Strap for Master Collection Big Date

The Longines Master Collection L2.648.4.51.6 has a lug width of 20 millimetres. This measurement corresponds to the distance between the two lateral pins of the case where the strap is attached. You can verify it using a digital calliper or by consulting the original documentation of your watch.

The ideal strap depends on your intended use. For formal elegance we recommend alligator in tobacco or cognac tones, which develops a fascinating patina over time. For versatile daily wear, soft-grain black calf leather offers durability and character. For those seeking distinctive ageing aesthetics, cordovan bordeaux evolves towards increasingly rich tones. A strap finished with vegetable tanning ensures more characterful patination compared to industrial processes.

To change the strap you will need: a spring bar tool, a clean and well-lit work surface, and a new 20mm strap. Position your watch securely, locate the spring bar (small metal pin), insert the removal tool to compress it, and carefully slide out the existing strap. Reverse the procedure with the new strap. If you are uncertain, specialist ateliers offer professional strap-changing services.

Yes, any strap with a 20mm lug width is compatible with the Master Collection L2.648.4.51.6. However, construction quality must be proportionate to the watch's value: regular stitching, robust case lug construction, artisanal finishing, and noble materials ensure a lasting aesthetic and tactile relationship. Handcrafted straps in alligator, calf or shell cordovan significantly elevate the visual and tactile experience of this model.

A handcrafted leather strap of high quality, finished with vegetable tanning, typically lasts between 3 and 7 years depending on leather type and frequency of use. Alligator tends to age most elegantly; calf leather offers greater durability thanks to fibre density; shell cordovan is particularly resistant and develops characteristic patina. Prolonged sun exposure and excessive moisture reduce longevity. Proper maintenance—periodic cleaning and occasional conditioning—significantly extends strap life.