IT'S HERE! The extraordinarily beautiful and highly coveted Horween Color #8 Shell Cordovan!
Do a search on this color, and you'll find it's the one shell cordovan enthusiasts are fanatical about.
Very rare, exquisite shells with an amazing depth of color are now available for you.
Beyond any doubt, the most incredibly beautiful leather I've ever seen seen...and I've seen many.
Premium Hides:
Genuine Shell Cordovan, Black
Genuine Shell Cordovan, Vintage Oxblood
Genuine Shell Cordovan, Limited Edition Color #8
Professional Baseball Glove Leather, Natural Tan (Limited):
Professional Baseball Glove Leather, Black:
Antique Maduro Calfskin from 1966 (Limited):
Dark Navy Calfskin:
Europelli Handmade: Creating Your Masterpiece
Premium Hides, Length, width, stitch color, keeper arrangement and special treatments
First, select the premium hide that appeals to you most. Next, go through this checklist and consider the following:
1. Length and Width: Select the length that you prefer and the width your watch requires. Currently, we are offering 18x81mm, 19x19mm, 20x20mm, 21x21mm, 22x22mm, 24x24mm, and 26x26mm straps in any length. Just ask if you are in need of a width other than these.
2. Stitch Color: Consider the 16 different stitch colors from which to choose. To the best of my knowledge, more than anyone else currently making custom straps! The most popular colors right now are: Vintage Patina, Titanium, Bronze, Natural, Black, and White.
3. Keepers: How do you like your keepers? 1 sewn in and 1 floating? 1 wide floating? 2 floating? Constructing a strap with 1 sewn in keeper and one floating is the most difficult and time-consuming, but it's also "standard equipment" on a Europelli Handmade strap. Why? Because I think that's the right way to do it. However, if you prefer an alternative, just let us know and consider it done. Our goal is to make it the way YOU want it!
4. Adjustment Hole Placement and Quantity: Unless otherwise specified, we hand punch 5 holes - the first one having a dead center 50mm from the lug end. However, we can accommodate any adjustment hole placement request that will offer you the best fitment. We really don't like the look of "one strap fits most", where there are 6 or 7 unnecessary holes in otherwise beautiful leather.
5. Special Treatments: Hand burnished and sealed sides will be part of every strap we build. However, there are a few optional treatments that can dramatically enhance the appearance of your strap. Flame toasted top edges and/or keepers, as well as our special "JV" Distressing treatment are a few to consider. The end result is pretty spectacular! This is where you can truly create your one-of-a-kind strap.

The Foundation of Quality Begins With The Finest Hides
Every single hide we offer from our Custom Handmade section originates from one of the world's finest tanneries:
Horween Leather Co.
One signficant advantage we have over our competitors is based on our close proximity to Horween Leather Co. They are a 5th generation family owned tannery, based in Chicago for 105 years. Every single hide we offer within our handmade section has been personally hand-selected by myself, with the firm belief that the foundation of quality MUST begin with the finest leather money can buy.
There will never be an exception to this rule, so take great pride in knowing your finished strap originated from genuine Horween crafted leather.
Professional Baseball Glove Leather
The exact same leather that is used by the world's leading professional baseball glove manufacturers to produce both first baseman's and catcher's gloves. Until recently, we had been sold out of the Natural Tan Professional Baseball Glove leather for nearly 2 years. It is truly difficult to obtain, particularly when compared to all of the so-called "military inspired" straps that are in seemingly endless supply. 2 YEARS!
Absolutely incredible in person, the look, feel, and color are simply outstanding. And if you are looking for a strap that will develop a beautiful patina, just think about what a catcher's glove looks like after it's been well-worn. No other strap on the market will achieve a superb golden glow like this one.
Legendary while it was available from us 2 years ago, we have been contacted by over 200 customers asking when it would be available again. That time is now - and it's far and away the best version ever since it will be custom crafted and tailored to your specifications!
The Ultimate Strap Is Now Available in Your Choice of Natural Tan or Black
24mm Natural Tan Professional Baseball Glove
Triple-Twisted Brown Cord
Standard Stitch Pattern
Keepers: 1 Sewn in, 1 Floating
Flame Toasted Top Edges & Keepers
Hand Burnished and Brown Stained Sides
24mm Natural Tan Professional Baseball Glove
Triple-Twisted Olive Cord
Standard Stitch Pattern
Keepers: 1 Sewn in, 1 Floating
Hand Burnished and Brown Stained Sides
Sewn In Flat GPF Style Buckle
Each adjustment hole is individually hand-punched and can be placed exactly where you want them.
