Straps for Royal Pop: Wear the AP x Swatch on Your Wrist
The Audemars Piguet x Swatch "Royal Pop" caused queues outside stores at launch. It is, however, a pocket watch, not a wristwatch. If you want to wear it on your wrist, you need a suitable strap and case. This guide explains how that works and what to check before buying.
What is the AP x Swatch Royal Pop?
The Royal Pop is the first joint pocket watch from Audemars Piguet and Swatch. It has a bioceramic case in the Royal Oak shape and a hand-wound SISTEM51 mechanical movement. The collection has eight models, each named with a colour and the number eight in a different language:
- Ocho Negro
- Green Eight
- Blaue Acht
- Làn Ba
- Orenji Hachi
- Huit Blanc
- OTG Roz
- Otto Rosso
There are two constructions: on some models the crown sits at 12 o'clock, on others at 3 o'clock. Check your own watch before choosing a kit.
Why wear the Royal Pop on the wrist?
The watch ships with a band so it can be carried in a pocket, around the neck or on a bag. That is not practical for everyone. On the wrist you read the time at a glance, and the Royal Oak design is far more visible. That is why so many owners look for a strap for the Royal Pop.
How a strap and case kit works
A strap alone is not enough on a pocket watch, because there are no lugs. A kit therefore has two parts:
- Adapter case: holds the watch head of your Royal Pop securely.
- Strap: attaches to the adapter case like on any wristwatch.
The watch itself is not modified. Nothing is drilled, glued or soldered, and the fitting is fully reversible. The original band stays untouched, so you can return to pocket-watch use at any time.
Three material options
FKM rubber
Soft, light and water-friendly, this is the sporty everyday choice, available in single and two-tone combinations. See our rubber straps for the AP x Swatch Royal Pop.
Ceramic
Scratch-resistant and premium in feel, ceramic echoes the bioceramic of the watch head. Browse the ceramic straps for the AP x Swatch Royal Pop.
Steel integrated bracelet
For the look of a classic sports watch with an integrated metal bracelet, the steel strap for the Royal Pop is the heaviest and most refined option.
Compatibility: crown position matters
WatchCollab kits are made for both constructions, crown at 12 and crown at 3, but the case cut-out differs, so you select your model when ordering. These straps are accessories for the Royal Pop. The easiest route is straps for the Royal Pop by model, and the full range is under straps and cases for the Royal Pop.
Fitting in four steps
- Remove the Royal Pop from its original band.
- Place the watch head in the adapter case until it clicks securely into place, checking the crown orientation.
- Attach the strap and adjust it to your wrist.
- Give it a gentle pull to check there is no play.
Everything you need is included with the kit.
Price and delivery
Kits start at 69.99 EUR. Delivery is usually within 24 to 72 hours.
Honest limits
An adapter case makes the watch thicker and heavier on the wrist than a purpose-built wristwatch. The Royal Pop was designed as a pocket watch and you will feel it. In return it stays original and unmodified.
FAQ
Does the kit modify my Royal Pop?
No. The watch head is simply placed in the adapter case. The original band is untouched and you can switch back at any time.
Which kit fits my Royal Pop?
Kits exist for both crown positions, 12 and 3 o'clock. Browsing by model makes sure you get the right case cut-out.
Which material should I choose?
Rubber is light and practical, ceramic is scratch-resistant and premium, steel is classic and heavier. It comes down to taste.
WatchCollab is an independent brand and is not affiliated with the Swatch Group or Audemars Piguet.