FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions on Straps, Sizes and Materials
Answered by Antonio Zichichi, founder of Milano Straps since 1984.
Sizes and Compatibility
How do I find the right lug width for my watch?
The lug width is the distance in millimetres between the watch's two lugs. You can measure it with digital callipers, or use our Watch Finder: a database of over 45,000 references that gives you the exact measurement for Rolex, Omega, Panerai, IWC, Tudor and many others.
Which strap fits a Rolex Submariner?
The Rolex Submariner (ref. 114060, 116610, 126610) has a lug width of 20mm. Have a look at our 20mm straps category or, for precise compatibility, the Watch Finder.
Which strap fits a Panerai Luminor?
The Panerai Luminor Base, Marina and Due have a lug width of 24mm. It is Panerai's most characteristic size. See our selection of 24mm straps.
Which strap fits a Tudor Black Bay?
The Tudor Black Bay 41mm has a lug width of 22mm. The Tudor Black Bay 58 has a lug width of 22mm (39mm version). See the 22mm category.
What does "taper" mean in a strap?
The taper is the difference between the lug width and the buckle width. A "20/16mm" strap is 20mm wide at the lugs and narrows to 16mm at the buckle end. The taper affects wrist comfort and overall appearance. Read the glossary entry.
Materials
What is the difference between belly cut and hornback in alligator?
Belly cut uses the scales from the reptile's belly: more regular, softer, with a deep natural sheen. It is the cut favoured by high-end watchmaking. Hornback uses the scales from the back with a central bony ridge: a more striking, three-dimensional appearance. Find out more on the Alligator material page.
What is Horween shell cordovan?
Shell cordovan is the leather obtained from the membrane of the horse's hindquarters, vegetable-tanned for over six months. Horween Leather Company of Chicago (founded in 1905) is the world's leading producer. It is the leather that develops the most lasting patina: it improves with use rather than degrading. Read the full guide to Shell Cordovan.
Do exotic leather straps have CITES certification?
Yes. All our straps in alligator, crocodile, ostrich and python leather are CITES certified (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species). Each piece has full traceability from the Italian tannery. Read what CITES certification is.
What is the difference between vegetable tanning and chrome tanning?
Vegetable tanning uses natural plant-based tannins. The process takes weeks or months. The resulting leather is initially stiffer, but develops a patina with use and improves over time. Chrome tanning is quicker and cheaper, producing a more uniform leather that tends to degrade without developing character. Read the glossary entry: Vegetable Tanning.
Order and Shipping
What is the difference between Milano Straps and Casati Milano?
Milano Straps is the prêt-à-porter line: artisan straps available in stock, orderable online, shipped within 48h, 12-month guarantee. Casati Milano is the haute couture line: a made-to-measure strap after a visit to the atelier in Milan, with an 18-month guarantee including replacement of linings and stitching for wear. Discover Casati Milano.
How long does an artisan leather strap last?
With ordinary care (no prolonged water exposure, occasional leather cream): a shell cordovan strap lasts 10–15 years. A vegetable-tanned alligator belly cut strap: 5–10 years. A quality calfskin strap: 3–5 years. Read the full guide.