Legal notice

Legal Terms & Conditions

FinWatchStraps | www.finwatchstraps.com
Effective Date: January 28, 2026
Location: Finland

About Our Products

FinWatchStraps specializes in handcrafted watch straps made from premium materials including Harris Tweed, Finnish reindeer leather, Italian calf leather, and carefully selected exotic skins. Each strap is produced to order according to your specifications, ensuring a unique product tailored to your watch.

What "Made-to-Order" Means:

Production begins within 24 hours of order confirmation
Each strap is crafted specifically for your watch model and preferences
Materials are cut and prepared according to your chosen specifications
No two straps are identical

1. Custom Orders & Specifications

Your Responsibility

To ensure perfect fit, please verify the following before ordering:

Watch Measurements:

Lug width (the distance between lugs where strap attaches)
Lug-to-lug spacing
Watch case thickness
Preferred strap length for your wrist

Our Support:

Free consultation via email or phone before ordering
Detailed measurement guides on our website
Quick response to specification questions
Confirmation of compatibility with your watch model

Order Modifications

Within 24 hours: Full modifications possible at no charge
After 24 hours: Production has begun; modifications not possible
After 48 hours: Order cannot be cancelled

We recommend double-checking all specifications before final confirmation.

2. Returns & Exchanges Policy

Custom-Made Products

Due to the personalized nature of our products:

Custom straps cannot be returned or exchanged
No refunds are available for made-to-order items
This applies to all straps where you selected specific parameters (width, length, material, color, stitching, etc.)

Why this policy exists: Each strap is crafted specifically for your watch and preferences, making it unsuitable for other customers.

Manufacturing Defects

We stand behind our craftsmanship. If we make an error in production:

We will remake your strap at no charge within 15-20 business days
Alternatively, we offer store credit for future purchases
Manufacturing defects include: wrong dimensions, wrong color, defective stitching

Not considered defects: Natural leather characteristics, minor color variations between batches (±1-2 tones), patina development, natural material markings.

Standard (Non-Custom) Products

If you order a standard, non-customized strap:

14-day return period from delivery date
Item must be unused and in original condition
Return shipping costs are customer's responsibility
Refund processed within 14 business days of receipt

Return Process:

Contact us at @finwatchstraps.com within 14 days
Receive return authorization and address
Ship item with tracking
Refund issued to original payment method

3. Product Quality & Warranty

12-Month Craftsmanship Warranty

We guarantee our workmanship for 12 months from delivery date.

Covered:

Stitching defects or seam separation under normal use
Material separation or delamination due to manufacturing fault
Hardware defects (buckles, keepers) due to production error

Not Covered:

Normal wear and tear (softening, patina, natural aging)
Damage from water exposure, chemicals, or improper care
Damage from incorrect installation
Wear from sports, swimming, or extreme conditions
Color fading from UV exposure
Customer-caused damage or modifications

Warranty Claim Process:

Contact us with photos and order details
We assess the issue (usually within 3-5 business days)
If approved: remake or store credit provided
Customer covers return shipping for warranty claims

Expected Lifespan

With proper care, our straps typically last:

Premium Calf Leather: 2-4 years
Exotic Leathers (ostrich, lizard): 3-5 years
Harris Tweed: 3-5 years
Reindeer Leather: 2-4 years
Rubber/Synthetic: 2-3 years

Lifespan varies based on:

Frequency of wear (daily vs. occasional)
Care and maintenance routine
Climate and humidity conditions
Type of activities while wearing

4. Material Characteristics & Care

Natural Leather Properties

Leather is a natural material that develops character over time:

Color deepens and patina develops with use (this is normal and desirable)
Minor color variation between production batches may occur
Natural markings, grain patterns, and texture variations are characteristics, not defects
Each strap is unique due to natural material properties

Care Recommendations

Leather Straps:

Avoid prolonged water exposure
Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Condition every 3-6 months with leather conditioner
Avoid perfumes, chemicals, and harsh soaps
Allow to dry naturally if exposed to moisture
Rotate between multiple straps to extend lifespan

Exotic Leathers:

Require specialized leather conditioner
More sensitive to water than calf leather
Need climate-controlled storage
Professional cleaning recommended

Harris Tweed:

Can be lightly brushed to refresh
Spot clean with damp cloth if needed
Avoid machine washing
Allow to air dry completely

Water Resistance: Our straps are not designed for swimming or water sports unless specifically treated and marked as water-resistant. Even water-resistant leather remains porous and should not be immersed.