Click on any photo to enhance detail
Dark Navy Calfskin
Triple-Twisted Dark Mustard Cord
Standard Stitch Pattern
Keepers: 1 Sewn in, 1 Floating
Black Stained Edges
Gold Screw In Pre-V Buckle
Select from what I believe is the most extensive library of extremely high-quality triple twisted cord stitching. All of the custom straps are saddle stitched entirely by hand. Yes, it's a lost art because it's very time consuming - but it's also the very method if you appreciate durability and character.
© Copyright 2011 Europelli.com
All rights reserved
Price Menu, Sizing, Ordering, and Delivery Times
Ala-Carte Services Will Personalize Your Strap, While Our Dedication To Service Will Put It On Your Wrist Quickly
Prices on our 100% Handmade straps will vary, depending on the leather and treatment options you select. Below you will find our Price Menu that will cover the most popular options:
Ala-Carte Tailoring Options:
Keepers: 1 sewn in, 1 floating
Stainless Steel Sewn In Pre-V or GPF Buckle
Has the same effect as stain on wood, darkening and highlighting colors.
The finished look is one that is more rustic and weathered.
XXL Straps with a total length of 220mm or greater
Price:
$15
Complimentary - one of our signature attributes.
$15
$10
Free This Month!
$15
$10
Phone or E-mail for a quote
Suggested Guidelines for Selecting The Proper Length:
"Suggested" is the key word here. Some may prefer a longer "tail" end of the strap, others may want the buckle to sit more toward the inside of the wrist rather than in the center. The chart below will help determine the minimum length to order for a proper fitment. If you're unsure, just order the next longer size or give us a call and we'll be glad to help. You wouldn't believe how much easier it is to add an extra hole, if necessary, as opposed to subtracting 10mm off a finished strap. :-)
How To Place An Order and Delivery Times:
Domestic Clients Within The U.S.:
Quite honestly, I would much prefer a simple telephone call from clients within the U.S. In a day and age when we rely on e-mails practically as much as oxygen itself? Yes. The two of us can discuss any questions you may have in far greater detail, we can cover every aspect of your handmade strap, and it's much more efficient. Plus, frankly, one area that seems to effect delivery times from various strap makers is getting bogged down with e-mails. I'd like to avoid that from the beginning. That said, if communicating by e-mail is more convenient for you, then by all means send me one. I'll reply quickly and with all of the answers to any questions you may have.
(219) 309-9694
Telephone hours are: Monday - Friday: 8:00am - 8:00pm CST (Chicago)




Saturday: 9:00am - 5:00pm CST
Voicemail: 24hrs a day, 7 days a week. Simply leave your name and telephone number and in most cases we will have your call returned within minutes if it's during the hours above.
International Clients Outside The U.S.:
Of course, I don't expect our international friends to make an extra-long distance phone call - nor do I want possible language barriers hindering your order. We can be e-mailed from any page on the Website by clicking on one of the Contact Us buttons.
Delivery Times: Anything that is 100% crafted by human hands will require more time than something made on a machine. However, our commitment to outstanding service does not end with your initial order. Our goal is to have your new strap completed within 10 business days and to have it on your wrist in less than 14. There are some times when this will be reduced, and far fewer times when it will be increased. We'll have an accurate completion date for you when your order is placed.

Your Wrist Measures:
6.0 - 6.5 inches
6.5 - 7.0 inches
7.0 - 7.5 inches (most popular)
7.5 - 8.0 inches
8.0 - 8.5 inches
Thank you so much for considering a Europelli 100% Handmade strap. At Europelli, complete satisfaction is our premier focus. It is evident within every strap we craft and sincerely expressed to every client we serve.
If you ever have questions, please don't hesitate to ask. It's always a pleasure and privilege to serve your needs.
