In The Flesh: Panerai Straps

I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again, the Paneristi are some of the most devoted and enthusiastic collectors out there today. After further analyzing what it is about Panerai that truly speaks to these individuals, it dawned upon me. The Panerai community has greatly encouraged the concept of making your watch your own, so to speak, which gives collectors a significant say in how their watch ultimately wears. How would one do this, you ask? Easy. Straps. Anyone who has just slightly dabbled in the world of Panerai knows there are countless aftermarket straps out there, which definitely reinforces the idea that finding your favorite reference is only half the battle. Upon purchasing my first Panerai, I immediately ordered a nice selection of shoes from Di Stefano, Wotancraft, and Vintager Straps, and I must say, I was quite impressed. Without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the products that’ve helped contribute to somewhat of a strap addiction.

Di Stefano

First, we’ve got Di Stefano Straps. This Italian family has a long history of supplying and producing leather products going all the way back to 1899, so they’ve certainly got some experience under their belt. The family business is now run by Simona Di Stefano, who combines her expertise with leather and her tenure with Panerai to produce some of the most accurate Pre-V style straps around. I had the chance to try out the DS146 Pre-V strap in Vacchetta, and I definitely took notice of the sheer quality of the leather used, along with how similar it was to the OEM straps of the early 90’s, which are now prized by collectors. I can confidently say that this look provides the perfect dosage of nostalgia, while still boasting a significant amount of refined details.

Vintager Straps

Next up, we’ve got Vintager Straps, the project of Napa native Micah Dirksen. These made in the USA creations are 100% hand made, and exude a rugged, no-nonsense vibe. I had the chance to try out a substantial reddish-brown strap, along with a chocolate sharkskin example, and a military green canvas option. Each strap was beautifully finished, and a great deal of care was taken in ensuring that. What I personally like best about Micah’s work is — with his wide selection of hides, buckle choices and styles — he’s capable of making just about anything you could think up. It’s really a full bespoke strap making experience.

Wotancraft

Last, but most definitely not least, is Taiwanese atelier Wotancraft. If you’re looking for something rugged, something that looks like it could’ve just come off the wrist of an Italian diver, this is it. Through the use of both standard and ammo leathers, the folks over at Wotancraft have been able to accurately recreate iconic, box-stitched straps that we’ve seen on the wrists of frogmen in the 40’s. I personally couldn’t get this one off my wrist, and with good reason. It’s unapologetically thick, tastefully distressed, and does not go unnoticed by any means. In my opinion, their straps are the perfect companion to any PAM 372.

At the end of the day, the best advice that I can give is buy what speaks to you, and buy what compliments your watch well. With the seemingly endless number of strap makers out there, you’ll always be stumbling upon new, interesting hides, that have been reinterpreted by different craftsmen. Lastly, pace yourself, as one must remember that only one strap can be mounted at a time!

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