Which watches to wear in summer? Focus on straps

Summer often rhymes with water activities, heat and sweating. Choose a watch Choosing the right bracelet for this season not only means prioritizing good water resistance, but also choosing a bracelet that's comfortable, durable, and easy to maintain when exposed to moisture. Here's a look at the best types of waterproof bracelets to wear in summer.

Metal bracelets: robust and elegant

Metal bracelets, whether they are stainless steel, in gold, in titanium or aluminum, remain THE preferred choice for summer; classic and versatile. Their durability is a major asset: they resist scratches and corrosion well, which makes them perfectly suited to aquatic activities such as swimming or light diving. Unlike leather, they do not retain water or odors, which guarantees lasting comfort even when sweating.

Plus, they work just as well with a dressy look as they do with a casual style, and will stand out even more on tanned skin, so look no further; they're the ally you need for the summer season. As iconic models, we recommend the Rolex Oyster Datejust in all gold, or the Santos of Cartier two-tone!

Rubber and silicone bracelets: flexibility and resistance

For sports and outdoor enthusiasts, natural rubber or silicone straps are particularly recommended. These materials offer excellent resistance to water, sweat, and heat, while remaining flexible and comfortable on the wrist.

Natural rubber, derived from the hevea tree, is more pleasant to the touch and less dusty than silicone, but also a little more expensive. These straps are often associated with diving or sports watches, thanks to their robustness and enhanced water resistance. For a model with a rubber strap, we recommend the Hublot's Big Bang.

Alternative materials: ceramics and carbon, the era of innovation

While rubber has established itself as a modern and sporty choice for watch straps, watchmaking continues to innovate by exploring other alternative materials. Among them, ceramic occupies a prominent place. Renowned for its scratch resistance and silky feel, ceramic has become a symbol of contemporary sophistication, as evidenced by one of the bestsellers of the Maison Chanel : there D12, available in black or white.

We also find carbon and other high-tech composites, which are appearing on the most exclusive watches, notably at Richard Mille or Audemars Piguet with the Royal Oak Offshore. These materials, derived from the aeronautics and automotive industries, make it possible to create ultra-light and durable housings, while offering unique textures and visual effects.

In short, these new-generation wristbands are perfect for summer: they resist humidity, perspiration, and temperature fluctuations, providing optimal comfort even on the hottest days. Their lightness and ability to stay cool on contact with the skin make them ideal allies for summer activities, whether at the beach, in the city, or during sports sessions.

Leather bracelets, classic but to be avoided

Certain watch straps should be avoided in summer, mainly due to their poor resistance to humidity, heat, and perspiration. Leather straps are the first to be affected. While they offer comfort and elegance in winter, they quickly become uncomfortable in the summer heat. Leather retains moisture, absorbs sweat, and takes time to dry, which promotes premature wear: it can crack, discolor, and even give off unpleasant odors.

Additionally, acidic perspiration accelerates the deterioration of leather, making it brittle and less attractive. Wearing a leather strap during water sports or under intense sunlight also exposes it to the risk of deformation and loss of color.

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