Singapore-based watch-strap maker Delugs has developed an integrated wrist strap specifically for the Audemars Piguet x Swatch Royal Pop pocket watch, with prototypes complete and sample production imminent as of June 2026 [1, 2, 3].

The project began immediately after the Royal Pop watch was announced on May 12, 2026, with Delugs quickly moving to design a strap that would fit the watch’s unique detachable ceramic case. The Royal Pop collection launched globally four days later, on May 16, 2026, offering eight designs priced between $535 and $570 depending on configuration [1, 2, 3].

Delugs co-founder Ken Kuan, age 33, said they felt pressure to be first to market after publicly announcing the project on May 13. "There was a lot of pressure when we first announced on May 13 that we were starting this project. We kind of got caught up in the race to be the first to market," he said [2].

Unlike standard watch straps, Delugs’ design connects directly to a custom case to avoid gaps. This accommodates the Royal Pop’s "pop in, pop out" ceramic case intended for wear on lanyards or as a pocket watch. The startup has produced 3D-printed prototype cases and is testing materials to balance durability, flexibility, and a snug but comfortable wrist fit [1, 2, 3].

Ken Kuan explained the reasoning, saying, "We really wanted to do this because we knew the demand for wearing the Royal Pop would be so high. While as a concept item, it’s nice to have a pocket watch or a bag charm, the reality is that a watch belongs on a wrist," highlighting the market opportunity [1].

Delugs has sourced two Royal Pop units at inflated resale prices after missing initial retail drops amid global launch chaos. Despite an email waiting list of around 10,000 sign-ups, the company is not taking pre-orders yet and is focused on delivering physical samples first [1, 2, 3].

The company is also documenting the development process as an educational effort to counter widespread AI-generated mock-ups online and to engage interest from the global watch community [3].

Delugs expects to complete sample production and launch the strap product imminently, with wider availability anticipated in the coming weeks [1, 2].