• Master
    5 Oct 2018, 3:22 p.m.

    Hi Forum Friends,

    I dared to ask, a while ago, if someone could source an extra short Big Pilot buffalo strap, like on the original 5002.
    Thanks to a great friend I found one, see the picture below: a true upgrade in my opinion!

    Best regards,

    Bob

    /site_media/ckeditor_images/1b8aa58422eee2b477ce8380e3cb0c02.jpg

    /site_media/ckeditor_images/c661c724f971aefbbaed5d0211091b4c.jpg

    /site_media/ckeditor_images/3bb8f1d8c5d4286318ef456227a39c04.jpg

    /site_media/ckeditor_images/1d5d572c54e9343667abb6bac79b6d45.jpg

    /site_media/ckeditor_images/99ce01e9cf7a93691e7d592d6aaf6e73.jpg

  • Graduate
    5 Oct 2018, 6:36 p.m.

    Looks excellent!

    How was the experience of taking the stock strap off? It looks very rigid and doesnt compress much so I imagine removing it would be pretty difficult. For that reason alone, I still havent switched over to the buffalo strap yet. Mine is still brand new in box, just waiting.

    The buffalo strap looks amazing, however it is much more delicate than the stock strap. It absorbs sweat like crazy and you should keep an eye on the lining on the sides of the strap if it ever gets significantly damp, I've seen it peel off on many straps. Dont worry though, the strap still looks amazing with raw exposed sides if you decide to just peel off the sealant. 

    The stock strap is really growing on me though, it's developing some nice patina and is very water/sweat resistant for what it is. I still can't wait to switch over to the buffalo once I've really broken in the default calfskin strap.

  • Master
    6 Oct 2018, 12:27 p.m.

    Hi,

    I consider myself experienced enough with bracelets and straps, always using a simple Bergeon spring bar tool, but indeed this one was not the easiest. The strap-ends are thick and sturdy... but they can be compressed ;-)

    I wasn't aware that the Buffalo is more delicate, but I live in a country with a sea-climate so not too hot. Finally, I agree that the stock Calf strap is very nice and not as light brown as some pictures suggest, but at the end the Buffallo wins!

    Kind regards,

    Bob

  • Connoisseur
    7 Oct 2018, 2:32 p.m.

    Looks fantastic Bob :)...congratulations.
    The Safari is such a special piece.
    Jonathan

  • Master
    8 Oct 2018, 7:09 a.m.

    Great look on that watch Bob, nice job!

  • Master
    8 Oct 2018, 12:52 p.m.

    That looks terrific, Bob!  I think the buffalo is the perfect strap for that watch.

  • Master
    9 Oct 2018, 4 a.m.

    Great combo Bob!  thanks for sharing.