Strap for DolceVita 26 Quartz Stainless Steel Roman

The lug width of the Longines DolceVita L5.655.4.71.6 is precisely 20.00 millimetres. This measurement is exact: the distance between the two spring bar pins protruding from the case at 12 and 6 o'clock is exactly 20 mm. It is not advisable to force 20.5 mm straps, as tolerances are very tight to protect both case and strap. On milanostraps.it you will find a complete selection of straps calibrated to this specific measurement.

The Longines DolceVita was conceived to accommodate elegant leather straps. Genuine alligator is the archetypal choice: the fine and regular grain confers understated sophistication and a superior tactile sensation. Vegetable-tanned calf leather represents a contemporary alternative that develops natural patina over time. For those desiring less formal versions, a high-twist textile NATO remains coherent with the model's classical spirit. Rubber is not recommended, as its technical connotation clashes with the elegant DNA of the timepiece. Shell cordovan remains the choice of absolute excellence for those wishing to elevate the aesthetic profile further.

To change the strap, you must remove the spring bars (pins) that connect the strap to the case lugs. Using a dedicated tool (spring bar tool), insert the flat tip into the small hole of the pin to compress the internal spring, facilitating extraction. Extract the pin from below. Repeat for the other pin. Insert the new strap with the lugs aligned to the holes, and reinsert the pins by pressing them until you hear the locking click. If this is not your first time, it is advisable to consult a watchmaker to avoid damaging the case.

Yes, the DolceVita L5.655.4.71.6 accepts any strap with a 20-millimetre lug width. However, constructive quality and the aesthetic choice of leather are crucial elements in not degrading the elegant profile of the timepiece. On milanostraps.it a curated collection of artisanal 20mm straps is available, made in alligator, vegetable-tanned calf, shell cordovan and other materials, all compatible with your DolceVita's lugs. The Casati Milano atelier also offers the possibility of creating bespoke straps with complete customisation.

The lifespan of a leather strap depends on usage, type of tanning and constructive quality. A quality artisanal alligator or calf leather, with vegetable tanning, maintains optimal functionality between 3 and 5 years with regular wear and basic maintenance (occasional cleaning, protection from stagnant water and direct heat sources). Shell cordovan, due to its density and compactness, can last 7-10 years or more. Straps produced by Casati Milano include an 18-month warranty and are constructed with artisanal meticulousness that extends their longevity. The natural patina that forms over time does not represent deterioration, but rather an aesthetic customisation that confers unique character to the strap.