Find the perfect fit for your MN strap
You'll need two measurements to choose the correct Erika's Originals MN watch strap: the strap width and your wrist size.
Strap width
The terms "strap size," "strap width" and "lug width" are often used interchangeably. Don't let this confuse you; they all mean the same thing. Basically, the width of the strap where it attaches to the watch lugs (the two projecting arms on the watch case) is the strap size.
To determine your strap size, try the easy way first: check the back of your current strap for an imprint that indicates the size.
If no useful information is provided on the strap, use a metric ruler or a caliper to measure the watch lug width, or the internal distance between the lugs. This measurement will be a whole number, expressed in millimeters (i.e., 20mm). If your lug width is 20mm, you need a 20mm strap.
Wrist size
To determine your wrist size, measure your wrist in inches. Use a flexible tape measure or a strip of paper to wrap your wrist where your watch would naturally sit. Mark the point where the two ends meet. If you're using paper, measure it with a ruler. That number is your wrist size.
We sell Erika's Originals MN straps in two lengths:
Regular, for wrists 6-1/4" - 7-3/4" (175mm/7.00 inch on Erika's site)
Short, for wrists 5-1/2" - 6-3/4" (160mm/6.25 inch on Erika's site)
Changing your watch strap
Consider investing in an inexpensive spring bar tool for strap changes. It can save you a lot of frustration in the long run.
Cover your work area with a light-colored towel or cloth to protect your watch, keep tools and parts from rolling away and hopefully catch any spring bars that may fly into the air. Place your watch on the towel with the back facing up; this protects the front of the watch from accidental slips or scratches. You can also wrap the lugs (avoiding the holes) with masking or painter's tape.
Remove the old strap
Removing the old strap involves a few simple steps.
- Use the forked end of your spring bar tool to expose the shoulder of the spring bar between the strap and the lug, then push the shoulder of the bar away from the lug hole towards the strap.
- Extract the bar from the hole in the lug and remove that side of the strap.
- The opposite side of the strap should fall out of the lug hole on its own. If not, repeat the process on that side.
Sometimes the ends of the spring bars are exposed through holes in the lugs. If this is the case, simply use the pointed end of your spring bar tool to push in one end of the bar until it separates from the lug.
Install your new MN strap
To install your new strap:
- Remove the strap piece from the notched metal slider.
- Place the strap over the back of the watch, with the back of the strap facing up. The notched metal slider will be at the twelve o'clock end of the watch.
- Install your spring bars over the back of the strap.
4. Insert the strap piece back into the metal slider.
5. To microadjust your strap, slide the metal keeper towards the watch to tighten, and away from the watch to loosen.
Now all that's left to do is enjoy your new MN strap. If you have any questions, contact us and we would be happy to help.
Customer Reviews
Black ops strap looks great, and isvery comfortable, on any watch!
This band is very comfortable due to the soft material, elasticity and infinite adjustability. Because it is thin and only one layer goes under the watch it does not add bulk to the wrist and the adjustability keeps it snug to the wrist. Quality seems great, although time will tell regarding durability. It is not a quick change band as you must remove the pins to install it, but I am not one to change bands until needed. As others have noted, the clasp takes some getting used to, but practice develops tricks to make it not too frustrating. It is expensive, but if it holds up it will be well worth the cost.
I have several Erika straps that I have worn for the last few years. When I purchased my Tudor FXD it was a no brainer to order one again. Great strap comfortable fit. Holben's is great to have to avoid the wait from over seas.
I’ve got many Erika’s Originals straps in multiple sizes and colors. They’re all excellent. They have a similar look to NATO straps but are much more comfortable since they have a small amount of stretch and the buckle is infinitely adjustable. At the same time they’re quite robust and hold even the largest dive watches securely. My Darth Tuna has a lugless design and regular nylon NATOs are too thick, but the Erika’s straps work fine. Highly recommended.
I wanted to find a strap to use on my Breitling Colt Skyracer which has very strange unique lugs and a strap system. This was recommended to me as a nice alternative and it is great. Very comfortable and I highly recommend it.
The NOS material is soft, elastic, and almost iridescent, in a beautiful shade of khaki that is right between brown and green; no modern MN material seems to match the color of this vintage stuff. The Erika’s stitching and hardware is a perfect complement, and a definite upgrade from the hardware you generally find on the real vintage straps. Easy to adjust, wears comfortable.
Havana looks very nice in person! Depending on the light, has very dark/blackish tones or earthy dark brown. Looks good on this Jack Mason Espresso Strat-o-timer. Very comfortable strap and always fast shipping.
Sahara in person looks incredible. Best and most comfortable strap. Fast shipping!
Two tone on my Jack Mason Strat in Espresso.
Perfect, beautiful and comfortable strap for my diver’s watch. Highly recommend it. Thank you to Holbens staff for their guidance and assurance, great service.
The strap is a bit lighter than I thought it would be, but looks so good. It’s a very light grey. If you’re looking for a darker grey, go with the Mirage. The 2 tone is so subtle and looks really great! The most comfortable straps and fast shipping!
