RZE Fan Girl

It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of RZE. Like most who get the chance to handle one  instantly fall in love with their modern edgy and robust designs. I may not look at first glance much of an adventurer, but I’m an avid walker and nature lover and most importantly a Mum of two small children, which means I’m built for adventure!

The Origin Story

Let’s rewind to a few months ago, when as any watch obsessed person does, spends an unhealthy amount of time thinking about white dialed ‘sports’ watches, goes to the hive mind of Instagram to ask what everyone’s favorite option is. This is where my friend’s Corey (@EnthusedDad) and our very own Vincent (@Mainspring.watch) come up trumps and suggest RZE’s ‘Resolute Pro’. White enamel dial, applied indices, insanely good SUPERLUMINOVA lume, UltraHex titanium with anti scratch coating, 100 meters of water resistance, sapphire crystal with anti reflective coating, quick release and on-the-fly micro-adjustment on the bracelet, Miyota 90S5 automatic movement and anti shock Viton gasket, with real focus on sustainability all for under $700?! Well needless to say I fell hard for this absolute unicorn of a watch.

It accompanied me on my month-long trip to Sicily where it got more wrist time than any other watch I took. I just loved its versatility. A day at the beach or a trip up a volcano. My RZE had it covered with ease and not a single scratch to show for even to this day.

Waiting For Straps

But let’s fast forward to the present, I’m sipping a mug of lukewarm coffee (thanks kids) impatiently awaiting a new delivery from RZE. They have seen how truly versatile their watches are and in doing so had the brilliant idea to make their own watch straps fit for adventure and as always not sacrificing on style. This is the part where I come in. Any of you following me on Instagram or YouTube (love you) will know I’m a bit of a style queen (self proclaimed). So I wanted to compile a shoot for the new straps to illustrate how these highly practical yet stylish straps will look and showcase their versatility, which is something I’m extremely passionate about.

After what feels like a century (slight exaggeration) I receive four SeaQual canvas straps in brilliantly neutral tones. Navy, black, khaki and gray. All with deliciously light titanium buckles and their signature R logo. As fast as you could say ‘RZE’ I had punched two extra holes (I have a measly 13.5cm wrist) in each of the straps and got to work inspecting each one. These vegan straps are “Crafted in Germany from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester, vegan leather, and UltraHex™ titanium hardware” and I have to say although a little stiff at the beginning, they are extremely comfortable and I could instantly tell are of amazing quality. The great thing about a canvas strap is they are brilliant for all weather and seasons. I’m a huge fan of a rubber strap for summer, but personally retire the look when autumn comes around. So a big plus from that point of view. You can have your choice of the ultra hex titanium or DLC buckle too depending on your preference and watch collection, which is a nice touch. The straps retail at $69, which is a very fair price considering the quality and attention to detail on these. 

FASHION MONTAGE TIME!

These straps were a breeze to style. RZE is a brand that is effortlessly cool and casual and I wanted to reflect that in this series. 

Navy is the way! The navy strap was crying out for a festival of deep blues. Styled here with jeans, a bold Shacket (yes that’s a thing) and Converse sneaks, which is the perfect way to show off the navy blue option.

Khaki? Who me? I had fun styling the Khaki strap, playing with that canvas texture by mixing with a classic Levi’s denim jacket and a matching khaki cashmere scarf.  Loving all those autumnal vibes with a touch of high fashion wearing a vintage Oscar De La Renta skirt and a well loved pair of Todd’s Chelsea boots. They combine to create the sense of ‘I’m not trying to..I am just this freaking awesome’ look of the Khaki.

Black like my soul. An all black look with the white enamel dial as the star is such a winner. Johnny Cash eat your heart out! Sometimes less is more when it comes to styling. A simple black T-shirt and jeans is more than enough to pair with the Black canvas strap!

Pop that gray! Do you know how happy I am that autumn is almost here? Last but not least I’ve gone for the tried and tested duo of gray and pink. Having fun yet again with the contrasting textures of canvas and this time knitted wool. Gray is a shade that looks great with anything, so I’m totally justified in wearing a bright pop of color. Why not wear yours with a fun jumper this Autumn/Winter?

The Verdict

You don’t have to be an eco warrior to appreciate these gorgeous canvas straps, but knowing they are made in a sustainable way definitely adds to their charm. RZE absolutely nailed the utilitarian look and feel of the ‘SeaQual’ straps, with their neutral colors that easily fit into anyone’s wardrobe. I would like to see a yellow strap to match their awesome yellow watches and it just feels like their signature color. The quality of the strap is absolutely top notch, a fair price retailing at $69 and like their watches ‘built of adventure’. Great job RZE!

If you’re interested in grabbing an awesome strap for yourself, head to the RZE website to find out more!