Strap for Villeret Ultraplate Seconde Rétrograde Red Gold / Black

The lug width is 22 mm, measured internally between the shoulders of the lugs excluding the terminal ends that insert into the case. Precise measurement is essential to ensure an aftermarket strap fits without lateral instability or compromising the case's aesthetic proportions.

Authentic Mississippi alligator leather processed through traditional Italian tanning is the most coherent choice with the Villeret's classical nature. The natural grain texture aligns harmoniously with the case's minimalist profile. High-grade calfskin and vulcanised rubber are valid alternatives for immediate patina development or moisture resistance respectively.

Remove the lugs from the case using an appropriate tool (spring bar tool or gentle tweezers). Carefully insert the lug into the upper and lower case terminals, sliding the strap inward until mechanical resistance. Avoid abrupt movements to prevent case scratching. If inexperienced, consult a professional watchmaker.

A high-quality Mississippi alligator strap with 22 mm lug width, crafted through traditional vegetable tanning methods, represents the optimal level of aesthetic and technical compatibility. Avoid synthetic straps or those with imprecise lug widths, as these compromise case stability and diminish the thin case's visual coherence.

A quality leather strap typically lasts between 3 and 8 years depending on usage intensity and environmental conditions. Alligator, whilst delicate, resists deterioration better than standard calfskin due to its characteristic fibre structure. Prolonged exposure to moisture and heat accelerates ageing. Regular maintenance—drying after bathing and dry storage—significantly extends longevity.