Welcome to Toshi Straps. Every strap I make is individually cut, stitched and finished with simple hand tools — no machines, no shortcuts, and no outsourcing. Just careful workmanship, the finest leather from around the world and a commitment to making a strap that reflects true craft.

I’ve been making leather watch straps for almost 20 years now, crafting pieces for Panerai, Rolex, Breitling, Tudor and many others — but every commission is personal. Your strap will be made for you with the same care and attention to detail I’ve had since the beginning.

If you’re new to my work, the FAQ page is a good place to begin. And if you’d like advice or have a question, please get in touch.

Thank you for stopping by — it means a lot.

black dog with ball in mouth against an outside setting

Meet Dave, the real boss here

Although I’ve always worked alone since starting Toshi Straps, six years ago I decided it was time to get some help. The result is Dave — a working cocker spaniel who came into my life during lockdown, and the real boss at Toshi Straps HQ.

Most mornings he comes out to the workshop with me and settles in while I get on with the day’s work. We’ve developed a routine: he keeps an eye on things, and I promise him a decent walk at lunchtime.

Aside from food, which he can’t get enough of, his favourite thing is his bouncy ball. He takes it everywhere, and he’s been known to interrupt my concentration by throwing it at me if I'm working too hard — his way of telling me I need a break.

There’s no doubt he sees himself as the one in charge, but I don’t mind. It’s good having him around — and he’s cheap, happy to supervise me all day for a daily Dentastix.

What my customers say...

I'm incredibly grateful for the customers who choose a handmade strap from my workshop. Here are a few recent comments from people who’ve worn their straps out in the world. You can read more on my testimonials page.

“I received my Toshi strap from Rich today here in Estonia, and I have to say the whole experience was fantastic from start to finish. What stood out to me most was the personal service. In a world where just about everything is mass-produced and automated, it was refreshing to get actual emails from Rich himself. You can picture the guy in his workshop making these straps one at a time, and that connection to the person behind the product really matters. The quality is obvious the second you put it on your wrist. It's hard to explain until you experience it yourself, but it simply feels better than the mass-produced straps I've owned in the past. The leather feels great against the skin, the craftsmanship is excellent, and there's a substance and character to it that's hard to find these days. A great strap says something about you, and it's worth investing in quality. Toshi delivers that quality, and Rich makes the entire process enjoyable from start to finish. This definitely won't be my last Toshi strap.”

— Carl, Rapla County, Estonia

“This is the third watch strap I have purchased from toshi-straps. Each one has been excellent quality and beautifully made. Rich provides a first class service.”

— Hazel, Scottish Borders, UK

“Impeccable service and craftsmanship to match, will be ordering again. Order was fulfilled ahead of schedule also! Thanks! ”

— Dan, South Yorkshire, UK