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Making a Shell Cordovan Watch Strap

Watch Strap Cut out
Cut-out shows the black shell cordovan exterior, French calfskin lining, anti-stretch core, and buckle.

Cut-out shows the Japanese Shell Cordovan exterior, French calfskin lining, and anti-stretch core.

watch strap skive

Anti-stretch fabric has been glued to the body and the ends have been skived.

Watch Strap Glued

Body, core, and lining all joined.

Watch Strap Trimmed

Trimmed to final size.

Watch Strap Punched

Stitching holes have been punched, as well as holes for the buckle.

Watch Strap Saddle Stitching

Saddle Stitching

Watch Strap Finished Saddle Stitching

Finished Saddle Stitching

Watch Strap Creasing

Inner crease line laid down

Watch Strap Ironing

Ironing the first layer of paint

Watch Strap Edge Paint

Laying down the second layer of paint after ironing and sanding.

Watch Strap Keepers

Skiving the keeper ends to ready for joining.

Watch Strap Almost Ready

A bit more painting and sanding, and it will be ready to assemble.

Watch Strap Finished

Almost finishd. I'll add some paint to the buckle holes, wax and buff the edges, and brush the cordovan.