❤.1.Question: Is it just the buckle?

❤.1.Answer: yes

❤.2.Question: How does it open？

❤.2.Answer: There's a little lever on the side that swivels. Just swivel it up or down and the belt slides out the same way it slides in. The buckle doesn't “open,” per say. You slide the belt through the end and slide it out the same way.
It's kind of like a zip tie that you can reuse. Very easily by lifting a knob at bottom of buckle

❤.3.Question: Do you need a specific type of belt for this or does the ratcheting mechanism work with plain leather belts?

❤.3.Answer: Works fine with any other ratchet leather belts which has teeths on the back side . but make sure the belt was created for a ratchet belt buckle.
Just open the ratchet buckle teeth. Insert the leather belt and close the ratchet teeth. Easy 1 2 steps

√Material:Zinc Alloy
√Size:7.8x4cm,8.5x4cm
√Type:Ratchet Automatic Belt Buckle
√Suitable for belt strap:3.3-3.5 cm Width

★.Belt buckles are Made of high quality zinc alloy, coated with high-density chrome or matte finishes, higher-end elegant! Advanced Ratcheting Mechanism ensures the daily use of the ratchet belt is not easy to fall apart.
★.Elegant metallic luster,the man's light and elegant full display.And the low key connotation is a kind of man's great charm.
★.Care: Wiping carefully with dry cloth to maintain the belt's brilliance. Do not use chemical or abrasive cleaners.
★.A fashion leather dress belt is dotted with our casual ratchet automatic buckle to add some shine to your dress. Accessorize yourself to show your sense of style.Different Slide buckles styles for both dress and casual occasions.