Custom Black calfskin for Ferrari watch

Some watches hold memories, milestones, and meaning.

A leather strap can extend the life of a watch by decades, but more importantly, it helps keep the memories tied to that watch alive.

That’s what makes projects like this so rewarding. This Ferrari diver is a sentimental piece for its owner, and it deserved to be wearable again.

Handing it back after weeks of work felt like the true completion of the project. Seeing it on the wrist again — secure, comfortable, and looking the part. It's the best reminder of why I love this craft.

Take a look at the final images and you’ll see that this strap required not only custom ends, but also a delicate installation process.

This watch uses a pin-and-collar system instead of spring bars, demanding absolute precision. At twelve o’clock, the clasp was even more intricate: two screw pins and two spacers. At six o’clock, the end was friction-fit with only a millimetre of clearance to pass through.

It was work that called for patience and focus. The end result is rock solid on the wrist, pairing supple calfskin with the rugged, functional nature of a diver-style case.

That balance, comfort, strength, and intent, is why projects like this are such a privilege to take on.

A big thank you to my client for trusting me with his watch for this project, and for the opportunity to photograph it on his wrist

Strap specs:
Custom black calfskin - padded + custom ends
Natural kangaroo lining
White side stitching
20/18mm
80/70mm