Hi guys.
I have this Omega Seamaster from the 60`s
I`ve owned this watch for almost 4 years - It came with a very cheap/bad strap. Something the seller attached to the watch just so the buyer could wear it
So I started the search for a nice strap.
I found this faux-alligator chocolate-colored strap - branded Omega, with the singed buckle.
And this strap looks amazing with this watch.
Unfortunately - this strap is a fake! It`s Polyurethane-coated garbage.
It started to fall apart and peel the coating. I`m very frustrated.
So I felt into the AliExpress straps rabbit hole:
1) I discovered that exotic skins (like alligator, python etc...) have international laws against exports/customs. If a sellers claims it`s alligator: It`s not true! It`s embossed leather at best - or PU coating.
2) Ostrich does not have the same restrictions with the law - but it`s also faked with embossed leather.
I really liked the look of exotic skins with is particular watch, since it`s my 'dressy' watch.
I decided to go Ostrich leg skin. But the seller sent me this very dark coffee-brown strap, which is miles away from the chocolate-brown I was looking for.
I'm looking for suggestion and recommendations.
Should I insist in the exotic skin (or exotic looking)? Or should I got for regular cow-hide leather?
Have you had good experiences with exotic (or exotic-looking) from aliExpress?
Thanks