Strap for Pilot's Watch Spitfire Double Chronograph Stainless Steel / Silver / German / Bracelet

The lug width of the IWC Pilot IW3713-46 is 21mm. This dimension is specific to this model and represents a non-standard value within the contemporary aviation watch landscape, where 20mm and 22mm predominate. To verify compatibility with your example, measure the internal distance between the two lugs using a calliper or graduated paper strip. At Milano Straps, you will find a complete selection of 21mm straps, chosen for visual proportion with the 42mm case.

Strap selection depends on the intended use case. For actual aviation: black butadiene rubber (non-slip, moisture-resistant) or NATO webbing in thick canvas. For daily formal wear: Mississippi alligator at wide grain (tactile comfort, natural patina development) or vegetable-tanned calf leather (personalised creasing, aesthetic evolution). Cordovan shell in grey-green is the choice of those seeking extraordinary leather and generational durability. All these materials are available in 21mm from our craftsmen, customisable for length and colour.

Strap removal requires a spring bar remover tool (small, two-pronged instrument). Position the flat end of the remover beneath the watch lug, pressing gently downward to compress the internal spring of the spring bar. With your other hand, pull the strap outward. Repeat from the opposite side. Insert the new strap, aligning the holes with the spring bar, ensuring the spring clicks securely into place. Do not force: resistance indicates misalignment. For our 21mm straps, we provide photographic instructions and WhatsApp support.

Yes. All our straps classified within the 21mm collection have been tested for geometric and functional compatibility with the IWC Pilot IW3713-46. Lug width is the critical parameter, and we guarantee precision to within 0.1mm. Each strap may be personalised in length (adjusted to your wrist), colour of metal finishes, leather thickness, and thread type. Our artisanal guarantee is 18 months on the strap, regardless of use.

Longevity depends on material and maintenance. An alligator strap with traditional tanning, worn daily under normal conditions (temperate climate, absence of excessive humidity), maintains structural functionality for 5-7 years before thinning begins. Vegetable-tanned calf lasts 4-6 years and develops a desirable patina. Cordovan shell, owing to the fibre density of the equine dorsal base, achieves 10+ years of intensive wear. Thick canvas NATO webbing resists 3-4 years depending on UV exposure. Butadiene rubber maintains elasticity and resistance for 2-3 years in aviation use (accelerated oxidation). We recommend monthly cleaning with damp cloth and microfibre, avoiding prolonged immersion and direct intense sunlight.