RIOS1931 TULA | Genuine Russian Leather Bund Watch Strap – Cognac
Built for comfort. Crafted for character.
The RIOS1931 TULA is a premium Bund-style watch strap made from genuine Russian leather in a rich Cognac tone. Originally developed for military aviators, the Bund strap features a full leather backing pad that sits between the watch and your skin—ideal for those with metal allergies or anyone looking to preserve their timepiece in pristine condition.
What sets the TULA apart is its extraordinary leather. Bark-tanned and infused with birch oil using a centuries-old Russian technique, this material offers natural water resistance, impressive durability, and a rich, earthy aroma. It’s a strap that wears in beautifully and tells a story with time.
Behind the craftsmanship is RIOS1931, a third-generation, family-run German strap maker. Founded by Oswald Riemer in 1931, RIOS1931 has nearly a century of experience producing exceptional watch straps. They’ve mastered the balance of traditional methods and modern innovation—resulting in straps known for their beauty, durability, and refined details. One of their standout touches is the incredibly realistic embossing found on their calfskin straps, a testament to their passion for detail and quality.
Key Features:
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Handmade in Germany by RIOS1931 – Watch Straps Since 1931
- Each strap is crafted and hand stitched by skilled artisans
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Bund-style construction for added comfort and case-back protection
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Genuine Russia leather: bark-tanned and birch oil-treated
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Cognac tone with natural patina potential
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Naturally water-resistant and long-wearing
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Traditional spring bar fitment – compatible with most watches
- Dimensions: Total Length 114mm/82mm
Bund Width 42mm, Leather thickness 2.5mm
- Available in three widths: 18mm, 20mm, 22mm
Whether you're into vintage aviation style or just appreciate heritage leatherwork, the TULA in Cognac is a timeless piece of wristwear engineering.
Please note: Watches shown are for illustration only and are not included.
The RIOS1931 BUND are special order watch straps and typical delivery time is ten working days.
A Brief History of the Bund-Style Watch Strap
The Bund strap—short for Bundeswehr, the German word for "Federal Defence Force"—has its roots in military aviation. Originally developed for the German Air Force (Luftwaffe) during the 1960s and 70s, this distinctive strap design features a leather backing pad that sits between the watch and the wrist.
The purpose? Function and protection.
Military pilots operated in extreme conditions, where metal watch cases could become painfully cold at high altitudes or dangerously hot in sun-exposed cockpits. The full leather backing acted as a barrier, shielding the wearer’s skin from these temperature extremes. It also served a second role: protecting the watch case from sweat and body oils, which could corrode the case back over time—especially important for mechanical tool watches used in active service.
Bund straps gained wider recognition when NASA astronaut Paul Weitz wore one on a chronograph during the Skylab 2 mission in 1973, reinforcing its association with rugged reliability.
Today, Bund-style straps are popular with collectors and enthusiasts for their vintage military aesthetic, extra comfort, and wrist protection—making them a standout option for tool watches, field watches, and aviation-inspired pieces.
