Portuguese Cork Watch Straps

January 08, 2013

When we watch nerds think of Portugal, admittedly, the first thing that comes to mind is IWCs line of nautical-inspired timepieces. But we recently stumbled upon another cool watch-related item from that seafaring Iberian nation, and this one actually has its origins therePortuguese cork watch straps. Thats right, cork.The Museu do Relogio (Watch Museum) in Alentejo, Portugal, about 300 kilometers from Lisbon, produces and sells these straps out of its gift shop, with proceeds benefiting the museum. The cork is sourced from within Portugal, where it is a native product - over 50% of the worlds cork comes from Portugal. Cork makes a great material for watch straps, given its hydrophobic and elastic qualities. It is also a good choice for the watch owner who doesnt want to wear petroleum- or animal-based materials. Plus it floats, though attached to any watch other than a Richard Mille RM027, we suspect its buoyancy characteristics would most likely be overwhelmed. The straps can be ordered in whatever width you specify, with a choice of two buckle styles. We were able to try one out and can attest to the straps comfort and quality. In fact, it wears much like a fine leather strap but is far lighter. Each strap is unique and has an interesting, rustic texture and stitching, and wearing it gave me the sudden urge to put on some fado music and pop a bottle of Porto.The straps sell for 22 with a standard steel buckle and for 32 for the wide, Panerai-style buckle, reasonable prices considering these are handmade straps and look like nothing else youll see on anyone elses wrist. There is no Web link for purchasing the straps, but you can send an e-mail to the Museu do Relogio for more information.Photos by Gishani for HODINKEE