OctoPod watch strap system clasp

The ZULUDIVER OctoPod Watch Strap System

Written by: Andy Hillier

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Time to read 6 min

"In 1973 the British Army invented a watch strap. Fifty years later, we perfected it!"

Development of Project OctoPod

We don't settle for good enough, so we constantly strive to improve everything we do. So we took the classic British 1973 military watch strap, kept what we loved and fixed what we didn't.


We kept that same classic nylon webbing that hugs your wrist and that looks stunning without costing the earth.


We also wanted to keep the security of weaving the strap through both spring bars, so if one bar breaks you won't lose your watch at the bottom of the sea or hear the horrific sound of it hitting a concrete pavement.

OctoPod Buckle with Sandblasted Finish
OctoPod HydraRib Green Ares Strap

After numerous prototypes and field tests, we concluded that a deployment clasp could be developed but it would require a complete redesign of the strap itself along with the creation of the bespoke clasp.

It took over a year to develop the OctoPod system to ensure we had the right innovative design, with a distinctly different design for a watch strap.


Key Design Features

  • Saltwater-resistant 316L steel.
  • Dual push-button security.
  • Interchangeable webbing designs.
  • Expandable elastic webbing options.
  • Quick release from the wrist.

May 2024 MK3 Design Updates


With a sleeker, more compact profile, Version 3 stays true to our original operating concept while offering 100% compatibility with our OctoPod watch strap range.


We've improved our manufacturing processes to guarantee build quality and reliability that you can always depend on. 


All surfaces and edges have been refined, ensuring not just style, but improved comfort.


Every detail matters. That's why we've updated our finishing processes to create a luxuriously detailed brand logo.


And for peace of mind, we've registered the design to ensure authenticity and quality assurance.

OctoPod watch strap fitted to No Time to Die James Bond webbing
https://www.instagram.com/watchillaax/

Video: How does OctoPod system work?

OctoPod Starter Pack

The OctoPod starter pack is available with the deployment clasp and five bespoke elastic straps. These strap packs have been created to complement one another with the hope that several from the collection will suit the chosen watch platform.


The OctoPod is a unique package offering the first high-end adjustable deployment clasp which fits bespoke Military style straps. Its name derives from the fact that the strap folds eight times within the new buckle system, i.e.: 8-Octo.

OctoPod watch strap system starter pack tin
OctoPod Watch Strap Sets

OctoPod Buckle Finishes

All of our buckles are made from salt-water-resistant 316L stainless steel, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance. To cater to a variety of personal styles and to perfectly match different watch case finishes, we offer six distinct applied finishings.

Brushed and Polished

This finish combines a sleek, matte brushed surface with shiny polished edges and a recessed logo plate. It provides a balanced look that complements both modern and classic watch designs. This finish is deal for those who appreciate subtle sophistication and it pairs well with brushed or mixed finish watch cases, adding a touch of elegance without overpowering the overall aesthetic.

OctoPod Brushed and Polished Finish

Sandblasted

The sandblasted finish offers a unique, matte texture that stands out for its understated, rugged charm. It’s particularly suitable for tool watches or those with a sporty, utilitarian design. This finish complements matte or bead-blasted watch cases, providing a robust and cohesive look.

OctoPod Sandblasted Finish

Full Mirror Polish

The full mirror polish finish is the epitome of luxury and refinement. With its high-gloss, reflective surface, this finish gives a sense of high-end craftsmanship. Perfect for formal or dress watches, it matches seamlessly with high-polish watch cases, creating a striking appearance.

OctoPod Full Mirror Polish

Black

Our PVD Black finish features a sleek, modern black coating applied through Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) technology. This finish is ideal for contemporary watch designs and adds a bold, stylish edge to any watch. It pairs exceptionally well with black or dark-toned watch cases, enhancing the overall stealthy, sophisticated aesthetic.

OctoPod Black Finish

Antique Bronze Effect

Our PVD Antique Bronze effect finish provides a distinctive, aged look that adds character and heritage. It’s perfect for vintage-inspired or heritage watches, giving them an authentic, timeless appeal. This finish pairs beautifully with bronze or similarly aged watch cases, enhancing the overall vintage vibe and adding a unique touch to your watch.

OctoPod Bronze Effect

Polished Gold

The PVD Polished Gold finish brings a touch of opulence and vintage charm to your watch. With its rich, golden hue and polished surface, it’s perfect for watches designed to make a statement. This finish is a great match for gold-tone or gold-plated watch cases, offering a seamless and luxurious appearance that stands out.

OctoPod Polished Gold

OctoPod Watch Straps: Ultimate selection of Materials & Colours

Elastic Nylon

The OctoPod watch strap system was first introduced with our innovative elasticated watch straps, designed to solve the challenges of traditional straps, particularly their lack of flexibility during sports and outdoor adventures.


Crafted from elasticated nylon, these straps adapt effortlessly to changes in wrist size caused by temperature fluctuations or physical activity, providing a secure fit without the need for frequent adjustments.


So say goodbye to the hassle of finding the perfect hole in your strap. The Elastic OctoPod system adjusts dynamically to your wrist size, providing a snug, secure fit that stays comfortable throughout the day. No more fiddling with buckles or dealing with a strap that's too tight or too loose.

OctoPod Elastic Aden Watch Strap

HydraRib Nylon

We've then extended OctoPod into our popular HydraRib strap materials to include our popular HydraRib nylon, a premium, high-quality 100% polyamide yarn that's been tested and certified to BS EN 14362.


Using a core-spun technique and precision weaving machines, we've crafted a three-dimensional pattern and feel, and specially dyed and colour-fixed at high temperatures to ensure it stays looking great even after extended use. And because it's also waterproof and washable, you can wear it with confidence in any weather.

OctoPod HydraRib Ares

Apex Nylon

The Apex nylon is made from 100% polyester material, ensuring exceptional durability. It is not only long-lasting but also non-toxic environmentally friendly, reflecting our commitment to both quality and sustainability.


Cutting-edge production techniques, including high-temperature and high-pressure dyeing, as well as filament twisting, to create the Apex nylon material. These methods result in vibrant, fade-resistant colors that maintain their brilliance over time. 

Oxford Leather

As you wear it over time, the leather will develop a patina, giving it a unique vintage look.


Key Features

  • Genuine oiled top-grain leather
  • Timeless leather aroma
  • Hot-stamp line detailing around the outside edge
  • Hand-painted and sealed edges
  • Natural ageing patina leather
OctoPod Oxford Leather

The OctoPod concept is just as tough as any traditional Military Nylon strap but gives a much more high-end look to your special watch.


This new strap fundamentally changes the way Military style straps fit and are worn yet remains true to the look you want from a Military style strap. Embrace the evolution and try a radically new OctoPod from ZULUDIVER.

ZULUDIVER OctoPod Buckle in PVD Black

Frequently asked questions about OctoPod

Will it fit my watch?

This watch strap system will work with any standard 20mm or 22mm width watch strap fitting, we are looking at extending the buckle to fit some other sizes.

Do I need any special tools to change the watch straps?

No, the strap weaves between the spring bars so you wouldn't need to carry any special tools to change to a different strap once it's installed.

Will it fit my wrist?

The system is designed to fit a wide range of wrist sizes, from 150mm (6inces) to a maximum of 220mm (8.75 inches)

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