FKM rubber watch strap 20mm black Tropic type

In the 1950s, the first diving watches reached the wrists of combat swimmers, with no underwater electronics: Rolex Submariner, Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, Omega Seamaster 300, then on steel. A strap resistant to seawater, adjustable and wearable over a wetsuit was needed. Tropic answered in the 1960s.

FKM rubber, a premium elastomer

The FKM here is a fluoroelastomer built for the sea. Immune to salt, UV and temperature swings, hypoallergenic, it blends comfort and strength without holding dust, unlike silicone.

A collector's standard, like the NATO

Like the NATO, the Tropic has entered horological heritage. Prized by collectors, it adorned now-cult watches: Tissot Seastar, LIP Nautic-Ski or Yema Yachtingraf. We respect every code: woven surface, notched border, period embossed back.

The black in the Tropic range

Black pairs with every watch, from a dress chronograph to the most technical diver.

FKM or silicone: what changes on the wrist

Many straps sold as “rubber” are in fact low-grade silicone: it attracts dust, clings to the skin and loses shape within months. FKM keeps its structure and its colour. The difference shows from the first season.

Technical specifications

• Material: microperforated FKM rubber, Tropic strap pattern
• Water resistance: waterproof, dive-ready
• Lug width: 20mm
• Thickness: 2.5mm
• Attachment: quick-release, no tool
• Buckle: satin stainless steel, 2 keepers

In video: flat, in the water and kitesurfing

Our own footage: the FKM rubber strap filmed flat, underwater, then put to the test kitesurfing.

Complete your watch strap collection

In the same marine spirit, this 20mm pairs with the Hirsch Pure rubber watch strap for men, also available in 20mm. For a sportier stitched finish, see the waterproof Arezzo Racing rubber watch strap. Diving fans can move on to our NATO watch straps in 20mm. To compare materials and colours, browse our full collection of rubber watch straps.