Real alligator strap vs embossed cow leather - functional/durable comparison

There is a thread on the site where a member rated his Top Ten Alligator straps ever but sadly it is now missing his wonderful photos because of photobucket or whatever he used. Maybe the text from that thread might be helpful. He has owned some incredible ones.
Personally I have only owned one Hirsch faux Gator embossed and one IWC genuine alligator to compare. The difference is extraordinary. I only seek out top quality leather (Santoni, Casa Fagliano et al) and or the IWC Alligator from now on. The comfort and wearability is the deciding factor. I will see how worn out they get over time.
I am almost as equally happy to wear my watch on a quality NATO as well though so that gives me the yin yang effect.

I believe this is that thread that I referenced....https://www.watchuseek.com/f20/top-ten-alligator-straps-ive-owned-719451.html#/topics/719451

The IWC Alligator feels “natural” and it wears like a legitimate luxury product that you would expect. I highly considered a Hirsch Viscount which is one of their top line genuine Alligator straps but I found the IWC first at less than half the price of the Viscount. See if that thread helps also.
From what I recall the OP really liked some custom ones and one was lined in a beautiful red leather. I would also pay close attention to the quality of the lining as well as the outside appearance.
I only have one watch so I splurge on straps and gild the lily.

Barry H said:

Only you can know whether it's worth it. Straps are a consumable item and I, for one, am reluctant to spend >£50 on a strap. The difference between a nice embossed (ie Hirsch) and the genuine article is usually obvious side by side, though not always. If it's a black strap, I'll wager you wouldn't be able to tell. A Hirsch embossed (ie Duke or Grand Duke) are well made, look good and do the job. In my experience real croc/gator doesn't last any longer than embossed calf.

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I will agree the Hirsch Duke is an excellent value strap indeed!

Drucifer said:

I may just do the Duke...

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PM me your address if 20mm will fit and I will send you mine to "try".

Drucifer said:

Heljestrand said:

PM me your address if 20mm will fit and I will send you mine to "try".

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Awesome offer! I'd take you up on it, but I went ahead and ordered the Duke. I'm all set!

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No problem! Let us know how you find it.