As with all leather
bands, it will wear and age with use. I never had a problem with mine going 'ripe' but it did get a stressed leather look after some time. Mine has not dry rotted and I wore it day and night for over a 6 month period, including swim classes and daily showers.
The elastomer bank will fit the TI, however changing
bands is not easy. Best to bring it to a jewler or wrist watch
band shop.