Custom made Alligator strap for my 3227 [pics]

**kasra** · 05-06-2009 03:45 PM

I have had my Ingenieur for 5 months and the watch have certinaly lived up to its reputation. This is my second Inge.
The bracelet for this watch is as you all know a real statement in precision and comfort, and gives the watch a real professional "tooly" look. If one wants a more sporty look theres always the AMG soft strap.
I for one desired a more dressy look for those special occasions, something like the alligator for the Big Ingenieur. Sadly there is no such option from IWC Since the watch is phased the hopes for a dressy strap for the 3227 from the manufacturer got lost. So the hunt for a custom made strap began. I got in contact with Jacob Ramirez from "Jacob Straps" in Spain. He had previously made custom straps for the inge and knew what it was all about. He uses a technique with a metal reinforced core layer which he builds the strap around.

Being very picky I customized more or less everything with the strap, the alligator hide, stiching, holes and their distance, lengths, thickness and so on. I wanted a more rugged-thick look similar to the Big Pilot straps. Since the watch head is quite heavy this seemd like a good idea. Its tapered down from 5mm on the lug ends to 3mm over the clasp ends. The single folded IWC deployant needs some special attention to lenghts which you all know to sit right on the wrist.

The strap turned out great, it has a perfect firm fit. It sits very steady and is very sturdy in the connection to the watch. The hide was perfect, nothing unexpected there since I choosed the pattern myself.
So far The strap has worked out great and it has definitely lived up to my expectations, the craftmanship is great.
I feel it has given the watch another dimension of use if thats possible. Here are some pictures for you all to enjoy:

I felt the communication with Jacob was superb and he replied very quickly. I had a very pleasant experience dealing with him and the service and support was top notch!

Cheers - kasra