How and Where Erika’s Originals MN Watch Straps Are Made
For watch enthusiasts who value precision, comfort, and heritage, Erika’s Originals Marine Nationale (MN) straps offer a unique combination of history and modern craftsmanship. Designed for active wear, these handmade watch straps from Spain suit sports, diving, and everyday watches, appealing to collectors seeking both function and subtle elegance.
Origins and Inspiration
Based in Valencia, Spain, Erika’s Originals began as a personal project. Erika crafted her first MN strap for her husband, a vintage DOXA collector. She used repurposed parachute elastic to recreate the classic Marine Nationale watch straps originally invented by French naval divers to pair with their military-issued Tudor watches in the 1960s and 1970s. That early endeavor combined historical authenticity with modern functionality, laying the foundation for a boutique brand respected for quality and attention to detail.
MN Strap Models
The MN strap lineup caters to collectors with distinct preferences:
Original MN Strap: Available in over 85 color combinations, this versatile design suits a huge variety of watch styles.
Vintage MN Strap: Crafted from rare, 40–60-year-old elastic webbing sourced from decommissioned parachutes, featuring a subtle yellow or red centerline.
SWICK MN Strap: Developed in collaboration with the U.S. Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewmen (SWCC) to meet precise military specifications.
NASA MN Strap: Complete with an engraved NASA logo on the buckle, this model honors the MN strap that traveled aboard the International Space Station.
Issue Number MN Strap: Hand-printed with the original French parachute issue number “300638-0” in black, referencing the heritage of the Marine Nationale straps.
FXD MN Strap: A special configuration to fit the Tudor Pelagos FXD and other watches with fixed lugs.
Comfort and Durability
Made from non-fraying endless weave elastic (two perfect sides!), MN straps feel soft yet secure against the wrist. The woven texture allows breathability, while reinforced stitching ensures long-term durability. Over time, elastic watch bands conform to the wrist, offering a subtly personalized fit without compromising shape or strength. Collectors consistently note MN straps’ reliable performance in active environments: from daily wear to outdoor adventures, they support even the beefiest watches.
Historical Highlights
Durability and reliability are part of the brand’s legacy. In 2018, a vintage parachute elastic MN strap from Erika’s Originals accompanied a custom pilot’s watch to the International Space Station, returning safely aboard a Soyuz spacecraft. Read more about the adventure in this article by Brice Goulard in MONOCHROME magazine.
Style and Versatility
MN straps adapt seamlessly to a wide range of timepieces. Their combination of tactile quality, color variety, and subtle aesthetics allows collectors to personalize watches for different occasions. For NATO-style strap alternatives or other options, see our textile watch bands collection or our selection of vegan straps. Guidance on sizing is available in our watch strap care guide.
Attention to Detail
Every MN strap reflects careful craftsmanship: reinforced edges, 100% hand-stitched lines, and a thoughtfully woven texture create both durability and comfort. Over time, MN straps develop a subtle, individualized fit that enhances the wearing experience while maintaining a refined, understated presence.
Collector’s Statement
Heritage-inspired design, meticulous construction, and resilient materials make MN straps a statement of subtle quality. Their versatility, reliability, and refined presence appeal to collectors seeking timeless accessories that complement both vintage and modern watches.
Learn more about what goes into the manufacture of Erika's Originals handmade MN watch straps in this video hosted by Erika and the Swiss watch company Oris (along with Ted, the Oris Bear).
Watch Erika discuss her production process, filmed in Valencia, Spain, in partnership with Oris.
Key Takeaways: Erika’s Originals MN straps bring together heritage, comfort, and style in every handmade piece. Crafted in Spain from durable elastic, these straps conform perfectly to your wrist while complementing any watch. Ready for daily wear, sports, or diving, MN straps offer collectors a timeless, versatile watch accessory option. Shop the Erika's Originals MN watch strap collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Erika’s Originals MN straps waterproof? The woven elastic resists moisture and dries quickly, making them ideal for diving and everyday use.
Do MN straps fit any watch? Yes, they’re compatible with most lug widths. Special configurations are available for Apple watches and fixed-lug models.
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