to match every taste and watch. The two we tested are perfect companions for the Tudor Pelagos FXD. They are not only simple to fit but also incredibly comfortable for all-day wear.

David’s offerings are a testament to his commitment to quality and affordability. Whether you’re looking for a classic look or something more contemporary, The Strap Tailor’s straps provide the perfect blend of style, comfort, and durability. At very competitive prices, these straps represent excellent value for money, making them a must-consider for any watch enthusiast.

NDC Straps, helmed by Jacko, stand out in the watch strap market for their rich historical significance and unique origin. Unlike many modern straps, NDC Straps are deeply rooted in military history, specifically that of the French Navy during the 1960s and 1970s.

The Marine Nationale, the French Navy’s equivalent of the Navy SEALs, known as “Nageur de Combat,” developed a practical solution for their watches using materials at hand. These elite Combat Swimmers would repurpose the elastic from their reserve parachutes, threading it through their issued watches and sewing it into a simple but effective single-loop strap. This inventive approach created a durable and reliable strap, suitable for the rigorous demands of military use.

The Real Deal

Today, NDC Straps capture this authentic legacy. Jacko managed to trace back to the original French manufacturer and acquired a substantial stock of unused, now obsolete material from the era. This material, which has remained untouched for decades, serves as the foundation for NDC Straps, ensuring each piece is steeped in history.

NDC Original Strap

Green/Yellow

While retaining the essence of their military predecessors, these straps have evolved to meet contemporary standards. They now feature modern touches like buckles and hooks, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. The distinctive green with a yellow pinstripe running down the centre harks back to their original design, offering a genuine nod to the past.

The Military Classic

Much like other elastic straps, NDC Straps are praised for their comfort. The material’s stretchability ensures a snug fit without compromising ease of wear. For those seeking the “Original” elastic strap, NDC provides unmatched authenticity. These straps are not mere replicas but a continuation of a legacy, offering a piece of history for your wrist.

NDC Straps bring a compelling blend of heritage and functionality to the table. Their historical provenance and meticulous craftsmanship make them more than just watch straps; they are pieces of living history. For anyone looking to add a genuine touch of military heritage to their watch, NDC Straps are the definitive choice.

As someone who typically gravitates towards aftermarket straps over traditional bracelets, the Tudor Pelagos FXD aligns perfectly with my preferences, making it an indispensable part of my collection. Its design and functionality truly resonate with me, and I couldn’t be more pleased with how it fits into my everyday wear.

We’ve explored a range of strap options sent in for review, each offering a unique style and feel. Rather than picking a favourite, I believe each strap brings something distinct to the table. As an FXD owner, it’s almost essential to have a variety of straps in your arsenal, allowing you to mix and match based on your mood or outfit. Whether it’s a robust NATO, a versatile Velcro, or an comfortable Elastic, having the flexibility to switch it up is part of the joy of owning this watch.

Reflections on the Tudor FXD Strap Options

Writing about the Tudor FXD strap options has been a pleasure, as this watch is one of my absolute favourites. Its ability to continually offer something new with each wear keeps it exciting and fresh. The Tudor Pelagos FXD is not merely a timepiece; it’s a bold statement of style and function. The fixed lug bars, while initially presenting a challenge, actually open up a world of strap possibilities. This unique feature allows for the exploration of a myriad of strap options that can amplify the watch’s rugged yet sophisticated character.

The Tudor Pelagos FXD invites boldness and creativity in accessorising. It challenges the conventional and encourages owners to explore different strap options that enhance its multifaceted appeal. Embrace the journey of discovering the perfect strap for your FXD, and let this exceptional watch shine with its daring and versatile spirit. Each strap you choose is not just an accessory but a way to reflect your personal style and the ever-evolving narrative of this remarkable timepiece.

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