Why Pilots Wore Leather Straps in WWII (And Why They're Still Iconic Today)

by Luxury Watch Straps

From cockpits to collectors' wrists—the legacy of the leather strap lives on.

Picture it: you're 20,000 feet in the air, the wind howling, the cold biting through every seam, and the enemy possibly just a blip on the horizon. You're a WWII pilot—your cockpit is a chaotic blend of noise, nerves and necessity. And on your wrist? A rugged watch, held in place by a long, sturdy leather strap.

But why leather? Why those straps? And what’s so enduring about them that they’re still beloved by aviation enthusiasts and watch aficionados alike?

Let’s take off into a bit of wartime wristwear history...

1. The Practical Power of Leather

First things first: WWII pilots didn’t wear leather straps for style. Function came first, and leather was the unsung hero of utility.

Leather was strong, readily available, and—most importantly—insulated. Cockpits at high altitudes were freezing, especially in unpressurised aircraft. Pilots needed a strap that wouldn’t turn into an icy metal shackle or snap under pressure. Leather offered both warmth and durability in brutal flying conditions.

Standard straps didn’t cut it. So, pilots were often issued longer leather straps they could wear over their thick flight jackets or gloves. These oversized straps allowed them to check the time or synchronise missions without faffing about with zips and sleeves. Clever, right?

2. Enter the B-Uhr: A Watch Built for the Skies

The watches of WWII pilots weren’t just tough—they were designed with precision and clarity in mind. The most iconic of these? The Beobachtungsuhren, or B-Uhr for short.

These “observation watches” were massive by today’s standards—often 55mm in diameter. They featured high-contrast dials, luminous hands, and large crowns that could be adjusted with gloved hands. Paired with long riveted leather straps, they were worn on the outside of flight suits for quick, visible access.

Each B-Uhr had to meet strict specs, including hacking seconds (so pilots could sync watches to the second). Countries like Germany, Britain and the US all had their own versions, but leather straps were the common denominator.

3. Rivets, Rings, and Reliability

You’ll often notice WWII-style leather straps had rivets near the lugs. Those weren’t just decorative—rivets helped secure the strap to the watch under extreme stress. In case a spring bar failed (which could be catastrophic mid-flight), the rivets gave extra security.

Double-layered or bund-style straps were also popular. These had an extra leather pad beneath the watch case, acting as a barrier between cold metal and the skin—crucial at high altitudes. They also offered shock protection, a welcome feature when bouncing around a turbulent sky.

In short, leather wasn’t just about keeping the watch on the wrist. It was about keeping the pilot in control.

4. From Cockpits to Culture: Why Leather Endures

The war ended, but the image of the leather-strapped pilot watch endured. Why?

Because these watches, and the straps they came with, were tools of purpose and bravery. They weren’t fashion statements—they were lifelines. That gave them an authenticity modern designs still try to capture.

Fast forward to today and you’ll find countless homages to WWII pilot watches, all proudly boasting vintage leather straps. That same warm tone of aged brown, the same contrast stitching, the same riveted designs.

And the appeal? Timeless. A good leather strap has texture, character, and just enough rugged charm to say: “I could fly a Spitfire... if I had to.”

5. The Leather Legacy in Modern Watch Culture

Today’s watch lovers are still drawn to leather for many of the same reasons:

  • Comfort: Leather warms to the skin, wears in over time, and becomes uniquely yours.

  • Style: A vintage pilot watch on a distressed brown leather strap? Effortless cool.

  • Heritage: Wearing a leather strap isn’t just a nod to history—it’s a tribute to those who lived it.

Watch brands like IWC, Laco, Hamilton and Stowa continue to produce aviation-style watches inspired by WWII, and leather straps remain a key part of that DNA. Even contemporary smartwatches offer leather options for those craving a more “classic” look.

And the bund strap? Still a favourite among collectors and reenactors alike—not just for its look, but for its story.

So, Why Do Leather Straps Still Matter?

Because leather tells a story.

Each scuff, crease, and fade speaks of time worn and time passed. Unlike rubber or steel, which often look the same forever, leather ages. It develops character. Just like the brave men who once wore it, leather doesn’t pretend to be perfect—it’s proud to be worn in, not worn out.

For the WWII pilot, a leather strap was a practical choice. For today’s wearer, it’s a connection—to history, to style, and to a time when watches weren’t just accessories, but essential instruments of survival.

Final Thoughts (Before We Land)

So next time you buckle a leather strap onto your wrist, remember: it’s more than just something to keep your watch in place.

It’s a piece of history. A throwback to the sky-scorching days of Spitfires and Lancasters. A nod to the men who soared through war-torn clouds with nothing but courage, canvas, and a ticking clock.

And whether you’re desk-bound or daydreaming at 30,000 feet, one thing’s certain—leather will never go out of style.

Ready to channel your inner pilot?
Browse our collection of vintage-inspired leather straps, bund pads and aviation-style accessories—perfect for taking your wrist game to new heights.

Fly bold. Strap smart.

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