The term ‘military watch straps’ is often broadly applied to one-piece straps, but a closer look reveals a fascinating variety, each with its own origins within different military branches of the military in a wide variety of countries. Historically ground troops have relied on the NATO strap or it’s US variant, aircrew on the other hand prefer the Bund Strap and divers opted for either standard NATO straps or in some countries naval divers have operated for a very specialised strap often referred to as the Parachute Elastic strap or ‘Marine Nationale’ strap. These military straps all share a common heritage of necessity-driven design, offering practicality and functionality. The straps were first used with a watch made by Tudor but we also used on the ELVIA and various other watches used by the French military.

The Origins of the Parachute Elastic Strap

The origins of the Parachute Elastic strap can be traced back to the 1950s. While some divers purchased resilient Perlon straps made of woven nylon fibres, others creatively repurposed the elastic straps from their reserve parachute bags. These elastic straps, often khaki-green with a yellow stripe, although also made in a wide variety of other colors were flexible, resilient, and comfortable over a wetsuit.

The metal elements on the parachute bag were also repurposed for the strap’s hardware: the keepers and hook clasp. Essentially, a long strip of elastic material is folded over itself at the halfway point. Here, the metal hook is stitched into place. A metal loop is fitted over both loose ends, providing an anchor for the hook. The loop slides freely along the strap’s length, making it easy to adjust for a perfect fit. Comfortable and practical, the strap was made from issued material and was therefore a cost-effective solution for the divers.

Premium Parachute Elastic Straps

Our Parachute Elastic Straps replicate the vintage Marine Nationale strap, making them perfect for summer wristwear and an ideal partner for dive watches. Crafted from premium elastic, the tight weave of the material is soft to the touch yet rugged and strong. Available in several colours, the strap that most closely resembles the original is our Khaki Green/Yellow Stripe Elastic Strap. Additional color options available currently of due to be added to the range include Khaki versions with Red and White Stripes, Black, Grey, and Navy Blue. Featuring brushed stainless-steel hardware, the hook clasp stays true to the original vintage design. All the designs are manufactured in 20mm and 22mm widths.

Advantages of Parachute Elastic Straps

There are many reasons for customers to opt for a parachute elastic strap:

• Unmatched Comfort: Many people claim it's the most comfortable strap they've ever experienced. It fits so well, you barely notice it.
• Sweat and Odour Resistant: The elastic wicks away sweat almost instantly and absorbs no odour.
• Washable: Simply pull it through, wash, and pull it back through.
• Infinite Adjustability: The strap is infinitely adjustable, allowing for a snug or loose fit as desired. Adjusting is effortless.
• Secure Fit: Once on, the strap remains firmly secured to the wrist with no flipping, twisting, or moving. The watch stays centered and secure, eliminating movement up and down the wrist.
• Enhanced Security: The strap's design helps keep the watch safe, reducing the risk of loss due to spring bar failure.
• Affordability: Parachute Elastic Straps are an affordable option allowing for easy access to a new look.
• Stylish Colour Options: Great color choices allow for matching with dials. The central stripe can highlight a feature on the dial, such as the color of the seconds hand or a complication, or simply add a splash of color.

Installing a Marine Nationale strap may seem challenging at first, similar to how some people struggle with NATO straps due to their length which can seem quite baffling until you realise how it's fitted and worn. The same applies with parachute elastic watch straps once you know how it's done, the process is very straightforward. It's important to note that these straps cannot be used on watches with fixed solid bars.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2X26pc3TlWk the first time we saw one of the straps here, a few years ago, even though we are very familiar with straps in general it took a bit of figuring out but once you know how it's done, it could not be easier.