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.

Some of my personal favourites

I have around 100 leathers currently available to choose from, each with its own unique character, but here are a few of the ones I wear myself most often. If you want to see all that is available, you can browse the full collection in the store.

Every strap is made to order. You choose the leather, stitching colour, width, length & buckle you want. I make your strap to your exact specifications. Every leather in the store is available for your watch. If you’re buying a strap as a gift and don’t know the size, I offer gift cards too.

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.

“The strap arrived today and I’m really happy. As soon as I took it out of the packet I thought the colour was great. A deep red/purple, Merlot is indeed fitting. After appreciating the looks I had a good sniff. The smell of a good leather is up there with coffee and freshly mown grass. The strap is masculine and oozes quality. Great work! I’m going to Singapore and Malaysia next year and will be watch hunting. A couple of PAMs are on my list and if I get one I’ll be back to you for sure. I feel like I got lucky. Someone mentioned your name on Reddit and I did a Google, then pulled the trigger. I have zero regrets! Thanks again, your talents are much appreciated.”

— Dean, West Sussex, UK

“This has been a wonderful experience! - Richard has been extremely helpful and replied to all my emails swiftly. The order was completed in about half the time he initially suggested,which was a welcome surprise. The strap is everything I wanted and perhaps more, it’s beautifully made and the quality and craftsmanship is clear to see. Now I have discovered Toshi I am sure more straps will follow.”

— Peter, Hertfordshire, UK

“Just ordered my fifth strap they have all been magnificent. The quality of work is beyond belief A+. Rich shows what true craftsmanship really means. The communication and shipping are excellent. I will order from again! ”

— Michael, Georgia, USA

The latest from my workshop. Some of my most recent blog posts....

View all
  • Merlot Kudu Panerai Strap Review — A Rare Leather and a Happy Customer

    Merlot Kudu Panerai Strap Review — A Rare Leath...

    A first‑time Panerai owner shares his experience with a rare Merlot Kudu strap — deep colour, rich character, and craftsmanship that left a lasting impression. A beautiful testimonial for a...

    Merlot Kudu Panerai Strap Review — A Rare Leath...

    A first‑time Panerai owner shares his experience with a rare Merlot Kudu strap — deep colour, rich character, and craftsmanship that left a lasting impression. A beautiful testimonial for a...

  • African Kudu Watch Strap in the Greek Sun — A Customer Testimonial

    African Kudu Watch Strap in the Greek Sun — A C...

    Steven has been a long‑standing customer of mine, and he recently got in touch about a new strap for his Panerai 1628. We quickly settled on an African Kudu watch...

    African Kudu Watch Strap in the Greek Sun — A C...

    Steven has been a long‑standing customer of mine, and he recently got in touch about a new strap for his Panerai 1628. We quickly settled on an African Kudu watch...

  • New website

    New website

    This new website marks a major moment for Toshi Straps. It’s the result of months of work, countless late nights, and nearly twenty years of learning. I’m proud to finally...

    New website

    This new website marks a major moment for Toshi Straps. It’s the result of months of work, countless late nights, and nearly twenty years of learning. I’m proud to finally...

  • Bruiser - in the spotlight

    Bruiser - in the spotlight

    Bruiser leather takes the spotlight this month. A rugged steer hide with rich texture, warm brown tone, and exceptional durability — handmade for those who prefer a strap with real...

    Bruiser - in the spotlight

    Bruiser leather takes the spotlight this month. A rugged steer hide with rich texture, warm brown tone, and exceptional durability — handmade for those who prefer a strap with real...

1 4
View all