Our first recycled watch strap – a sustainable revolution

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, environmentally conscious consumer choices are becoming increasingly important. Recycling is no longer just a chore, but a central and voluntary part of many consumers' everyday lives.

This trend doesn't stop at watch straps either – they're actually ideal for recycling. Watch straps are often made of robust materials that can be easily reused . And that's precisely why the traditional brand Rhein Fils exists.

In collaboration with Tide Ocean SA, a specialist in high-quality plastic recyclates , the brand's first sustainable watch strap was created: the Tide M. Tide Ocean SA collects plastic waste from the oceans and transforms it into valuable granules and yarns. These yarns, manufactured according to the dtex standard, are used in many industries – from clothing to furniture.

What makes the Tide M so special? The Tide M is unique on the watch strap market. Rhein Fils partner Tide Ocean fishes plastic waste out of the ocean and uses it to create 100% recycled granules and yarns. These products are then used in the manufacture of the watch straps. The yarns comply with the dtex standard, are durable, and versatile. The Alcantara lining ensures a high level of comfort. The Tide M is available in blue and anthracite, and in three different widths.

In this article, we're devoting ourselves entirely to this bracelet, which has now made a name for itself among eco-conscious watch lovers . We'll explain the production process step by step – and show you the impact you can have on the environment with your purchase.

The production of the watch strap

The journey of the plastic used in our watch straps begins in the ocean, where Tide Ocean collects ocean-borne plastic before it can pollute coasts or islands . Tide Ocean then processes the plastic into pellets and yarns.

For this purpose, the collected plastic is first thoroughly cleaned and then mechanically recycled – a process developed by Professor Daniel Schwendemann and his team . This process regenerates the plastic's molecular chains, resulting in a high-quality, durable raw material. These granules and yarns are then dyed and processed into watch straps. Finally, the strap is covered with Alcantara, a high-quality microfiber fabric, to ensure maximum comfort.

The advantages of recycled plastic

Recycled plastic offers immense environmental benefits – especially compared to conventional plastic:

• Less waste: The use of ocean-bound plastic reduces ocean pollution and saves fossil resources.
• Less energy: The mechanical recycling process uses less energy than producing new plastic, reducing the carbon footprint.
• Longer durability: Recycled plastic is also extremely durable and hard-wearing, which extends the lifespan of the products.

And the best part: This sustainability doesn't compromise quality in any way . On the contrary, the recycled plastic meets the highest standards and offers excellent properties such as density, formability, and elasticity. The advantages of our recycled plastic compared to conventional plastic can be seen in the table below:

The Tide Ocean watch strap

Our Tide M watch strap represents a successful combination of sustainability, design, and functionality . It is the result of a sophisticated recycling process that transforms ocean-bound plastic into a high-quality accessory.

The Tide M watch strap is currently available in two elegant colors : blue and anthracite. You can also choose between three different widths, allowing you to optimally attach your recycled plastic strap to different watch models:

• Lug width: 18 mm; Clasp: 16 mm
• Lug width: 20 mm; Clasp: 16 mm
• Lug width: 22 mm; Clasp: 18 mm

Alcantara was chosen for the interior lining. Alcantara is a luxurious microfiber fabric known for its comfort and durability. This not only ensures a pleasant wearing experience but also an attractive appearance. It demonstrates that sustainability and high-quality design can truly go hand in hand.

The Tide M strap also boasts impressive technical features. The recycled plastic offers extremely high water and UV resistance , so you can wear your watch strap while swimming, exercising, and in all weather conditions without any problems.

And: Compared to conventional watch straps, the recycled material offers just as much, if not greater, longevity and durability . The following table provides an overview of all the technical details:

Sustainability and responsibility

Rhein Fils has always been committed to sustainability and environmental awareness . With the Rhein Fils Tide M watch strap, the brand is taking a significant step toward a more environmentally friendly future. Every purchase of the watch strap supports its mission and demonstrates that conscious consumption is not only possible, but can even be stylish and high-quality.

The future also looks promising. Rhein Fils is continuously working to further expand its range of sustainable products . Designers are working on innovative solutions to integrate even more recycled materials into production.

Our goal is not only to promote environmental protection but also to always offer our customers, and thus you, the best quality . So stay tuned for further innovations that will not only beautify and protect your wrist, but also our planet.

Our partner, Tide Ocean SA, plays a major role in this process. Tide Ocean SA is an impact-driven company that embraces true sustainability . Thanks to Tide Ocean, plastic waste in the oceans , which would otherwise endanger beaches and marine life, benefits an important cause: the preservation of biodiversity and complex ecosystems.

Not only the environment benefits from this work, but also the local people. Creating jobs and paying fair wages are central aspects of their philosophy. Tide Ocean supports local communities and is committed to social security and education.

With their joint efforts, Rhein Fils and Tide Ocean are setting a strong example for sustainability and social responsibility . Every customer who chooses the Tide M watch strap becomes part of this important movement and contributes to a better future.

Conclusion: Why you should choose our recycled watch strap

If you want to contribute to environmental protection without sacrificing quality and comfort , you essentially have only one option: choose the Tide M watch strap.

Made from 100% ocean-bound plastic , this eco-friendly watch strap made from ocean plastic actively contributes to reducing plastic waste in the oceans. The Alcantara lining ensures exceptional comfort and a sleek look. Conscious consumption without compromise.