Ostrich Leg Leather Watch Straps

Ostrich leg and quill ostrich

Ostrich leather is mostly sold as two different skins. Body skin is known for the raised bumps left by its quills, while leg skin comes from the lower leg and is covered in scales. Every Cernir ostrich strap is cut from leg skin, so you will not find the dotted quill look here.

Our ostrich leg comes from Cape Karoo International in South Africa, which also finishes the skins. The finish is medium-gloss. Each strap is positioned and cut by hand at our Da Nang workshop, so the scale pattern differs from one strap to the next. Our guide to ostrich leather watch straps explains leg and quill skin in more detail.

Styles, colours and price

• Slim: 2.5mm at the lugs, tapering to 1.8mm at the tail, in golden brown and navy.
• Padded: a raised, cushioned centre, 4.5mm tapering to 2.0mm, in golden brown and navy. Visually, the padding brings the scales forward on a larger case.

Each strap in this collection is $145 and is made to order in 3–7 business days, then sent with free standard shipping, which takes an estimated further 7–10 business days to the US and 10–15 to other countries. On the product page you pick a standard lug width from 16mm to 24mm, each paired with a set buckle width (20mm lugs take a 16mm buckle, for example), and a length of S, M or L. For any other lug width, including half sizes, or your own lengths, use Customise this strap on the same page. The buckle is never wider than the lug. Our custom strap builder lists more ostrich leg colours, including dark green, chartreuse green and copper.

Each strap comes with two quick-release spring bars fitted and a stainless steel pin buckle in silver, yellow gold, rose gold or black. You can choose a butterfly clasp instead of the pin buckle, in even widths from 10mm to 22mm. Measure first with our lug width guide and strap size guide.

How it wears

In our straps, ostrich leg is flexible and comfortable from the first wear, and the scale pattern can make light marks less noticeable. We find it looks less formal than alligator, which is why we like it on field watches, chronographs and warm dials; for a formal dress watch we usually suggest our alligator watch straps. The strap is not waterproof. Wipe off moisture promptly and let it dry naturally at room temperature, and never soak it. Ask us before applying any cream, conditioner, polish or cleaner. Read our leather watch strap care guide for cleaning and drying.