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James Bond Wore His Submariner on a Leather Strap, And So Should You

Paul Altieri

Is there another luxury sports watch as recognizable, coveted, and versatile as the Rolex Submariner? We think not. And while the Submariner certainly looks fantastic on the customary Oyster bracelet, Rolex’s iconic diving watch pairs just as well with just about any type of strap. One of our favorite pairings is a classic black Submariner with a classic black leather strap. James Bond did it—enough said.

Leather Strap
Sean Connery & Ursula Andress in James Bond Dr. No (Credit: James Bond Dr. No)

Although James Bond is perhaps more famous for wearing a Submariner on a NATO-style nylon strap, in 1962’s Dr. No, 007 wears a Submariner ref. 6538 on a black crocodile leather strap. Dashing indeed!

Leather Strap
A close on the Submariner ref. 6538 on a stainless steel bracelet.

Ceramic Submariner With a Leather Strap

If you’re lucky enough to own a vintage Submariner ref. 6538 like the super spy himself, then hats off. If not, no problem, because pretty much any Submariner wears a leather strap well.

Leather Strap
James Bond wore his Submariner on a leather strap. (Credit: James Bond Dr. No)

Take the latest stainless steel Submariner ref. 116610LN with a black dial and black Cerachrom ceramic bezel for example. Switching out the rugged stainless steel Oyster bracelet for an elegant black leather band adds a touch of elegance to the famous Rolex sports watch. Plus, we simply love the combination an ultra modern high-tech material like Rolex’s Cerachrom ceramic with an old-school favorite material like leather.

Leather Strap
While most people may not afford the Submariner 6538, the 116610 is a great substitute.

Also, the white stitching on this particular Italian leather accessory complements the Submariner’s white details—from the bezel markings to the lume plots—perfectly. And last but not least, the stainless steel tang buckle on the leather band matches the Sub’s steel construction for a tight, well-coordinated look.

Aside from attractiveness, wearing the Submariner on a leather strap also lessens the watch’s weight significantly—ideal for your next mission.

One Rolex, Plenty of Variety

Remember, switching out the straps on your Rolex watch can give you a whole new style in an instant. One of the most stylish characters ever created, James Bond understood that well by wearing his watches on an assortment of bracelets and straps.

Leather Strap
The James Bond Submariner 6538, a collector’s watch, looks exceptional on leather. (Credit: James Bond Dr. No)

If you haven’t already, try wearing your Rolex watch on a different strap; you may just be pleasantly surprised. Milgauss on tan leather? Why not? GMT-Master II distressed brown leather? Yes please. Datejust on suede? Give it a go! One Rolex watch, infinite styles—what’s better than that?

Do you regularly change out your Rolex bracelets for different ones? What do you think of the Submariner ref. 116610LN on a black leather strap? Leave us a comment (or picture!) in the section below.

Paul Altieri
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