Care Guide
Leather Care
Leather is a natural fibre — the skin of an animal — that requires periodic maintenance to remain supple, comfortable, and long-lasting. With the right care, your bespoke strap will age beautifully for years to come.
When to Act
When your strap becomes visibly lighter in colour or is no longer as flexible as before, the internal fibres are dry and at risk of tearing or splitting. Exposure to the elements, skin contact, and sweat absorption deplete the leather's natural oils over time.
Step-by-Step Application
Inspect the Leather
Check if your strap has become lighter in colour or less flexible than usual. These are the first signs that the internal fibres are drying out and need attention.
Apply a Small Amount of Balm
Use a high-quality neutral natural leather balm. Place a tiny amount onto your fingertip and gently rub it onto the leather strap lining first, then the upper. Less is more — allow it to soak in fully before applying more.
Massage In & Allow to Absorb
Work the balm in gently using small circular motions. The leather should feel noticeably more supple and malleable after each application. Repeat once or twice if the strap is particularly dry.
Additional Care Notes
After Water or Sweat Exposure
If the leather becomes saturated with water or sweat, immediately remove the strap and allow it to air dry naturally. Once fully dry, replenish with leather balm before wearing again.
Never Dry in Direct Sunlight
Always air dry in the shade. Direct sunlight will cause the leather to harden, crack, and fade prematurely.
Allow Full Absorption
After applying balm, let the strap rest for at least 30 minutes before wearing. This allows the oils to fully penetrate the fibres.
Our Commitment to Natural Leather
Lombard Bespoke uses vegetable-tanned bovine leather in all strap linings. When your strap has served its time, it returns to the earth chemical-free.
A Natural Material, Naturally Cared For
At Lombard Bespoke, we use naturally tanned, vegetable-tanned bovine leather in all of our watch strap linings — and in the uppers for our calf strap options — because we value product longevity and environmentally responsible practices.
When your strap has done its time for you, you can dispose of it with peace of mind knowing that it is returning to the earth, chemical free.
Ready to commission your own piece?
Commission a Strap