The world of vintage watch straps is a fascinating realm, filled with stories of forgotten materials, innovative designs, and enduring style. Among the most sought-after straps are those made from Corfam, a synthetic material developed by DuPont in the mid-20th century. This article will explore the specific niche of the 22cm (or more accurately, 22mm) Corfam Omega Rally watch band, delving into its history, characteristics, desirability, and the challenges of finding and maintaining these increasingly rare pieces. We'll also address the question often posed online: "Anyone owning a vintage 22mm Corfam strap?" and examine the market for genuine "22mm GENUINE CORFAM® RALLY BLACK RACING STRAP" offerings.
The Allure of Corfam:
Before diving into the specifics of the Omega Rally band, it's crucial to understand the appeal of Corfam itself. Developed as an alternative to leather, Corfam offered several advantages. It was remarkably durable, resistant to water and scuffs, and relatively easy to clean. Its smooth, almost plastic-like texture gave it a distinctive look that contrasted sharply with the grain of traditional leather. For watch straps, this translated to a clean, modern aesthetic that perfectly complemented the minimalist designs prevalent in the mid-century. The material's inherent stiffness also contributed to a certain formality, making it a suitable choice for both dress and sporty watches. However, Corfam's popularity was short-lived. While initially praised for its practicality, its breathability proved inferior to leather, and its somewhat artificial feel eventually led to its decline in the face of competing materials. This very limited production run and subsequent obsolescence contributes significantly to the desirability of vintage Corfam straps today.
The Omega Rally Connection:
The Omega Rally watch, produced throughout various periods, is inextricably linked with Corfam straps. The association is not accidental; the material's characteristics perfectly matched the sporty yet sophisticated nature of the watch. The Omega Rally's clean lines and functional design were complemented by the Corfam strap's smooth surface and relatively rigid structure. The combination created a cohesive aesthetic that appealed to a wide range of enthusiasts. Many collectors specifically seek out Omega Rally watches paired with their original Corfam straps, recognizing the historical significance and stylistic integrity of the pairing. The black Corfam strap, in particular, became almost synonymous with the watch, further cementing its place in watch strap history.
The 22mm Dimension: A Matter of Precision:
The specification of a "22cm" Corfam Omega Rally strap is likely a misnomer. Watch straps are typically measured in millimeters (mm), referring to the width between the lugs of the watch case. A 22cm measurement would refer to the overall length of the strap, which varies considerably depending on the size and style. The more accurate and relevant dimension is 22mm, indicating the lug width. This is a crucial detail, as finding a correctly sized strap for a specific watch is paramount. A strap that's too narrow will look disproportionate, while one that's too wide will not fit the watch at all. The 22mm width was, and remains, a popular size for many watch models, contributing to the sustained demand for 22mm Corfam straps.
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