With much passion,
Europelli
Suggested Starting Point:
120 x 70mm
125 x 75mm
130 x 80mm
135 x 85mm
140 x 90mm
26mm Natural Tan Professional Baseball Glove
Special "JV" Distressing Treatment
Triple-Twisted White Cord
Standard Stitch Pattern
Keepers: 1 Sewn in, 1 Floating
Hand Burnished Natural Sides
Simply outstanding on anything with a black, brown or tobacco dial.
This strap in 26x26mm is amazing on a PAM232!
This is an incredible strap! The color, subtle texture, versatility...there's nothing else like it.
This is an amazing strap for any number of 47mm watches. If you prefer something more refined, consider having the edges stained black or brown.
A stunning combo, indeed!
1. White
2. Antique White
3. Natural
4. Khaki
5. Vintage Patina
6. Bronze
7. Brown
8. Olive
9. Yellow
10. Mustard
11. Soft Orange
12. Titanium
Creative color combinations can offer
a dramatic but logical presentation.
13. Logo Blue
14. Navy Blue
15. Rustic Red
16. Black
A wide selection of high quality buckles enables you to further tailor the look and feel of your custom handmade strap. From screw type to sewn-in, curved to flat, Stainless Steel to Titanium, or even PVD to Gold, there's something for every requirement. Screw Type Ardillon, aka Thumbnail buckles, are also available.
Precision Screw Type Pre-V Buckles
Click any photo to enhance detail
316L Stainless Steel
Polished or Brushed Finish
22, 24, 26mm
ARD "Thumbnail" Buckles
are also available in 24mm
$25 with a strap purchase
Titanium
Brushed Finish
22, 24mm
$30 with a strap purchase
Black PVD
Matte Finish
22, 24, 26mm
$25 with a strap purchase
Gold
Polished Finish
22, 24mm
$35 with a strap purchase
Pre-V Curved
Polished or Brushed Finish
22, 24, 26mm
$20 with a strap purchase
FREE This Month!
Click any photo to enhance detail
Historic GPF Flat
Polished, Matte (shown), PVD Finish
24, 26mm
$20 with a strap purchase
FREE This Month!
Historic GPF-Mod Dep
Semi-Matte Finish
Click photo to view the front side
Reverse side inscription is shown above.
24, 26mm
$30 with a strap purchase
FREE This Month!
PVD
Matte to Semi-Matte Finish
Curved: 22, 24, 26mm
Historic GPF Flat: 24mm
$20 with a strap Purchase
FREE This Month!
Genuine Shell Cordovan
Without Question, The World's Finest Leather.
Genuine Shell Cordovan
Black
Triple-Twisted Titanium Cord
Tight Stitch Pattern Shown
Keepers: 1 Sewn in, 1 Floating
Black Stained Edges
Screw Type Stainless Steel Buckle
Genuine Shell Cordovan
Oxblood
Triple-Twisted Vintage Patina Cord - NEW!
Tight Stitch Pattern Shown
Keeper: 1 Wide Sewn in, per request
Brown Stained Edges
Screw Type Stainless Steel Buckle
Free Sewn In Buckles With Every Custom Handmade Strap This Month!
24mm Natural Tan Professional Baseball Glove
Glove Oil Treated
Triple-Twisted White Cord
Tight Stitch Pattern
Keepers: 1 Sewn in, 1 Floating
Flame Toasted Top Edges & Keepers
Hand Burnished and Brown Stained Sides
Sewn In PVD Buckle
24mm Natural Tan Professional Baseball Glove
Glove Oil Treated
Triple-Twisted White Cord
Tight Stitch Pattern
Keepers: 1 Sewn in, 1 Floating
Hand Burnished Natural Sides
Sewn In Curved Pre-V Buckle
This combination looks fantastic on
any watch with a LumiNova dial!
Horween® is a registered trademark of the Horween Leather Co.
Badlands
When seeing the full hide, this instantly reminded me of the parched earth at Badlands National Park. Massive in both texture and appeal, beautiful in its reddish brown color.
Khaki
This leather is amazingly supple and has a fantastic feel. The color is light and fresh, perfect for wear in the Spring and Summer!
Terra Cotta
This gorgeous leather offers a light golden brown base, with slightly darker browns mottled throughout. This is more tan/brown in color than the Tuscany leather, and produces a streamlined 3.0mm finished strap.
Cigar
This leather has an ultra smooth surface and has slightly darker striations throughout. Again, another hide that requires zero break in. Cigar is a fine Pull-Up leather that will reveal lighter shades when stretched or pulled.
