Questions, answered plainly

Everything here is how it actually is at the workshop. If your question is not answered — or you want a number we have not published — email info@bettelwatches.com and a person will answer it.

Sizing and fit

Which size will fit my wrist?

Measure your wrist in millimetres — a tape measure, or a strip of paper against a ruler. Then:

• 133–160mm — the 36mm Acorn is the one. The larger models start at 160mm.
• 160–170mm — everything in the range fits; it becomes about how large you want it to look. 36mm is discreet, 44mm is a statement.
• 170–205mm — the 40mm and 44mm models.

The Automatics come in the same 40mm and 44mm cases; for their exact thickness and weight, ask us.

How heavy is a wooden watch?

About 26 grams. A steel watch the same size typically weighs 80–150 grams — roughly five times as much. If you find watches heavy, or have never worn one comfortably, this is the fact that matters.

Care

Is it waterproof?

The honest advice is try not to get it wet. It is splash resistant, so rain or a splash at the tap by mistake will almost certainly be fine — but it is not rated for swimming, showering, the sea or the bath, and we'd keep it off during heavy exercise.

If water does get in, the watch can be repaired. The case is generally fine; the dial, movement, hands, crystal and back can all be replaced. Tell us what happened and we'll say what it needs.

What about the battery?

The quartz models run a Japanese Miyota movement with a battery life of about two years. When it stops, any reputable watch shop can replace the battery — no need to send it back to Cape Town — or send it to us for a full refurbishment and it comes back looking new. Prices below.

Does the wood need oiling or special care?

No — the case needs no treatment at all. Keep the leather strap out of direct sunlight for extended periods when the watch is not being worn. Wood mellows a little in colour with wear and light; that is character, not a fault. (How each timber ages over years in different climates is something we are still documenting — ask, and we will give you an honest answer rather than a glossy one.)

What is it made of?

• Case: solid Kiaat, a South African hardwood — every model, engraved on the back.
• Dial: white beech or American walnut; the Carbon Portal sets a round carbon-fibre disc into the walnut.
• Strap: South African full-grain leather.
• Buckle and lugs: 316 stainless steel — the corrosion-resistant marine grade.
• Crystal: hardened mineral glass.

The woods

Which wood is the model name talking about?

The dial. An "Albatross Walnut" has an American walnut dial. Every case in the range is Kiaat (also called African teak) — the warm reddish-brown, locally sourced timber. American walnut is imported; white beech makes the paler, brighter face of the range.

Will my watch look exactly like the photographs?

Very close — but wood is a natural material, so every case and dial carries its own colour and grain. No two watches are quite alike.

Straps

Can I choose the strap colour?

Yes — black, brown or tan at purchase, and any other colour can be made to order: just ask.

Can the strap be replaced later?

Yes. A wooden watch outlives its strap, and a replacement — made and fitted at our workshop — is R750 (a strap on its own is R1 450). One honest note: the lugs are pressed and glued rather than quick-release, so we suggest fitting by us, or by a watch shop you have told that to. A careful owner can do it; it is just not a push-button job. Strap widths are 18mm (Acorn), 20mm (40mm models) and 22mm (44mm models).

Service and repairs

Workshop prices. Postage to and from the workshop is arranged case by case — email us before sending anything.

Warranty, shipping and returns

Twelve months on the movement, case and workmanship; 30-day returns; free worldwide shipping with tracking, dispatched within two working days for in-stock watches. Your country may charge import duty on arrival — that is set by your government, not included in our price. The full terms, including exactly who pays shipping in each case, live on the warranty page.

Seeing them in person

Bettél is sold at the Watershed, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town — open seven days a week. Come and try one on.