Artem Introduces Loop-Less Sailcloth Watch Straps With Premium Hybrid Construction

The watch strap market continues to attract innovative brands pushing the boundaries of design and materials. Artem, a strap maker founded in 2019 and based in Adelaide, Australia, has gained attention with its Loop-Less™ Sailcloth collection — a premium strap line that combines synthetic sailcloth with a hybrid leather-and-rubber underside for enhanced comfort and durability.

The Loop-Less Design Philosophy

According to aBlogtoWatch, which featured the collection in September 2024, the defining characteristic of Artem's Loop-Less™ design is the elimination of traditional keeper loops. Instead of the standard sliding keeper that holds excess strap length in place, the Artem strap tucks the tail end under the deployant clasp, resulting in a cleaner, more streamlined appearance on the wrist.

This design approach requires the use of a deployant clasp rather than a standard tang buckle. The straps are compatible with Artem's own deployant clasps as well as Omega OEM clasps, making them a practical upgrade option for Omega Seamaster and Speedmaster owners seeking a sailcloth alternative.

Hybrid Material Construction

The Loop-Less™ Sailcloth straps feature a multi-layer construction designed to balance aesthetics, comfort, and longevity:

• Top Layer: Embossed synthetic sailcloth material with a durable silicone strip across the pin holes to prevent fraying and wear
• Underside: A combination of leather and natural rubber, providing both the soft feel of leather against the skin and the moisture resistance of rubber
• Padding: Extra padding near the watch case end for a comfortable, tapered profile

The strap thickness tapers from 5.4mm at the case end down to 2.2mm at the clasp end. Width also tapers according to lug size: 18mm straps narrow to 16mm, 19/20/21mm straps narrow to 18mm, and 22mm straps narrow to 20mm.

Extensive Customization Options

The availability of fat bar spring bars is particularly noteworthy, as it accommodates Seiko diver watches that use wider spring bars — a detail that demonstrates Artem's understanding of the enthusiast market.

Sailcloth vs. Leather vs. Rubber: Material Comparison

The sailcloth strap occupies a unique position in the watch strap hierarchy. As noted by strap industry experts, sailcloth offers several advantages over pure leather or rubber alternatives:

• Compared to leather: Sailcloth is more water-resistant and durable in wet conditions, though it may not develop the same patina over time
• Compared to rubber: Sailcloth provides a more refined, dressy appearance while still offering reasonable water resistance
• Hybrid advantage: Artem's leather-and-rubber underside combines the best properties of both materials

The $133 price point positions Artem in the premium segment of the aftermarket strap market, competing with brands like Barton, Crown & Buckle, and Delugs. The two-year warranty and free worldwide express shipping for first-time orders add value to the offering.

FAQ

What watches are compatible with Artem Loop-Less™ straps?
The straps are designed for any watch with standard lug widths from 18mm to 22mm. They are specifically optimized for use with deployant clasps, including Artem's own clasps and Omega OEM clasps.

Can I use these straps with a regular tang buckle?
No. The Loop-Less™ design is engineered specifically for deployant clasps. The tail-tuck mechanism requires a deployant clasp to function properly.

How does the hybrid underside compare to full rubber straps?
The leather-and-rubber hybrid underside provides a softer, more comfortable feel against the skin compared to full rubber, while still offering moisture resistance that pure leather straps lack. This makes the straps suitable for both casual and semi-formal wear.

For more strap recommendations, see our complete guide to watch strap materials or explore our watch collecting tips.

Source: aBlogtoWatch, September 2024