Tuscany
This color is reminiscent of those you would see in a Tuscan villa. This is a smooth leather with a magnificent feel of quality. It is also more golden in color than the Terra Cotta leather, and can produce a 5.0mm or under finished strap - based on your specifications.
Mahogany
Another hide that has some subtle texture that adds interest, with slightly more red tones than the Badlands and Cigar colors.
The New Additions!
Superior quality, beautiful colors, amazing texture and feel - all from one of the finest tanneries on the planet.
Obviously, with the exception of the Badlands calfskin, these straps have not been completed. However, that's by design.
I've received a few e-mails from customes who mentioned how difficult it can be to visualize a stitch color other than the one in a photo. So, since the leathers are fresh and new, I thought I'd give you a fresh canvas to work with.
Click on any photo to enhance detail
Click on any photo to enhance detail
Save $35.00 to $65.00 on many custom handmade straps during this sale!
Genuine Shell Cordovan
Limited Edition Color #8
Triple-Twisted Bronze Cord
Tight Stitch Pattern Shown
Keeper: 1 Wide Sewn in, per request
Black Stained Edges
Screw Type Stainless Steel Buckle
24mm Black Professional Baseball Glove
Triple-Twisted Green Cord
Standard Stitch Pattern
Keepers: 1 Sewn in, 1 Floating
Hand Burnished Sides
Click on any photo to enhance detail
Antique Maduro Calfskin from 1966
Only a limited number of straps can be made.
Various Stitch Colors Available
Standard Stitch Pattern Shown
Standard Keepers: 1 Sewn in, 1 Floating
Hand Burnished Sides







The Limited Edition 360
This strap was created with one very specific purpose: To enhance and compliment the Panerai PAM360.
Starting with Natural Tan Professional Baseball Glove leather as the foundation, the hide is then manipulated by hand to achieve a very close, if not perfect match to the unique luminous material used on the hands, markers, and numerals on this very special watch. The original strap that came with the 360 has a natural cut edge, and this strap
shares that same spirit.
The strap is then completed with black stitching, using the premium tight hand stitch pattern, a sewn in PVD buckle to compliment the dial and case, and 1 sewn in keeper while the other is floating. The end result is a spectacular presentation that takes this remarkable piece to the next level.
These will be made in limited numbers and will be made exactly as you see it pictured above. However, you can select the length, how the keepers are made, along with the placement and how many adjustment holes are used.
Special Sale Price:
$145




100% Custom Handmade To Your Specifications
Free Sewn In Buckles With Each Custom Strap This Month!
100% Custom Handmade To Your Specifications
Genuine Shell Cordovan
Black
Triple-Twisted Vintage Patina - NEW!
Tight Stitch Pattern Shown
Keepers: 1 Sewn in, 1 Floating
Black Stained Edges
Screw Type Stainless Steel Buckle
Genuine Shell Cordovan
Oxblood
Triple-Twisted Natural Cord
Tight Stitch Pattern Shown
Keepers: 1 Sewn in, 1 Floating
Brown Stained Edges
Screw Type Stainless Steel Buckle
Genuine Shell Cordovan
Limited Edition Color #8
Triple-Twisted Brown Cord
Tight Stitch Pattern Shown
Keepers: 1 Sewn in, 1 Floating
Brown Stained Edges
Traditional Stainless Steel Buckle
Welcome to Europelli Handmade
Your vision and complete satisfaction. Our amazing leathers, craftsmanship, outstanding value, and dedication to you. That's what a Europelli 100% Handmade strap is all about.
For the past year we have been working on a special project to custom craft artisan straps for our loyal customers. This means that each strap will be individually handmade to your specifications. You select the length, width, stitch color, keeper arrangement, adjustment hole placement and more. Europelli Handmade is the brand, Custom Craft is the service. If someone asks where you got your magnificent strap, just tell them it's a Europelli Handmade.
As I mentioned, each strap is 100% handmade. There is no machinery involved whatsoever. Each stitch hole is hand punched, each stitch is hand sewn using the very best and old-school method of saddle stitching - as opposed to an inferior lockstitch that a sewing machine is limited to. Each strap is hand burnished, hand skived, and each keeper is made (both adhered and stitched) for the strap it is destined for, thus ensuring the proper fitment. Our "standard equipment" strap has a minimum of 37 different legitimate steps within the crafting process and a typical length strap has over 7 feet of cord, requiring 105 individual hand stitches.
