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The Artem Loop-Less Sailcloth Strap, the perfect pared-back strap
News
The Artem Loop-Less Sailcloth Strap, the perfect pared-back strap
Counterintuitive as it may seem, sailcloth straps aren’t actually made from the material used for sails. Just as ‘NATO’ straps have evolved from a very specific design to encompass a wide range of nylon straps, sailcloth has become shorthand for a canvas or synthetic fabric strap that is both hardwearing and rugged. Sailcloth straps are more formal than rubber and more versatile than leather, with an appeal of their own. This, along with the fact that they’re relatively uncommon, makes them a great match for a wide range of action-oriented, outdoorsy watches. Divers are the most obvious pairing, but they work just fine on pilots, chronographs and field watches.
While Artem offers a range of straps (and accessories), one of the most popular options on offer is their Loop-Less Sailcloth Strap. This sleek sailcloth takes inspiration from the strap that was offered on Omega’s Speedmaster Snoopy — built for a deployant, a high-speed, low-drag design with no keepers to slow you down.
For now, it’s offered in black with black, gray or white stitching and retails for USD133 (plus USD68 for the buckle). It’s a premium product, make no mistake, but compared to OEM offerings, the value proposition is strong.
And as for the sailcloth texture itself, well, I found it a pleasant surprise. It really does offer the best of both worlds: a sophisticated look that’s a nice change from leather, while still being more formal than the rubber of a NATO. The natural rubber backing and tough material also mean that it isn’t a strap I need to worry about getting dirty, wet or otherwise destroyed.
Learn more about Artem straps here, and follow them on Instagram @artem.straps.