TROPIC bracelet 20mm rubber

The Tropic, a collector's standard

In the 1960s, instrumental diving needed an alternative to the steel bracelet: seawater-resistant, adjustable in one move, wearable over a wetsuit. The Tropic answered that brief and ended up fitted as standard on watches that became cult pieces — Tissot Seastar, LIP Nautic-Ski, Yema Yachtingraf, Lemania Regatta. The neo-retro wave has put it back on enthusiasts' wrists, much like the NATO.

The original Tropic pattern

Three details mark a faithful Tropic: the basket weave, the notched border and the embossed back. Our models carry all three. That is what separates a genuine Tropic-type strap from a smooth rubber given the name after the fact.

Classic or Sport: two levels of airflow

The Classic version is microperforated: closest to the original drawing, openly vintage. The Sport version punches three large holes per section for maximum airflow and a more technical profile. It closes on a 16mm buckle where the Classic stays at 18mm.

Why FKM and not silicone

Entry-level silicone clings to the skin, holds dust and loses shape. FKM is a fluoroelastomer: it keeps its colour and suppleness and takes seawater and sun creams without whitening. Waterproof and hypoallergenic, it is worn all year without any precaution.

Which watches in 20mm

20mm covers cases from 38 to 42mm: classic divers, regatta chronographs, sporting three-handers. Fitting is tool-free thanks to quick-release spring bars — the video guide shows the move.

Going further

For a wider case, the 22mm rubber watch strap carries the same colours in Tropic type. Every rubber material sits in the rubber watch straps category, and the 20mm rubber watch strap page gathers the full width. In the same vintage register but in fabric, see our 20mm NATO straps. The same colours in a wider fit sit in our Tropic straps in 22mm.