BP 5002 Strap - Nice & Thick Again

Aloha all!

Reading Nad’s strap post prompted me to make this post.

Last year I purchased a replacement BP 5002 strap from an AD for my BP 5004 and I was disappointed at the comparatively flimsy “feel” it had to it. Since it was the second one I ordered (I rejected the first one) I decided to just buy it.

Last week I purchased a much “beefier” replacement BP 5002 strap from the IWC Boutique.

I think that the beefier feel is attributable to two factors: 1) the earlier replacement strap (i.e., the one with the push pins in it) did not have a groove impressed into the edges of the strap. These grooves probably provide a tiny but perceptible bit of resistance to the flexing of the strap; and 2) the side photo I took clearly shows that the newer strap is thicker.

These small differences are difficult to capture in pictures with my pocket point-and-shoot camera but are obvious in real life. The texture and finish of the two straps are also quite different.

I realize that not everyone prefers a thicker strap but I was looking for a strap more like the original BP 5002 strap and I’m pleased with my new acquisition.

FYI:

Tracy (Honolulu)

[](s3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/-Kokoro-/?action=view&current=5002strap1.jpg)

[](s3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/-Kokoro-/?action=view&current=5002strap2.jpg)

[](s3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/-Kokoro-/?action=view&current=5002strap3.jpg)

Good Kokoro! >>>

My original strap still has years of wear in it, as I take very good care of things. Too bad IWC did not order a greater supply of replacement straps back in 2002. Still, this new one you have looks nice. I am curious if this new strap has a new Part Nr?

Cheers from Isobars.

Tracy, thanks for posting. It's obvious now >>>

....that one must be careful with the acquisition of a new BP buffalo, given the two qualities that are available.

I am sure there is an 'old school' strap somewhere out there for me, LOL!!

Good info Tracy...thanks. nt

Indeed quite a difference >>

maybe they have changed suppliers?

I agree the BP needs a thick strap.

Good Kokoro! >>>

I don't know if the part number changed. I'm just assuming that the vendor manufacturing the strap changed. The difference between the two straps is like night and day.

Tracy (Honolulu)

I like the texture of the previous one more. nt

But thanks for the great explanation! nt

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Ups, sorry. I said:

Interesting for a prospective BP owner, thanks!

Thanks for showing the diferences.nt