This is my first post but have enjoyed learning from this forum for awhile now.
I am a proud owner of the new, all black faced, AT chrono in rose gold (3769). I wear the watch almost daily and have enjoyed it in every respect - it deserves to be seen/handled in person: it's really quite spectacular.
As you know, the AT uses the Cartier-licensed quick-change strap/bracelet mechanism. For most other pieces in the AT line, this gives the functionality of switching among the rubber strap, SS bracelet or the velcro diving strap, and, by extension, the fun of quickly changing the look of the timepiece.
I understand that even owners of other AT models (principally SS cases) have queried here on this forum and elsewhere whether there is a way to expand the range of strap options (e.g. leather, deployant clasps, etc.) and have read some suggestions that involve using the velcro strap as a base for such adventures (i.e., replace the velcro with the desired aftermarket strap, keeping in place the hardware that connects to the watch case).
I love the look, feel and style of the rose gold case, but it seems my strap/bracelet options are even more limited: the SS bracelet (which I hear is exceptionally well-made and comfortable) obviously will not match and the velcro strap incorporates SS on each end where it connects to the case.
I have three questions for the forum:
1) As a general matter does anyone have experience with or more information concerning expanding the strap options, whether via- modifying the velcro strap per the above or otherwise?
2) I would like to be able to use a deployant clasp -- I like the clasp Portugese Yacht Club -- and wonder if anyone has found a way to use one on a new AT.
2) Given my circumstances with the RG case, has anyone thought about how (1) and (2) might be accomplished without a SS mismatch?
Ultimately, I would love to be able to have two additional options: a leather strap , using either the current RG buckle or a RG deployant clasp that I would have to purchase separately; and a black rubber strap (either the standard AT strap or, say, the PT Yacht Club) but with a RG deployant clasp.
I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has experience with or has given thought to any of these matters.
Many thanks in advance,
David
