The story behind HELFORD
Our story
Helford was started by people who spend a lot of time in and around the water. We enjoy spearfishing, freediving, kayaking and openwater swimming, and naturally prefer a rubber strap for that kind of lifestyle.
When we looked into switching to a rubber strap, we realised Tudor's option required buying a separate clasp at considerable extra cost. Our original clasps were perfectly good, with scratches picked up along the way making them our own. We saw no reason to replace them just to change the strap.
That became the idea behind HELFORD: a rubber strap designed to work with the original bracelet clasp and end links.
Why HELFORD
The name comes from the Helford River in Cornwall, England. A place we love spending time in and enjoying the activities that inspired HELFORD.
If you're ever in the area, we'd recommend exploring the coastline and taking the small ferry across the river to the other side. Before or after, stop by the Ferry Boat Inn for a drink or something to eat.
It's a place that means a lot to us, and one that naturally found its way into the name and design of the brand.
The area also influenced the design itself. The rounded stones at Grebe Beach were a particular inspiration for the shape of the strap, with their smooth, subtle forms reflected in its rounded profile.
Made to be used
We chose Japanese sourced FKM for its flexibility, durability and feel. With a personal connection to Japan, sourcing the material there felt like a natural fit for us. We made the strap we wanted to wear ourselves. Now it's yours to use.
HELFORD