5. Installation & Safe Use

Professional Installation Recommended

For optimal results and to protect your watch:

Have straps installed by a qualified watchmaker or experienced person
Use correct spring bars for your watch model
Ensure proper alignment and seating
Do not over-tighten or force installation

Installation Resources We Provide:

Detailed video tutorials on our YouTube channel
Step-by-step photo guides on our website
Email support for installation questions
Recommendations for tools and spring bars

Regular Inspection

For your watch's safety:

Check strap attachment monthly
Inspect for signs of wear, cracking, or loosening
Replace strap if you notice any deterioration
Ensure spring bars are secure

Important Safety Notice

While we use premium materials and craftsmanship, straps can wear over time. Regular inspection is essential to prevent watch damage or loss. We cannot be responsible for watch damage resulting from strap failure, improper installation, or lack of maintenance. Your watch's security is ultimately your responsibility.

6. Shipping & Delivery

Production & Shipping Timeline

Production: 10-15 business days (handmade process)
Shipping Times (from dispatch):

Finland: 2-4 business days
EU Countries: 5-10 business days
UK, Switzerland, Norway: 7-14 business days
USA & Canada: 10-18 business days
Asia Pacific: 14-25 business days
Other destinations: 15-30 business days

Important: These are estimates based on typical courier performance. Actual delivery may vary due to:

Customs clearance procedures
Courier operational delays
Seasonal peak periods (holidays, sales events)
Weather or transportation disruptions
Remote or rural delivery locations

Tracking & Updates

Tracking number provided once shipped
Email notifications at key shipping stages
Contact us if tracking shows no movement for 7+ days

Shipping Protection

All packages are carefully packaged to prevent damage
Insurance available for high-value orders (optional at checkout)
Risk transfers to carrier once package is dispatched

Delivery Issues

Lost Packages: If tracking shows "delivered" but you haven't received your package:

Check with neighbors, building reception, or household members
Contact the courier directly with tracking number
File a claim with courier if package cannot be located
Contact us - we'll assist with carrier communication

Damaged Packages:

Photograph damage immediately (box and contents)
Report to courier within 48 hours
Contact us with photos - we'll help resolve the issue
File insurance claim if applicable

We work with you to resolve shipping issues, but ultimate liability rests with the shipping carrier per international shipping laws.

7. International Orders: Customs & Import Duties

Your Responsibilities

You are responsible for:

All customs duties and import taxes in your country
Customs clearance fees
VAT/GST on imports (where applicable)
Compliance with local import regulations
Any additional handling fees charged by carriers

Important: Prices on our website do NOT include import duties, customs taxes, or VAT for non-EU customers. These are assessed by YOUR country's customs authority and must be paid by you.

How It Works

We prepare: Complete customs documentation accurately
Package ships: Sent via international courier
Arrives in your country: Customs reviews and assesses duties/taxes
You receive notice: Courier or customs contacts you for payment
You pay: Duties/taxes paid to courier or customs directly
Delivery completed: Package cleared and delivered to you

Typical Import Costs

EU Countries (for non-EU goods):

VAT: 19-27% depending on country
Customs duties: varies by product classification
Handling fees: €5-15 per package

United Kingdom:

VAT: 20%
Customs duties: typically 5-12% for leather goods
Courier handling fee: £10-15

USA:

Duties: typically 8-15% for leather goods
State sales tax: varies by state
Minimal courier fees

Canada:

GST/HST: 5-15% depending on province
Duties: 10-18% for leather goods
Handling fee: CAD $10-20

Total additional cost typically ranges from 15-40% of product value depending on your location.

Customs Delays

Standard: 1-5 business days
Extended inspections: 7-14 days
Complex cases: 14-21+ days

We cannot control or expedite customs processing. Delays are beyond our responsibility.

Exotic Materials & CITES

Some materials (ostrich, lizard, certain exotic skins) may be subject to CITES regulations:

Your responsibility: Verify legality of import into your country BEFORE ordering
Check with your national customs authority if uncertain
Some countries prohibit specific exotic materials
Confiscation by customs due to prohibited materials is not covered by refund or replacement

Resources:

CITES website: www.cites.org
Your national customs authority website
Contact us if you need material documentation

No Refunds for Customs Issues

We cannot refund or replace orders if:

Customs delays delivery significantly
You refuse to pay import duties
Package is seized due to prohibited materials
Duties are higher than you expected

Prevention: Research your country's import regulations before ordering. Contact us if you need documentation.

8. Payment Terms

Payment Methods

We accept:

Credit/Debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)
PayPal
Bank transfer (for orders over €500)

Payment Security

All payments processed through secure, encrypted systems
We never store complete credit card information
PCI DSS compliant payment processing

Payment Terms

Full payment required before production begins
Prices in EUR (€)
Currency conversion fees (if applicable) are customer's responsibility
All prices include Finnish VAT for EU customers

Chargebacks & Disputes

Before initiating a chargeback or payment dispute:

Contact us first at support@finwatchstraps.com
Most issues can be resolved quickly through communication
Provide your order number and describe the issue

Chargeback Policy:

Unjustified chargebacks are considered fraud
Chargeback fees, collection costs, and legal fees will be pursued
Account may be permanently banned for fraudulent chargebacks

We prefer to resolve issues cooperatively rather than through payment disputes.

