Strap for Villeret Tourbillon Volant Une Minute 12 Jours Red Gold

The Blancpain Villeret 66240-3631-55B features a lug width of 23 millimetres. This measurement represents the distance between the lug pins, taken perpendicular to the case. Any compatible strap must have an internal width of exactly 23 millimetres to ensure precise and secure attachment to the platinum case.

For a Blancpain Villeret of this calibre, we recommend an alligator Nile with vegetable tanning or shell cordovan. Brown chocolate alligator enhances the purity of the cream dial and platinum, whilst ageing naturally over time. Shell cordovan offers superior structural integrity and intrinsic lustre that dialogues perfectly with the precious metal. Both, however, require artisanal craftsmanship of quality to express their aesthetic and functional potential.

Changing the strap on a Villeret requires a spring bar removal tool. Insert the tool horizontally beneath the pin, compress the internal spring until the pin releases, then extract the pin from the lug eyelets. Reverse the procedure for the new strap, ensuring the pin is fully seated and the spring bar clicks securely into position. Proceed with caution on a platinum case to avoid surface scratching.

Yes, aftermarket straps may be used provided they are manufactured to the 23-millimetre lug width specification. However, for a timepiece of this category and value, we strongly recommend artisanal straps of certified quality, such as those handcrafted by Casati Milano with 18-month warranty. Avoid industrial standard straps as they would neither align aesthetically nor functionally with Blancpain manufacturing.

Strap longevity depends on material and usage. Alligator Nile with vegetable tanning, worn regularly but not daily, maintains structural integrity for 5 to 7 years. Shell cordovan, being denser, achieves 7 to 10 years. Calf leather offers longevity of 3 to 5 years due to lower density. Exposure to humidity, extreme temperatures and direct sunlight accelerates ageing. Casati Milano warrants 18 months against manufacturing defects; natural aesthetic and functional wear remains the wearer's responsibility.