MILAN STRAPS · KARUNG

Karung: the Javanese snake that becomes a watch strap

The karung – Acrochordus javanicus, the Javanese water snake – has small, regular scales with an almost ceramic-like texture. Slim on the wrist, it immediately adapts. It does not add thickness under the case.

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Karung is the skin of the Javanese file snake — Acrochordus javanicus. Small, regular scales, with an almost ceramic texture that no other snake leather replicates. Vegetable tanned. Each strap has a unique, biologically unrepeatable scale pattern.

Thin, light leather that does not add thickness under the watch case. It adapts to the wrist from the first week. Available in 18, 20 and 22mm. CITES Appendix II certified, from controlled farms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is karung the same as python?

No — they're two different snakes with very different characteristics. Karung (Acrochordus javanicus) has small, regular scales with an almost ceramic texture and an orderly appearance. Reticulated python has much larger scales with a characteristic diamond pattern. Karung is finer and thinner, better suited for elegant, low-profile straps. Python has more visual presence.

Is karung fragile?

It's thin, not fragile — the distinction matters. The structure of karung scales is abrasion-resistant, but the reduced thickness means it requires precise construction and quality lining. A well-built karung, worn on a dress watch in rotation, lasts years. The limit is water: like all snake leathers, it dislikes prolonged moisture.

Which watches do I pair karung with?

Black karung on a Cartier Tank or JLC Reverso at 16-18mm is the classic. Tobacco brown on a vintage '60s watch with a gilded dial is less obvious but very successful. Natural, undyed karung — sand and gray — is the most interesting choice for something original. I avoid karung on sports watches or integrated-case pieces.

How do I clean and care for a karung strap?

Karung is water-sensitive. After each wear, I pass a dry cloth over the scales following their natural direction. No aggressive products — the almost ceramic texture of the scales becomes dull with solvents or alcohol. Specific conditioning every 6-8 months. The thin leather doesn't forgive maintenance mistakes, but responds well to consistent care.

Can I order a made-to-measure karung strap from the Milan atelier?

Karung is built in-atelier, in Milan, Via XX Settembre 15. You choose the leather together, verify the fit on your watch. By appointment only — via WhatsApp or contact form.

What is karung and which animal does it come from?

Karung is the skin of the Javanese water snake (*Acrochordus javanicus*). Small, regular scales with an almost ceramic texture. It's worked in vegetable tanning and cut in 18, 20, and 22mm widths.

Does karung handle wrist moisture or should it stay away from water?

Karung is water-sensitive. Wrist moisture over time stresses the scales more than other leathers. For daily wear at 18 or 20mm, dry with a soft cloth after wearing. Avoid prolonged exposure.

The next step

The right strap isn’t chosen. It is built, together.

From the atelier appointment to delivery, every step is made for those who know that things done well take time. Rare leathers, one piece at a time, eighteen months of warranty.

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What we offer

  • We guide you through every step — with exclusive images directly from our atelier
  • Over 50 artisanal steps for each strap — from leather selection to final stitching
  • The time it takes to do extraordinary things — four, five weeks. Not a day less.
  • An object designed to last a lifetime — cared for by us for eighteen months
  • The right leather for your watch — chosen together, in the atelier, only for you

By appointment only · Milan