9. Liability Limitations

What We Guarantee

Quality craftsmanship meeting premium standards
Accurate production according to your specifications
Premium materials as described
Timely communication and support

What We Cannot Control

While we strive for excellence, we cannot be held liable for:

Installation & Use:

Watch damage from improper strap installation
Strap failure due to worn spring bars or improper attachment
Watch loss from strap detachment during wear
Personal injury from watch falling

Material Aging:

Natural wear from regular use
Environmental damage (sun, water, chemicals)
Aging and patina development
Color changes over time

Third-Party Issues:

Shipping carrier delays, loss, or damage
Customs processing times or seizures
Watch repair service errors
Product misuse or modification by others

Indirect Damages:

Loss of watch value
Emotional distress
Lost time or business opportunities
Consequential or incidental damages

Maximum Liability

Our total liability is limited to the purchase price you paid for the product. This limitation applies to all claims except where prohibited by mandatory consumer law.

10. Consumer Rights (EU Customers)

EU Consumer Protections

If you are located in the European Union, you have:

Right of Withdrawal (14 days):

Applies to standard, non-customized products only
Does NOT apply to custom-made products per EU Directive 2011/83/EU Article 16(c)
Must notify us within 14 days of receipt
Product must be unused and in original condition

Legal Guarantee (2 years):

Applies to conformity defects present at time of delivery
Presumption of pre-existing defects for first 12 months
Right to repair, replacement, price reduction, or refund depending on circumstances
Custom products: statutory rights may be limited per EU law

Alternative Dispute Resolution:

Access to EU ODR Platform: https://ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr
National consumer authority: Finnish Consumer Authority (Kuluttajavirasto)
Mediation services available before litigation

Mandatory Consumer Law

These terms do not limit your mandatory statutory rights under Finnish or EU consumer law. In case of conflict, mandatory consumer protections prevail.

11. Governing Law & Disputes

Applicable Law

These terms are governed by Finnish law. EU consumer protection regulations apply where relevant.

Dispute Resolution Process

Step 1: Direct Contact

Email us at support@finwatchstraps.com with detailed description
Include order number, photos, and desired resolution
We respond within 3-5 business days

Step 2: Good Faith Negotiation

We work with you to find reasonable solution
Most issues resolved at this stage

Step 3: Mediation (if needed)

EU customers: use EU ODR Platform
Other customers: agree on neutral mediator
Cost-effective alternative to litigation

Step 4: Legal Action (last resort)

Jurisdiction: Finnish courts (or your local courts if mandatory consumer law requires)
Legal fees may apply

We prefer collaborative resolution over legal disputes.

12. Customer Service & Support

How to Reach Us

Email: info@finwatchstraps.com
Response Time: Within 24 hours on business days
Website: www.finwatchstraps.com

We're Here to Help With:

Measurement verification before ordering
Material selection advice
Installation guidance
Care and maintenance questions
Order status updates
Warranty claims
General inquiries

Before Ordering - Free Consultation

Not sure about specifications? We offer:

Free pre-order consultation via email
Detailed measurement guides
Compatibility verification for your watch model
Material recommendations based on your usage

We want you to be confident in your order. Please ask if uncertain!

13. Additional Terms

Intellectual Property

All product designs, photos, and content are property of FinWatchStraps
Commercial resale or reproduction prohibited without written permission
Personal use only unless otherwise agreed

Privacy & Data Protection

We process personal data according to GDPR
See our Privacy Policy for details: www.finwatchstraps.com/privacy
We never sell or share customer data with third parties

Force Majeure

We are not liable for delays or non-performance due to:

Natural disasters, pandemics, or extreme weather
War, terrorism, or civil unrest
Government regulations or restrictions
Carrier strikes or operational failures
Other events beyond reasonable control

Performance obligations resume when circumstances permit.

Modifications to Terms

We may update these terms periodically
Updated terms posted at www.finwatchstraps.com/terms
Terms applicable to your order are those in effect when you ordered
Material changes will be communicated via email

Severability

If any provision is found unenforceable, remaining provisions continue in full effect.

14. Your Acknowledgment

By placing an order with FinWatchStraps, you confirm that you:

✓ Have read and understood these terms
✓ Verified all specifications for your custom order
✓ Understand that custom products cannot be returned
✓ Accept responsibility for proper installation and care
✓ Understand import duties may apply for international orders
✓ Agree to these terms and conditions

Contact Information

FinWatchStraps
Helsinki, Finland

Email: info@finwatchstraps.com
Website: www.finwatchstraps.com
Customer Service: Monday-Friday, 9:00-17:00 EET

Last Updated: January 28, 2026
Version: 2.0
Effective: All orders placed from January 28, 2026

These terms are provided in good faith and designed to ensure clarity and transparency for our customers. We are committed to premium craftsmanship, excellent customer service, and fair business practices. If you have questions or concerns, please contact us - we're here to help.