Metal Watch Straps

Metal straps for a smarter watch

A metal strap turns a smartwatch into something that looks like a traditional watch: right for work, a wedding or an evening out. Metal lasts a long time and does not mind a splash. It is heavier than silicone or fabric, though, and less comfortable in the gym, so many people keep a softer strap for exercise. The straps here are made to be compatible with Apple Watch, not by Apple.

The metal straps here

• Stainless steel link bracelets. The classic watch-link look, in finishes such as silver, gold, black, rose gold and a dark bronze. Some come with a small tool for taking links out.
• Bracelets with a folding clasp. Links with a clasp that folds shut under the wrist, including some with a two-colour or decorative finish.

For a metal look without the weight, a leather strap is lighter and softer; for the gym, see silicone watch straps.

Getting the size right

Apple sorts its watch sizes into two groups, and a strap made for one size fits every size in its group. Bands for 38mm, 40mm, 41mm and 42mm fit 38mm, 40mm, 41mm and 42mm cases. Bands for 44mm, 45mm, 46mm and 49mm fit 44mm, 45mm, 46mm and 49mm cases. Your watch's size is engraved on its back. There is one trap: on the old Series 3, 42mm was the larger of the two cases, so a 42mm Series 3 takes straps from the larger group.

Metal straps need extra care here. One stainless steel strap in this range lists a 42mm option for the Series 10, 11 and 12 separately from its 42mm option for other series, and asks you to read its sizing note before choosing. That is because the Series 10's 42mm is the smaller case and the Series 3's 42mm the larger. Check the series as well as the size.

Fitting a link strap to your wrist

A link bracelet arrives long and is shortened by taking links out. Take the same number from each side if you can, so the clasp sits under the middle of the wrist, and try it on before taking out more. A link strap cannot be adjusted between links, so if it falls between two lengths, choose the looser. Keep the links you take out, in case you need them later or pass the strap on.

To fit the strap to the watch itself, follow Apple's steps. Put the watch face down on a soft cloth, hold the band release button on the back, and slide the old strap across and out. Slide the new one in, with its writing facing you, until it clicks. Never force a strap into the slot, and do not wear the watch if the strap slides once it is in.

Questions people ask about metal watch straps

Will a metal strap irritate my skin?

Some people react to some metals. Read what a strap is made of, and stop wearing it if your skin reacts. Apple notes that bands it does not make may use different materials.

Can I swim with a metal strap?

Rinse it in fresh water after the sea or a pool and dry it, including between the links.

How long does delivery take?

Delivery is included in every price and tracked to your door. Each product page says when it usually arrives.

More to look at

• Leather watch straps
• Magnetic watch straps
• Nylon watch straps
• All straps compatible with Apple Watch
• Watch cases and bumpers
• Guide: Watch straps: sizes, materials and fitting