Watches these days come in almost every strap and bracelet material imaginable. Stainless steel, precious metals, leather, rubber, and ceramic—name it, and you’re sure to find it. While some watch owners prefer a specific material for its style, others opt for one that is more durable for daily wear.
This is particularly the case with rubber. This material is regarded not only for its durability but for its easy maintenance requirements as well. However, it remains a good idea to take proactive steps to keep it in good shape. Just as metal bracelets and leather straps require regular upkeep, so do rubber straps.
Why Should You Maintain Your Rubber Watch Straps?
Rubber straps are primarily made of either natural rubber or silicone. You would usually find them on sports watches. But, these days, luxury watch brands like Omega are producing rubber-strapped sports pieces that could easily pass as dress watches.
Between leather, nylon, fabric, and rubber, the latter is, by far, the easiest to clean and maintain. When properly made, a rubber watch strap can weather all the elements over long periods. It means you afford yourself an investment piece with a reasonable cost per wear.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Rubber Watch Strap
Cleaning a rubber watch strap is easier than many other types of watch bands. Here, you only have to use water and mild soap instead of a polish or leather conditioner. This should clean off dirt, grime, and salt to help protect the natural patina of the strap.
Other than cleaning, you should also take the steps to prevent damage to your rubber strap. These involve avoiding exposure to elements that could age the rubber material prematurely:
- direct sunlight
- salty water
- perfume
- cologne
- excessive sweat
When you’re using products such as bug sprays and sunscreen, make sure to rinse them off the strap at every end of the day. These, along with alcohol-based products can fade, dry out, and eventually crack the strap. In addition to these, it also pays to follow manufacturer directions on how to clean and maintain your rubber watch brand.
You’ll Love These Rubber Watches From Omega
With the above tips, you should be equipped with information on how to properly maintain a rubber-strapped watch and prolong its life. If you haven’t ever owned one, this could be the sign that you’re ready to purchase your first. That said, check out our recommendations of the best rubber watches you can buy in the market today. Our list includes references exclusive from the prestigious Swiss luxury watchmaker, Omega.
Speedmaster Solar Impulse Chronograph GMT Titanium Dial
First released in 2008, Solar Impulse, with the official name HB-SIA, is named after an Omega-sponsored project whose objective is to build a solar-powered aircraft capable of flying long distances. This reference features a black carbon fiber dial with white luminous silver-tone hands, a small seconds sub-dial display, a central chronograph, and GMT hands. It is graced by a black bezel mounted on a 44.25mm titanium case, all of which are presented on an eye-catching orange rubber strap.
Speedmaster Co-Axial GMT Chronograph Numbered Edition Black Dial
This Speedmaster is also part of the HB-SIA lineup, referencing the project for which Omega provided the primary technology. With a black carbon fiber dial, luminous silver-tone hands, and 44.25 titanium case, this model is built for adventure-seekers. It is equipped with a 24-hour GMT function that allows you to keep track of two time zones at once. Instead of orange, this reference opted for a more classic and elegant look with black rubber straps.
Speedmaster Dark Side of The Moon Team Alinghi Chronograph Automatic Chronometer
This red-and-black reference is the result of the dynamic partnership between Omega and Alinghi, a Swiss yacht club’s international racing team. It looks sporty with a black dial and luminescent hands, a 44.25mm ceramic case, and a black rubber strap. But, perhaps the most impressive is the Calibre 1865 beating inside. This decorated manual-winding movement has a lightweight design, making it ideal for sailing crews.
Takeaway
Rubber, in all its various forms, is a durable material that is great at wicking sweat. It’s by far the easiest type of strap to clean and maintain. Most rubber straps provide a sporty, casual look to a watch and just fittingly so, being a sensible choice for activities that involve water or sweat.
It may not be the most versatile material, style-wise. But, with rubber-strapped models from the likes of Omega, you can get one that can carry itself well even on formal occasions, without you looking out of place. You can browse for more rubber watch options through the official Omega website or its authorized retailers.
