The Panerai Source Forums

Iam new to panerai and have had my 88 for a couple of weeks.
After reading the various posts and seeing many pics iam already thinking of aftermarket straps.
Iam based in UK and have been looking at Toshi straps.Some really nice stuff on there.
I want a strap that is quite soft as i find the oem alligator a little stiff.
Am i correct in thinking that the way to go with the buckle type is pre V type?
I was also thinking of getting the sewn in type rather than the spring bar type. (what do most people prefer?)

I know that straps and buckles are down to personal preference but i would like to keep to panerai history to some extent.

Iam learning all the time but would appreciate any advice that could be given.

As for the buckle type.. its all about personal preference.. if you prefer a lower profile look, the Thumbnail buckle is your friend. I personally prefer sewn-in look, but sometimes like to be able to switch the buckles depending on the watch, so it is less flexible that way. Your 88 is not a historical model so you could pretty much put whatever you like on it and you wouldn't be breakin' any rules

Toshi straps are not softer than OEM straps, just so you know. The softest straps I've experienced I think would be the Wotancraft XX Vintage straps.