Strap for Navitimer 01 43 Red Gold / Black Arabic / Calf / Pin

The Breitling Navitimer RB012012/BB07/433X/R20BA.1 features a lug width of 22mm. This measurement refers to the internal distance between the two lugs on the case, which determines the compatible strap width. To verify this on your own piece, it is advisable to measure with a digital calliper close to the case, near the lug roots.

Given the 18-carat red gold case, the most congruous materials are alligator leather in cognac or tobacco tones, vegetable-tanned calfskin in tan or havana, and shell cordovan in bordeaux or mahogany. A deployant clasp in red gold completes the pairing by maintaining metallic coherence with the case. Stainless steel hardware is best avoided, as it creates an inelegant chromatic discontinuity with the warm gold tone.

To replace the strap on a Navitimer, a dedicated springbar tool is required — either a forked lug tool or a fine flat-blade screwdriver. Insert the tool into the lug slot, compress the springbar pin, and slide the strap free. Care must be taken to avoid scratching the red gold lugs; protecting the case with low-tack adhesive tape or entrusting the operation to a watchmaker is strongly recommended.

Yes. The 22mm lug width is a widely adopted standard, offering an extensive selection of quality aftermarket straps. MilanoStraps crafts bespoke straps in alligator, calfskin, shell cordovan and other materials at 22mm width, available with deployant or pin buckles in various colours and finishes suited to the red gold case of this reference.

The lifespan of a leather strap depends on hide quality, tanning method and daily wear conditions. A high-quality alligator or vegetable-tanned calfskin strap, cared for properly and rotated regularly with other straps, can last between three and six years while maintaining a respectable appearance. Frequent exposure to perspiration, water and heat accelerates deterioration. MilanoStraps straps carry an 18-month warranty against manufacturing defects.