The hides, cord (stitching), and tools we use are the best of the best. All of the leather we use for our handmade straps are produced by one of the finest tanneries in the world, located an hour from myself here the U.S. Each and every hide is hand selected, never ordering from a mere swatch. It's my belief that you absolutely must begin with a superior foundation, the leather itself, if you want to craft a world-class strap.
We searched for cord stitching that has anti-fray, anti-fade, and high tensile strength qualities - and found it. Our precision hand tools are made by the finest in the leather industry: Weaver, Al Stohlman, and C.S. Osborne & Co. The special cobbler's adhesive we use is permanent and flexible, yet environmentally friendly.
While some of the above information may be more than you require, I believe each individual component plays an integral role in the recipe for the final product and your overwhelming satisfaction.
There are no shortcuts to quality. Ever.
100% Handmade Straps Crafted To Your Specifications. Create Your Masterpiece.
What's different about a Europelli Handmade Strap?
Old-School Craftsmanship, Distinctive Style, 100% Handmade Offers Strength and Character
It's my hope that you'll find our strap unique in several ways. First, I don't think you would look at one of our straps and confuse it with one made by someone else. Not that some others don't make a fine strap, there are several who are outstanding at what they do - and I admire and commend them for that. However, it's the construction method and the styling we've chosen that I think you'll find distinctive to us - and complimentary to the Panerai style we specialize in.
A Europelli Handmade strap will most certainly make a handsome addition to your Panerai watch, regardless of its historic or contemporary nature. Today's Panerai's are much more refined than the watches produced several years ago. However, many collectors still long for an attachment to their rustic and historic roots. They want to keep in sync with their original DNA, if you will. Our handmade straps make perfect sense in that respect, as well as others.
Our straps are refined, but not overly so. They are not dressy, nor are they strictly vintage looking - although we have a few treatment methods that can achieve that look perfectly. Your personal instructions on how to craft the strap will help create the look you desire. If you request something that we just don't feel comfortable with, we'll let you know and then suggest some alternatives.
Saddle stitching by hand: The time-honored benchmark for stitching of any kind. I can't stress enough how important this is to adding both strength and character to the finished piece. Old-school saddle stitching by hand requires several things: Over 7 feet of cord in your average length strap, two harness needles, two hands, a keen eye, and...frankly...lots of time. What's so great about a saddle stitch? It offers both strength and character. First, the stitching won't unravel if one were to be cut like a lockstitch provided by a sewing machine. Secondly, it is a much stronger stitch by nature which is why it has become the gold standard for all things handmade. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, it adds character to the finished piece. It's not perfect, yet it is not flawed. Each strap will vary slightly from one to the other, making each a one-of-a-kind in its own subtle way. A double needle hand saddle stitch offers a very unique look that is utilized on very few products in this day and age that have given a nod to machine stitching and faster production. This time-consuming method of stitching plays an incredibly vital role in crafting an item that is distinctively made by human hands. So, how does one identify a strap that was stitched by machine? The top stitch is usually at a slight angle, and almost always a much thinner more fragile thread is used on the underside. If a product claims to be 100% handmade, yet machine stitched, know that at least one compromise has been made - including their definition of 100%.
Are there any downsides to a hand saddle stitch? No, although an experienced operator of a machine can sew a strap in about 90 seconds compared to about 45 minutes when saddle stitching by hand. However, there's the pride in ownership and the pride in craftsmanship factor that can't be denied.
Everyone wins.
The world's finest leather. Period. It's as simple as that.
Genuine Shell Cordovan is most rare and coveted. While many leathers originate from cows, genuine shell cordovan comes from a horse. The “shell” is the subcutaneous layer that covers the posterior (rear end). Each horse provides two shells, which is just enough for a pair of shoes. Genuine Shell Cordovan is the most non-porous leather known, and is not constructed of strands. This unique physical nature translates into two attributes: Shell Cordovan is the only leather that will not wrinkle, and it is inherently water-resistant to a very high degree. Genuine Shell Cordovan is distinguished by its lustrous waxy finish, superior durability, and the ability to readily conform and retain shape. In this instance, the shape of your wrist.
