Watches are available in a great variety of styles to please many people. Just as the watch face is an important design element, the watch band will contribute greatly to the look and comfort of any watch. To accommodate the many watch preferences among wearers, watch bands are available in many colors, materials and structure types.

Metal watch bands are available in platinum, gold, silver and stainless steel. Fine metals and stainless steel will not rust although the metals may be bent if there is an impact with enough force to do so. If another color or a softer texture is required, a watch band may be found in leather, a woven material, plastic or nylon, which are all available in many color choices. Polyester, nylon and woven materials are comfortable materials for the watch band. These materials are generally porous and allow the skin to breath. A watch band may be opaque or see through.

Leather bands may be created from different sources. There are leather bands for watches made from cowhide, while the more exotic leathers are made from ostrich, emu, sting ray, snake, crocodile, lizard, shark, eel, buffalo, chicken, peccary and fish skins. Each of these natural leathers have their own special textures, softness, flexibility and durability that the material can contribute to the watch. Many of the exotic leathers are hand processed and dyed before they are used in the construction of watches. The leathers can be created with special processes that will enhance the texture and color of the leather.

Leather bands should not be left in a sunny spot as this can fade the watch band. Leather watches are also subject to stains and smudges from different substances. Some leathers are more durable than other leathers.

Unlike more flexible wrist bands, bracelet watches have a set size and should be fitted for the wearer's comfort. The bracelet watch may have a chain, bangle or molded shape that fits the wrist comfortably. If such a wrist band is too tight, it may chafe and irritate the wearer's skin.

When a durable watch band is desired, the hardiest watch bands will be constructed of plastic and rubber. Neither of these materials can be damaged easily and both can be washed easily. Both materials can be made in a flexible or set watch shape and are lightweight. It is possible to create many textures and colors with these materials. The main problem with these watch band materials is the potential for sweating under the watch band.

Some watches have replacement watch bands for greater convenience. This is more common with popular watch brands and styles. If you are buying an expensive watch, it may be worth it to find out whether there are replacement wrist bands available for the model.

Watch bands can express the personality and style of a watch just as easily as its face can. Watches will be as comfortable as their watch bands so it is important to get a properly fitted watch for any wearer. A comfortable watch band will ensure that the wearer enjoys wearing their watch as much as the person enjoys using it.