MILAN STRAPS · TEJU

Teju: the silver lizard in a strap

The teju is the lizard of South America with the largest scales I work with. Tupinambis merianae, Argentina and Brazil. The diamond pattern is immediately recognizable — and not to be confused with anything else.

The teju (Tupinambis merianae) is the silver lizard of South America. The scales are larger than those of other lizards used in leather goods: the diamond pattern is immediate, unmistakable. Vegetable tanning, controlled CITES origin from farms in Argentina and Brazil.

It is the lizard skin with the most visual presence. The scales hold up to use better than karung, the strap maintains its shape over time. With use, the luster intensifies. Available in 18, 20 and 22mm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between teju and Nile monitor?

Teju (Tupinambis merianae) has larger scales with a distinctive diamond-shaped pattern — more visible, more characteristic. Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus) has much smaller, tighter scales with an almost silky texture, a finer and more discreet appearance. If you want the leather to stand out, teju. If you want something more subtle and refined, Nile monitor.

Is teju more durable than other lizards?

Yes — the larger scales and greater thickness make teju more robust compared to karung or monitor. It's easier to work with and more durable in daily use. It's not a leather for sports or intense physical activity, but for a dress watch or an elegant watch worn in rotation, teju holds up very well over time.

Which watches does teju pair well with?

Black teju on a Cartier Tank or JLC Reverso at 18mm is the formal classic. Chocolate brown on a vintage 1960s-70s with a gold dial is my preferred pairing — the geometric scales dialogue with the watch's patina in a unique way. Forest green on a contemporary watch is for those who aren't afraid of color. I avoid teju on sports watches.

What is teju and what animal does it come from?

Teju is the Argentine lizard *Tupinambis merianae*, with diamond-shaped scales larger than any other lizard used in leather goods. The skin is vegetable-tanned in Argentina and Brazil. Available in 18, 20, and 22mm.

How do you clean and maintain a teju leather strap?

Dry cloth after each use. Teju's larger scales collect less dust than other lizard leathers. Every 2-3 months, a light application of exotic leather cream. Vegetable tanning develops shine over time — don't smother it with film-forming products.

Why do teju scales hold up better than karung?

The fact sheet doesn't contain specific data on how teju scales behave compared to karung. The only available information is that "scales hold up better than karung or finer lizard" — without explaining the mechanism. Inventing the reason would be unverified.

Can I order a custom teju strap at the Milan atelier?

Casati Milano is located at Via XX Settembre 15. At the atelier you can see the leather in person and have your watch measured. For an appointment, just write on WhatsApp.

How does teju leather age with daily use?

Teju develops patina with use. The scales — thicker than other lizards — hold their shape without giving way. On an 18mm in chocolate brown, after months of daily wear, the texture dialogues with the watch dial's patina. The character doesn't fade: it intensifies.

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