Today, high volume production and fancy technology are powerless in its manufacture. Old school handwork is the only way to produce it. The shells are put through a natural tanning process, then hand-stained, glazed, and finished. I've seen it in person, and the time and patience required is quite amazing. While most leathers tan for one month in a chromium sulfate solution, genuine Shell Cordovan leather requires a full six months of natural vegetable tanning. It’s these things that account for the unrivaled quality and expensive nature of true Shell Cordovan leather. In the leather industry, it's the pinnacle of old world artistry. Only two tanneries in the world still produce it - Horween Leather Company in Chicago being the undisputed finest. Their primary customers are top-shelf shoe manufacturers who, ultimately, end up selling the finished product for $525-$700 and well beyond.
A word to the wise: The word “cordovan” is many times misused as a generic term, and is usually meant to describe a particular color. Kind of like “Xerox”. That’s why I’ve used the word “Genuine” over and over again, because the word “cordovan” alone doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s the true article.
Expect your Europelli Genuine Shell Cordovan strap to take on a rich patina that only improves with wear and polishing, and for it to offer you years and years of enjoyment with proper Care & Maintenance. Please read the Care & Maintenance section for details on how to properly feed this unique leather.

"Hello Drew,
The strap arrived today and I am very pleased with it. The high quality of the leather and workmanship are very obvious. I look forward to wearing the strap on my Omega Speedmaster. Thank you for making this possible."
Mort S.
USA
"First, let me say that I can't believe my straps arrived so quickly! The three baseball glove straps I ordered and received yesterday are nothing short of perfection. I'm serious. I probably have 35 straps that I've acquired over the past few years from various strap makers...none of which compare to these in terms of overall quality and attention to detail, including my build instructions. I love the different treatments you offer...so cool. These are just extraordinary, they're exactly what I've been searching for, and you can bet that I'll be back for more. Thanks so much...working with you has been a wonderful pleasure and it's made me get excited about straps all over again!"
Robert D.
USA
"Just a quick note to let you know that the straps arrived today and they look great! While I haven't put them on yet, the high quality of materials and workmanship stand out clearly. In a time when mass-produced, cookie cutter garbage designed to appeal to the lowest common denominator are the norm, it's nice to know that some people still care enough to achieve excellence . . . I can't wait to see what else you come up with!
Thanks again and best regards,"
David S.
USA
"Just wanted to inform you that my straps arrived yesterday. Thank you for such exquisite straps! Even my original IWC Portuguese leather straps is no match. I'm really amazed by the details, the stitching is so neat. Side burnish also adds character. Wonderful!!!! Really wonderful piece of art. I will definitely order more from you in the future!
Best Regards,"
Robby C.
Indonesia
"The stap arrived today and it is absolutely amazing. What a work of art. Tthe watch i bought it for is still being built or I would have included a photo. You do amazing work and i can't wait to wear it!"
Gerald N.
USA
"Just a quick note to say how delighted I am with the two new straps which I've just received from you. Owning many straps, from many makers, I have to say that they represent great value for money and compare very favourably with straps from more expensive sources. Couple this with second-to-none customer service and you can't go far wrong. I'll certainly be back for more. Thanks again for the great straps and customer service!"
Tim Marsden
Spain
"Hello Drew,
I managed to pick up my new straps the other day. Wonderful! Both straps are as good as anyone could wish for - they look good, fit perfectly and are beautifully made. To say I am pleased is a major understatement. I have now fitted the Baseball and it looks terrific - makes it look as though I've got a completely new watch. Keep up the good work and add me to your list of very satisfied customers. Thank you so very much."
Andrew R.
United KIngdom
**Click on any photo to enlarge the image for greater detail and color accuracy**
**Click on any photo to enlarge the image for greater detail and color accuracy**
"Dear Drew,
Two words. Holy Crap! The Shell Cordovan Oxblood with Vintage Patina stitch combo is absolutely stunning! The contrast is just subtle enough to make this combo elegant, yet sporty, and looks perfect on my 000. I appreciate all the time you spent helping me decide on this combo and am proud to be the first to sport it. This, along with my natural baseball glove strap, provide all the versatility I need...for now. Again, my sincere thanks for a masterpiece strap and outstanding service."
Mike Sidor
USA