Artem Straps began their brand journey with a popular hybrid sailcloth back in 2019. Recently, the brand added a Loop-lessTM option on a deployant strap. However, never one to rest of their laurels, Artem has just released a premium FKM rubber strap, which has been layered with an embossed, custom synthetic material they are calling HydroFlexTM. As a lover of dive watches and of tool watches, in general, I was particularly excited by the latest development.
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As the name suggests, the HydroFlex Collection is water-resistant, supple, and extremely tough. Like the sailcloth straps before them, the new HydroFlex offerings are athletic and refined at the same time. They taper from 5.35mm at the lug end to a mere 2.55mm at the tips. Out of the box, the straps are elastic and conform comfortably to the wrist with no break-in period required. The pair of keepers are adjusted easily and do not get hung up or caught like many rubberized options—nor do they have the propensity to catch and pluck arm hairs.
In addition, as a product of fluoroelastomers, the FKM base is much more resistant to things like heat and chemicals, including those found in bodily fluids like sodium, chloride, and phosphates. As such, the HydroFlex should prove to be long-lasting.
The straps come equipped with quick release spring bars and a choice of robust, stainless steel or PVD-finished buckles. However, the bands are also compatible with Artem’s RM-style deployant clasps, if you are looking for a convenient dive option.
The HydroFlexTM is available in four colours, including blue, green, grey, and black. Of the four options, only the black is monochrome. The other three come in two tones—employing black underlays and keepers. While at the moment, the straps are only available in 20mm lug widths, plans to issue further sizes are already underway.
Final Thoughts
I own five different straps from Artem. The oldest have been in my collection for more than three years. Despite consistent wear, they look as good now as they did on the day I received them. That Artem produces a quality strap is no longer a question for me. However, what is most impressive is that the brand continues to iterate and push forward in spite of its success.
Unquestionably, the HydroFlexTM is my favourite Artem strap yet. Is this a subjective statement? Or course it is. But that does not make it any less true for me. As mentioned from the outset, my collection consists primarily of divers and a variety of other tool watches. If it is my intention to submit those watches to the rigours of an active lifestyle–and it is–then it stands to reason that I need straps which will accompany those timepieces anywhere. The HydroFlexTM Collection is the perfect choice in that regard. Flexible and resilient and comfortable on wrist–what more for any man (or woman, for that matter)?
Artem HydroFlexTM Straps retail for $218USD. For more info, please visit the brand website.
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About the author
Brent Robillard is a writer, educator, craftsman, and watch enthusiast. He is the author of four novels. You can follow him on Instagram.
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