Appreciation for the original Black CB Strap

[JulesK]

The original S0 AW I purchased on launch was the SS Black CB model, with the "Ecco" leather strap. Because the summers here feature oppressive heat and humidity, I soon switched to a sport band and then a link bracelet, and never really went back to the CB strap. Fast forward 18 months and now have the S2 SS AW with the Saddle Brown CB strap, but to change it up, I put on the black strap for the first time in about year. Wow, as much grief as that original CB strap received, it is far superior in design and feel than the current model (which isn't bad, just overpriced). I've always thought that the current CB strap was trying too much to be a traditional leather strap, whereas the original model (no visible stitching) fits perfectly with the very modern styling of the AW. Too bad I didn't buy an extra or two, or a brown one when, before they were discontinued. If anyone knows of a source, I'd love to know.

As much as people swoon over the Hermes single tour strap, I prefer the original CB strap over that, with the current CB strap in (distant) third place.

 

[Thai]

You are in the minority...a minority of ONE.

 

[Mac2me]

Well I guess make that Two. I absolutely love my original classic black. I like that it is simple modern clean design. I never liked the "embossed" ridged edge version 2. IMO I thought it looked cheap, and while the new one with stitching is an improvement IMO over version 2, I think it looks like a handful of other bands out there. So maybe it's a Club of 2, but am still really happy with it on my wrist and with its looks. With cooler weather here I've been wearing it more often and just love the weight and overall feel of it. As to the OP's request about version 1 band availability, can't say I've ever seen any. Only chance I would think would be through resale sites like eBay etc.