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.

“Great watch strap, probably the best I've seen. Great communication and service. Well recommended and will use again.”

— Peter, Sussex, UK

“I have just received my new Vanilla leather strap from Rich at Toshi straps. I have a couple of nice watches ,nothing very expensive but both straps have worn out. I started looking for a good quality replacement for one of watches (a Chris Ward Typhoon ) and was initially very reluctant to commit to spending £95-00 on a strap, but decided the watch deserved it. I placed the order and a day later received an email from Rich,thanking me for the order and confirming my specifications. I received the strap ten days ahead of schedule and the moment I fitted it to the watch my concerns regarding cost evaporated. The strap is stunning and beautifully made,It makes the watch look far more expensive than it actually is, the colour is simply gorgeous. If you have a watch and want to enhance it aesthetically I doubt there are better straps out there than those made by Rich. I now have to order a second strap for the other watch but I am confident that it will be money very well spent. My thanks and compliments to Rich at Toshi for a truly outstanding piece of work. I’m not easily impressed but Rich fulfilled his part of the deal ten days early and the strap is better in every way than I expected. I cannot recommend him enough. Outstanding product and equally outstanding customer service .”

— Kevin, Warwickshire, UK

“Photographs can hardly capture the wonderful texture and feel of the leather. Richard’s attention to detail extends well beyond his craftsmanship: first-class communication, delivery ahead of schedule and a thoughtful, handwritten letter accompanying the strap. A remarkable piece of craftsmanship, made with care, passion and character. Thank you, Richard, for creating something that means so much more than just a watch strap. Highly recommended.”

— Pavlos, Somerset, UK