Having dealt with the subject of the strap, it is now time to talk about the accessory connected to it, namely the buckle. In the past, less attention was paid to it; in fact, for everyone it was just the 'detail' to fasten the strap. The fact that it had the logo of the watch brand engraved on it or that it was made of gold was merely an added value. The buckle, on the other hand, is a primary accessory; it is one of those details that, when purchasing, must be observed carefully: for reasons of practicality and functionality, but above all for aesthetic reasons. Observe everything about the buckle in detail: whether it has a nice design; whether it has an attractive logo; whether it is of good consistency and comfortable to open and close; whether it is well-proportioned. Depending on the type of watch, there will be different buckle models: classic, sporty or designer. The research will have to be precise because an error of judgement at the design stage will later lead to such annoyances that the choices made will be called into question. I must emphasise, in fact, that every day people come into the shop complaining about the malfunctioning of the buckle because it releases easily, does not close properly or is uncomfortable on the wrist. Special attention must be paid to sports models, especially diving watches. The latter must be equipped with extremely functional, secure and practical buckles, as they will mostly be used in more 'rough' situations. Some buckles, especially those supporting rubber straps, are equipped with a convenient summer/winter adjustment system, this to give that small but essential comfort to the wrist, depending on the weather situation; it seems a triviality, but I assure you that it makes all the difference. The strongest element of a folding clasp is the part known as the compass, which is made up of two arched elements that are essential for proper closing and opening. The compass must be robust and well-designed to withstand the frequent use to which it is subjected. Unfortunately, although most compasses have been considerably reinforced and redesigned, they are still a weak point. In conclusion, regardless of the buckle that we will find on our watch and in view of the importance it represents in terms of safety for the object it supports, it is a good idea to check its various sealing pins, the compasses and the clasp, contacting your trusted workshop whenever you suspect that something is not working as it should, in order to avoid a possible and dangerous release.
