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

14139 Views 15 Replies 7 Participants Last post by  Karkarov
Based on my search, this topic has been done here before but the threads seem to get off topic before there’s much of an answer or consensus.

I’m only interested in the functional difference between authentic alligator straps and their much cheaper embossed leather counterparts. Will gator last longer? Is it more wear or water resistant? What are the actual useful benefits of real gator? Etc.

Or or is it just a pricey luxury strap material that feels better and looks better (arguably I’m sure)?
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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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