A little over a week ago, I bought a cool new IWC strap for my Ref 5022
Perpetual Calendar. I've had a couple Santoni straps over the 16+ years I've
had this watch - but I really do prefer the "OEM" IWC straps. There is
something about the "heterogeneous" dye and color, the matte/non-glossy and
the texture that is soft.
during the collector's meeting in Zurich, I opted for a "curved springbar"
strap which became standard on Portuguese models much later than 2006 when my
5022 was made. The problem with my choice is I did not notice or consider
that the original lug holes are near the edges of the lugs, leaving a
significant gap between the ends of the strap and the Watch bezel.
I rectified this by visiting a friendly, local jeweler who expertly measured
and marked where the holes should be drilled/burred and the result is
FANTASTIC. The original holes are still there, so I can choose other straight
bar straps - and the other holes are not visible.
top photo: shows gap with strap in original lug holes.
bottom: new holes. Perfect fit.
