Watch strap making isn’t just limited to major brands and big shops; across the world there are small strapmakers making a living designing unique and custom straps. Our small brand spotlight series interviews these strapmakers to see what makes them tick.
Our second interview is with Andrea Tugas, a bespoke strapmaker in Chile who owns Martu Leather. For all our interviews, check out our Custom Watch Strap Maker Page.
Name: Martu Leather, run by Andrea Tugas
Website: http://www.martuleather.com | Etsy Shop
Location: Chile
What: Custom leather and canvas watch straps and bands, including exotic leathers.
![](https://basicbands.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/martu-leather-omega-speedmaster-brown-strap.jpg)
How did you get into watch strap making?
When I was a little girl I remember my dad taking care of his watch collection. That’s how I learned to love watches, especially big watches. But I always had problems with the straps. When I tried to wear them they were too big for my wrist, so I started making my own straps, after that I start making straps for my friends and then in the middle of a pursuit for a different way of life I left my office job and opened up my web shop.
What materials do you use in your bands?
Mainly calf, but I also use exotic leathers such as alligator, ostrich, python and stingray.
What is your favorite material to work with?
Calf. It looks good, lasts long and gets old super nice.
![](https://basicbands.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/black-martu-leather-strap.jpg)
What is the most difficult watch strap you’ve had to make?
A customer sent me a small patch from his dad’s WWII pilot jacket to make a strap. Besides the difficulty of making the strap, the most important thing was to make it right without damaging the patch. I knew this was an irreplaceable piece of personal heritage so I had to be super careful, the final product was great.
Do you have a favorite watch? What watch would you buy if you had the money?
No, I have a lot of favorite watches, it will be selfish to pick one. Most watches reflect a time and state in your life, as today if I have the money I will love to have the pam690.
Featured Picture: Tudor Black Bay Watch on a custom Martu Leather Strap
Also check out our other guides:
- How to Safely Purchase a Watch Online
- List of reputable watch strap companies & brands
- Tools for Replacing A Watch Strap Or Band
- How to Pick Out The Right Watch Band For Your Watch
- 5 Tips For Picking Out A New Watch Band Or Strap
- The Complete Guide to the Orient Bambino Dress Watch
- Seiko SNK Watch Guide
- Seiko Presage Cocktail Time Guide
- How to Fix A Broken Loop On Your Watch Strap
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