SKU: 3118915281

20mm Elasticated French Navy and Special Forces Strap in Maroon

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Description

20mm Elasticated French Navy and Special Forces Strap in MaroonMilitary Watch Straps: A Legacy of Functionality and Design 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 in different military branches across various countries. Historically, ground troops have relied on the NATO strap or its U. S. variant, while aircrew have preferred the Bund Strap. Divers, on the other hand, have used standard NATO straps,

Military Watch Straps: A Legacy of Functionality and Design

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 in different military branches across various countries. Historically, ground troops have relied on the NATO strap or its U.S. variant, while aircrew have preferred the Bund Strap. Divers, on the other hand, have used standard NATO straps, though in some countries, naval divers have operated with a highly specialized strap known as the Parachute Elastic Strap, or Marine Nationale strap.

All military straps share a common heritage of necessity-driven design, offering practicality and functionality. The Parachute Elastic Strap was first used with a Tudor watch, but it was also seen on ELVIA and various other watches used by the French military.


The Origins of the Parachute Elastic Strap

The Parachute Elastic Strap dates back to the 1950s. Some divers purchased Perlon straps made of woven nylon fibers, while others resourcefully repurposed the elastic straps from their reserve parachute bags. These elastic straps—often khaki-green with a yellow stripe, though also available in various other colors—were flexible, resilient, and comfortable when worn over a wetsuit.

The metal components from the parachute bag were also repurposed for the strap’s hardware, including the keepers and hook clasp. The design was simple yet effective:

  1. A long strip of elastic material was folded at the midpoint, where a metal hook was stitched into place.
  2. A metal loop was fitted over both loose ends, serving as an anchor for the hook.
  3. The loop slid freely along the strap’s length, allowing for easy adjustment and a perfect fit.

Comfortable and practical, these straps were made from issued materials, making them a cost-effective solution for military divers.


Premium Parachute Elastic Straps

Our Parachute Elastic Straps replicate the vintage Marine Nationale strap, making them ideal for summer wristwear and a perfect match for dive watches. Crafted from premium elastic, the material is tightly woven, resulting in a strap that is both soft to the touch and incredibly strong.

Each strap features brushed stainless steel hardware, including a hook clasp that stays true to the original vintage design. Our designs are available in 18mm, 20mm and 22mm widths.


Advantages of Parachute Elastic Straps

Customers choose Parachute Elastic Straps for several reasons:

  • Unmatched Comfort: Many users claim it's the most comfortable strap they've ever worn—it fits so well, you barely notice it.
  • Sweat and Odor Resistant: The elastic wicks away sweat instantly and absorbs no odor.
  • Washable: Simply remove the strap, wash it, and reattach it.
  • Infinite Adjustability: The strap allows for a perfectly snug or loose fit, depending on preference. Adjustments are effortless.
  • Secure Fit: Once in place, the strap remains firmly secured, preventing flipping, twisting, or movement. The watch stays centered on the wrist.
  • Enhanced Security: The design minimizes the risk of losing the watch due to spring bar failure.
  • Affordability: Parachute Elastic Straps offer a cost-effective way to refresh your watch’s look.
  • Stylish Color Options: The variety of color choices allows for coordination with watch dials. The central stripe can highlight a dial feature, such as the seconds hand, a complication, or simply add a touch of color.

Installing a Marine Nationale Strap

Installing a Marine Nationale strap may seem tricky at first—similar to the initial challenge of fitting NATO straps due to their length. However, once you understand how it works, the process is straightforward.

The first time we came across one of these straps a few years ago, despite being very familiar with watch straps in general, it took a bit of figuring out. However, once we understood the technique, it couldn’t have been easier.

For those new to fitting these straps, the process can seem confusing at first, but this video provides a clear demonstration: How to Install a Marine Nationale Strap

It's important to note that these straps cannot be used on watches with fixed solid bars.

Marine Nationale straps share many advantages with NATO straps but achieve a similar function in a different way. They are especially popular among military personnel who prefer them over ballistic nylon straps to avoid snagging. Consequently, we offer various straps made from the same material used in these original French military designs.

Shipping Notes
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Exchange/Return Notes
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  • Final sale items are not eligible for returns or exchanges.
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SKU: 3118915281

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Marie Phillips
Alexandria, US
★★★★★ 4
Durable Chew Toy That Actually Holds Up to Strong Jaws
Size: Large, Color: Bundle
This is a reliable option for a heavy chewer, especially for a large breed with a strong bite. The material feels tough and well-made, and it stands up well to consistent chewing without immediately breaking down like softer toys tend to do. It also gives a bit of dental benefit by helping reduce plaque and tartar buildup during play, which is a nice bonus since brushing isn’t always realistic. The textured surface keeps it interesting enough to hold attention for a while, and it doesn’t splinter or create a mess. Overall, it’s a solid, durable chew toy that works well for strong chewers who tend to destroy most standard toys quickly.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 6, 2026
J
Verified Purchase
Justina Stone
Phoenix, US
★★★★★ 5
Ergonomic good, material so, so
Size: Large, Color: Wishbone
Nice ergonomic, but the plastic come off and dog chew it. I had rather have a stronger material adequate for bigger dogs.
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Reviewed in the United States on April 30, 2026
M
Verified Purchase
Myah Meyers
Alexandria, US
★★★★★ 3
Love it, nice for tough chewers, split in half during play
Size: X-Large, Color: Textured Ring, Size: X-Large, Color: Textured Ring
LOVE THIS PRODUCT, would’ve gotten 5 stars but i threw it for my dog and it split in half on contact with the floor. It had lasted us well over 5 months, it’s not his favorite toy but he’ll pick it sometimes, i wouldn’t say it’s unsafe in half just don’t give the smaller parts!
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Reviewed in the United States on December 18, 2025
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Verified Purchase
Jh
Los Angeles, US
★★★★★ 5
Dogs love them
Size: X-Large, Color: Textured Ring
Great for aggressive chewers . hold up well
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Reviewed in the United States on April 26, 2026
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Verified Purchase
Sarah Hood
Birmingham, US
★★★★★ 5
Great for power chewers
Size: Large, Color: Bundle
Nothing beats Nylabone!!! Our lab has destroyed everything else… even the extra durable black kongs. Finally a chew toy that is super durable and great size.
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Reviewed in the United States on June 12, 2026

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