Strap for Chronographs Montreal / Stainless Steel / Silver

The Laco Chronographs 861920 features a lug width of 20 millimetres, measured between the centres of the lug holes. This dimension is specific to Laco's chronograph generation and represents a deliberate design decision balancing case proportion with strap stability. To verify compatibility with alternative straps, use a digital calliper or metric ruler: measurement precision to one-tenth of a millimetre is essential.

For the Laco Chronographs 861920, alligator leather with vegetable tanning in dark brown represents the most authentic aesthetic choice: the natural grain of the pellam valorises the instrument's constructive seriousness, whilst the patina developing over time adds visual depth. Alternatively, vegetable-tanned calf with regular texture transforms the chronograph into an executive instrument suitable for formal contexts. A NATO strap in bondtex maintains the military heritage without compromise; FKM rubber with knurled texture is ideal for outdoor operations, sacrificing elegance in favour of grip and durability under extreme conditions.

The Laco Chronographs 861920 utilises standard straight lugs: remove the spring bars using a spring bar tool or a soft wooden tip. Position the tool perpendicular to the lug, press gently towards the case centre to release the spring, then extract the lug. Repeat on the opposite lug. When installing the new strap, ensure both spring bars click firmly into position with an audible click: the case must not move relative to the strap. If you engage Atelier Casati Milano, professionals will perform the replacement under direct observation, guaranteeing zero risk of case scratching.

Yes, any strap with 20 millimetre lug width is compatible with the Laco 861920, regardless of manufacturer. Compatibility is guaranteed by ISO standardisation of spring bars. However, verify that the strap's visual width at the lug insertion point corresponds to case proportions: an excessively thick strap (exceeding 4–5 millimetres) may appear visually unbalanced. Prefer manufacturers specialising in bespoke straps, where stitching and materials are selected for durability and patina consistent with the instrument's vocation.

A quality vegetable-tanned leather strap, worn regularly (five days weekly), exhibits appreciable aesthetic degradation after 18–24 months: colour fades, patina becomes irregular, edges soften. Structural durability is greater – vegetable leather does not fracture easily – but visibility of wear necessitates replacement to maintain coherence with the 861920's constructive precision. An FKM rubber strap maintains tactical functionality for 3–4 years with minimal aesthetic degradation. NATO bondtex straps endure beyond five years without appreciable ageing. Store the original strap in a dry environment: leather can be regenerated by specialist artisans through selective re-greasing with traditional vegetable oils.