Open-Ended Lizard Strap for a 1938 Omega Cal. 23.4
This gold Omega from 1938, a cal. 23.4 watch, has fixed bars between the lugs instead of removable spring bars. A normal strap has a closed, stitched loop at the case end, so it cannot be threaded onto a bar that will not come out. An open-ended strap for a 1938 Omega cal. 23.4 leaves that end open so it can be fitted around the fixed bar.
This strap went to an order from New Jersey for a gold Omega from 1938.
The build
| Strap style | Open-ended (for fixed bars) |
|---|---|
| Watch | Vintage Omega, 1938, gold case, cal. 23.4 |
| Leather | Black lizard |
| Strap length | 70/115mm (2.76/4.53 in) |
| Buckle | Classic, gold, 16mm (0.63 in) |
Why these choices
The open end is the reason this order exists. On a fixed-bar watch, the alternatives are a pass-through NATO-style strap, which lifts the case off the wrist and adds bulk under a small dress watch, or having the bars cut out, which no one should do to an original 1938 case. An open-ended strap keeps the watch untouched and sits like a conventional two-piece strap. It goes onto the fixed bar without removing anything from the case, so no tools touch the lugs, which matters on an original gold watch where a scratch is permanent.
Black lizard is a natural match for a small gold dress watch of this era. Lizard is the dressiest of the exotic leathers, with fine scales that suit smaller dials. A heavier grain such as crocodile can look oversized next to a compact prewar case, while lizard keeps the proportions right. Black gives the strongest contrast against a gold case.
The 16mm gold classic buckle matches the case metal, which matters on a gold watch, where a steel buckle is the first thing the eye catches. At 70/115mm the strap is on the shorter side, sized for a smaller wrist. Lug width was not part of this order's notes, so it is left off the table; for fixed-bar watches we recommend measuring the inside distance between the lugs with calipers.
★★★★★
“I have a 1930s CYMA tank style watch that has 14mm fixed lugs and needed a strap that would fit it. I found these straps. The strap is perfect for this watch.”
David H. · Verified purchase · Custom open-ended strap
FAQ
Does a 1938 Omega cal. 23.4 need an open-ended strap?
Only if the bars between the lugs are fixed. Look for a seam or small hole on the outside of each lug: if there is none and the bar does not compress, it is fixed, and an open-ended strap is the right choice. A watchmaker can confirm it in a minute.
Can the buckle match a gold case?
Yes. Choose gold or rose gold hardware in the configurator on our custom open-ended straps page.
Every strap is made to order, so allow 2–3 weeks to delivery. Browse lizard leather watch straps or start from our custom leather watch straps.