Cheap Apple Watch straps tested: are Dux Duci's alternatives worth it?
There are countless different wristbands for the Apple Watch. Not only the rather expensive ones from Apple itself, but also from third-party suppliers. They are often cheaper, but the quality is not always convincing.
The Apple Watch is sold millions of times worldwide. There are countless wristbands in different colours and materials. But they are quite expensive. You can often get away cheaper with accessories from third-party providers. But how good is the cheap stuff? I looked at four bracelets from "Dux Ducis". These cost between 10 and 20 francs - about a third of the price of an Apple original.
The price is between 10 and 20 francs.
The unboxing experience: a bad start for "Dux Ducis"
The packaging does not convey high quality. Flabby plastic, the packaging tears immediately even when opened carefully. There are also only instructions in Chinese. A pity, but perhaps this is also a tactic by "Dux Ducis" to remain inexpensive. Another thing that strikes me. At "Dux Ducis" there are basically two bridge widths: The narrower one is suitable for all watches with a display width of up to 40 millimetres, the other from 41 millimetres and more.
Source: Davide Arizzoli
This also fits, but if you have a large watch, such as the Series 10 with a width of 46 millimetres, it looks a bit strange - even the "wider" bridge looks very narrow. In addition, the size is not always clearly labelled. Only a semi-adhesive sticker provides information. You therefore need to be careful that you buy the right one.
Nylon clones don't seem so bad - at first
First, I'll take a closer look at the nylon Mixture Pro for 11.20 francs. The Apple counterpart costs between 45 and 50 francs. The Mixture Pro impresses me almost across the board. It has a high-quality feel, is comfortable to wear and has a reliable and sturdy magnetic fastening.
Source: Davide Arizzoli
However, the cap scratches relatively quickly. After a few days, I can already see clear marks there. Apple is also a little more convincing in the details. The clasp from "Dux Ducis" has more play, which sometimes feels a little loose. The interfaces are also not completely flush.
Source: Davide ArizzolI
The same applies to the sports wristband. It costs 19.90 francs, less than half the price of Apple's, and is basically fine. However, the Velcro fastener will certainly not last forever - this is normal for Velcro fasteners and also applies to the original from Apple.
Source: Davide Arizzoli
After almost two weeks, it is clear that the workmanship may be quite good considering the low price, but the sustainability leaves a lot to be desired. Despite careful use, the fasteners are scratched, some surfaces are even chipped and the straps are discoloured. But at least the strap holds up.
Leather from "Dux Ducis" is not convincing
The leather strap doesn't convince me. It quickly shows pressure marks, is very stiff and can only be easily tied. The excess part presses against the arm and is not exactly pretty. It is also greasy and worn after just a few days. Apple has done a better job of this with its flush magnetic clasp, which is concealed behind the leather. Disadvantage: Apple still has the leather strap in its range, but it is no longer produced for the newer watches.
Source: Davide Arizzoli
Milanaise: Surprisingly hardly any nickel present
I am always sceptical about metal bracelets if they are too cheap. They often contain nickel. It is inexpensive, makes the metal harder and gives it a nice shine. The disadvantage: nickel can cause allergies and skin irritation. That's why I tested the Milanaise bracelet from Dux Ducis for its nickel content.
Source: Davide Arizzoli
The result is surprisingly positive, the test rod shows almost no reaction. Now the question arises: Are cheaper materials being used somewhere, or is Apple simply charging ridiculous prices here? Because: The "Dux Ducis" version costs around 20 francs, while the price of the original is almost 100 francs.
Conclusion: The devil is in the detail
Overall, it can be said that Apple works a little more carefully when connecting the bridge to the strap. This also applies to the clasps. However, the two fabric straps in particular are close to the original in terms of quality, but not particularly durable. When it comes to leather, I would go for the original if the budget allows.
What experiences have you had with third-party accessories? Tell us about it in the comments!
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I've been tinkering with digital networks ever since I found out how to activate both telephone channels on the ISDN card for greater bandwidth. As for the analogue variety, I've been doing that since I learned to talk. Though Winterthur is my adoptive home city, my heart still bleeds red and blue.
