The Rolex Submariner is the best-selling luxury sports watch in the world – and one of the most versatile when it comes to straps. With its lug width of 20mm, it fits practically any high-quality aftermarket strap. Here are the best options, sorted by style and intended use.
Why change the Submariner's factory strap?
The Submariner's Oyster bracelet is fantastic – no question. But anyone who wears their Sub every day knows the feeling: eventually, you want variety. A NATO strap for summer, a leather strap for the evening, a rubber strap for sports. The beauty of the Submariner: it looks good on almost everything.
Option 1: NATO Strap – The Classic
Ever since Sean Connery wore a Submariner on a pass-through strap in "Goldfinger," the Sub + NATO combination has been a classic. A NATO strap immediately makes the Submariner more casual and sporty. Muted colors such as gray, dark blue, or olive green work particularly well – they don't detract from the black Sub's presence but give it an individual touch.
Our favorite: The Horizon NATO 3.0 in Sky Gray – the neutral color matches everything, and the polished buckle harmonizes with the polished flanks of the Sub.
For whom: Summer, beach, Casual Friday, anyone who wants to wear their Sub more casually.
Option 2: Sailcloth Strap – Sporty-Elegant
Sailcloth straps are the modern alternative to NATO: two-piece, with quick-release spring bars and a rubber inner lining that repels sweat and water. They sit flatter than a NATO and therefore look a bit more elegant.
Our favorite: The Sailcloth strap in Olive Green – the contrasting stitching gives the strap character without being too loud.
For whom: Everyone who wants the sporty look of a NATO but prefers a flatter wearing feel.
Option 3: Leather Strap – The Sub becomes a Dress Watch
Yes, you can wear a Submariner on leather. And yes, it looks fantastic. A high-quality leather strap transforms the Sub from a sports watch into an elegant all-rounder that also works under a cuff. Important: The leather should be textured (grained calfskin is excellent) to match the robust character of the Sub.
Our favorite: The Hirsch × TWG Bologna in Olive Green – hand-stitched in Klagenfurt, with quick-release for tool-free changing.
For whom: Dinner, business, maximum versatility with just one watch.
Option 4: Rubber – Sport and Water
For everyone who actually uses their Sub as a dive watch or doesn't want metal or nylon on their wrist in summer: rubber straps offer maximum comfort in heat and water. They dry immediately, don't smell, and are extremely durable.
For whom: Sports, pool, beach, tropical climates.
The right lug width
The Rolex Submariner (all references since 2010) has a lug width of 20mm. Older models (Pre-Ceramic, e.g., 16610) also have 20mm. This means: All straps in our shop fit the Sub.
Not sure? Check our Size & Compatibility Guide.
Conclusion
The Submariner is one of the most rewarding watches for strap changes. My personal tip: Invest in two to three good straps and change them depending on the occasion. This keeps your enthusiasm for your watch fresh and gives you the feeling of owning multiple watches.
All straps for the Sub →
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.