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Think of your watch like a car: the movement is the engine, the case is the body, and accessories are the rims and tires that make it yours. A small strap swap, a fresh bezel, or a precision movement can change how a timepiece looks, wears, and performs. Whether you’re sprucing up a casual daily beater or upgrading a heirloom, the right accessories extend life, add personality, and often save you money compared with buying new. Let’s walk through the best places to buy and the must-have parts to keep on hand.
If you’re shopping for movements, straps, or case components, there are several reliable U.S. options. Each brings a different strength: big-box selection, specialty tools, luxury pieces, or budget-friendly repair kits. Below are stores you’ll want on your radar when upgrading or repairing watches.
Walmart is a surprise contender for watch accessories because it stocks everything from replacement straps to fashionable watches. You can find high-profile name-brand watches and select accessory items like replacement case fronts or fashion straps at accessible price points. Walmart is useful when you want a fashion-forward accessory quickly and affordably without hunting through specialty retailers.
Cerqular appears in watch accessory listings for its selection of movement kits and replacement case fronts. If you’re looking for specific movements such as the Miyota 8215 or Seiko NH36, Cerqular-style sellers often provide options for assembled or disassembled delivery, plus add-on warranty options. They can be a good source for components if you’re doing repair work or building a custom watch project.
Amazon is the go-to for sheer variety. You’ll find everything from OEM-style straps to basic hand tools, spring bars, and movement kits. Reviews and fast shipping make it easy to compare options, but be careful to vet sellers for authenticity and compatibility when it comes to movements or branded parts.
Retailers like Jomashop, Macy’s, and other authorized sellers focus on brand-new watches and genuine replacement parts. If you need an OEM bezel or a factory service part for a higher-end watch, these outlets often have access to authentic components or can order them through official channels.
For hobbyists and watchmakers, supply houses like Esslinger and Otto Frei are indispensable. They stock watchmaker tools, movement holders, crystal presses, and movement kits. If you plan to tinker or repair frequently, these specialty stores are worth a bookmark for tools, spare parts, and technical supplies.
If straps are your focus, StrapsCo and other strap specialists offer a huge range of materials, buckles, and quick-release options. They sell everything from heavy-duty leather to NATO straps, silicone, and exotic materials. These shops are ideal when fit, finish, and comfort are a priority.
Before you buy, think about what you actually use. A small toolkit, a handful of straps, and at least one spare movement can cover most needs. Here are the essentials every watch owner should consider keeping on hand.
Movements are the heart of your watch. The Miyota 8215 is a robust, affordable automatic movement popular in many affordable mechanical watches. It’s often sold in kits—assembled or disassembled—and commonly offered with optional warranty add-ons. The Seiko NH36 is another reliable caliber, favored for its hacking and hand-winding features. Both provide solid timekeeping for projects and repairs. When shopping, check if the seller provides the movement with or without hands and dial, and whether it’s regulated before shipping.
Movement kits range from single-movement packages to mega bundles that include multiple movements, dials, hands, and tools. Bundles are great for DIY watchmakers or repair shops because they offer variety and spare parts. You’ll see options labeled “assembled” (ready to drop into a case) or “disassembled” (you assemble or install parts yourself). For beginners, an assembled kit saves headache; for hobbyists who love tinkering, disassembled kits are part of the fun.
Straps are the easiest way to change a watch’s personality. Look for straps that match your lug width in inches—common widths are roughly 0.71 inches (18mm), 0.79 inches (20mm), and 0.87 inches (22mm). Buckles matter too; a high-quality butterfly clasp or signed buckle elevates fit and security. Don’t forget spare spring bars—those tiny rods are often the weakest link and swapping them regularly prevents accidents.
Damaged case fronts or scratched crystals spoil a watch’s look and reduce water resistance. Replacement case fronts in common finishes like silver can refresh a worn watch for a fraction of the cost of a full service. When replacing crystals, pay attention to thickness and diameter measured in inches so the new piece sits flush in the case and seals properly.
Wondering whether to buy an assembled movement or a disassembled kit? If you’re not comfortable aligning hands, regulating beat rates, or seating movements within movement holders, go for assembled. Assembled movements are tested and often regulated at the factory. Disassembled kits are cheaper and great for learning, but expect to spend more time and possibly money on tools like hand presses and movement holders.
Measure twice, buy once. Use a digital caliper or a reliable ruler to measure lug width and case diameter in inches. For example, a common lug width might be 0.79 inches (equivalent to many 20mm straps). Strap length is equally important; typical men’s strap lengths range from about 3.0 inches for the short side up to 4.5 inches for the long side, and total lengths often land between 7.5 and 9.5 inches depending on fit and buckle type. Always confirm the thickness of replacement components so they fit under the spring bar slots correctly.
Start small: practice on inexpensive cases before you touch a watch with sentimental value. For straps, use a spring bar tool and push the bar gently toward the lug hole while easing the strap into place. For movements, handle parts with gloves or finger cots to avoid oil and dirt. Insert the movement into the case from the dial side, secure it with movement screws or clamps, then attach the hands using a hand-setting tool. If the movement kit is disassembled, check the balance staff for smooth oscillation before sealing the case back.
Accessories need love too. Leather straps benefit from a rest rotation—don’t wear the same strap every day. Silicone and metal can be cleaned with mild soap and water; dry immediately to avoid corrosion at the pins and clasp. Keep spare movements in anti-static bags and away from magnetic fields; even a household speaker can magnetize components and affect timekeeping. Store crystals and bezels flat to prevent warping.
Not every upgrade requires a luxury price tag. However, if you’ve invested in a mechanical movement worth several hundred dollars, splurging on an OEM case, sapphire crystal, or a premium strap can protect that investment and improve resale value. Luxury accessories—like branded buckles or genuine exotic leather straps—are worth it when they improve comfort, match the watch’s quality, or add long-term durability.
Luxury accessories can come from big-name brand channels or curated sellers. For example, certain high-fashion or branded watches occasionally appear at mainstream outlets and department stores, which can be a convenient way to score a designer piece. If you’re seeking something rare—like diamond-accented fashion watches—keep an eye on reputable retailers and auction platforms that list authenticated pieces. Always verify authenticity before purchasing high-value items.
Compare prices across sellers, check return windows, and read warranty fine print for movement kits and branded parts. Some sellers offer optional warranty add-ons—useful for higher-value movements or assembled kits. When buying from marketplaces, prefer sellers with detailed descriptions and multiple positive reviews. For major repairs or authentic OEM parts, authorized dealers or specialty watchmakers are often the safest bet.
Always confirm compatibility: match lug width in inches, verify movement size and hand fit, and check crown and stem length if replacing the movement. Remember to gather the right tools—hand press, screwdrivers, and spring bar tools—before starting a job. If you’re ever unsure, consider a local watchmaker for installation to avoid accidental damage.
Buying watch accessories is a blend of practicality and personality. Whether you shop big-box stores for convenience, specialty suppliers for parts, or strap specialists for style, the right choices can transform a watch at modest cost. Learn a few measurement basics in inches, invest in a small toolkit, and choose assembled movements if you prefer plug-and-play ease. With the right approach, you’ll keep your collection looking sharp and running smoothly for years.
