I can't see the damage in the photos from when I originally bought it, but they're crap, so could have been there and now gotten worse. Though I do think I'd have noticed it when changinf straps quite a few times.

Laser welding - not sure that can work for this type of damage. I've already contacted a couple of experts to see, should hear back next week.

Was not aware the reference were never produced with lug holes... is that a fact? I just can't imagine why one would drill through in all lugs... doesn't make sense to me.

Too bad, it's a real beauty otherwise, and I do hope to get it sorted out.