Strap for La Grande Classique Automatic 38 PVD Gold / White - Roman

The lug width is 20mm. This is the internal space between the two lugs of the case where the strap must sit. Measuring this value precisely is essential: a 19mm strap would be loose, whilst a 21mm strap would not fit at all. Longines chose this specific dimension to maintain the correct visual proportions of the 38mm case.

The choice depends on context and personal preference. Mississippi alligator offers absolute luxury with patina that improves over years. Shell cordovan is elegant and durable, with natural lustre. Calf with vegetable tanning is versatile and breathable, ideal for daily wear. NATO is the informal and practical option. Rubber frees the watch from care anxiety whilst keeping it fresh and contemporary. Each material valorises the classical design of this model differently.

The strap is replaced via spring bars. Use a dedicated tool—a small lever or strap removal tool—to compress the bars laterally. Insert the bar into the hole of the new strap's lug, then release pressure so the bar re-seats in the lug. Repeat on the other side. If you are not experienced, entrust this to a watchmaker: the operation requires care to avoid damaging the lugs.

Absolutely. The critical requirement is that the strap is 20mm in width. Quality artisanal straps fit perfectly onto the spring bars of the case. Milano Straps supplies 20mm straps in various materials—alligator, shell cordovan, calf, NATO, rubber—all calibrated for your Longines. Artisanal quality often exceeds OEM straps in terms of construction and personalisation.

Longevity varies with material and usage. Alligator and shell cordovan, if cared for, easily exceed 5–7 years of daily wear. Vegetable-tanned calf has similar durability but visibly faster patina development. Rubber remains stable for years without aesthetic degradation. Daily wear shortens useful life compared to occasional wear. Atelier Casati Milano offers an 18-month warranty on the strap; after this period, natural wear is inevitable but the strap remains repairable or replaceable.