Introducing JU Self-Developed Alligator Leather After Three Years of R&D

We proudly announce the international debut of JU's self-developed alligator leather, a breakthrough originally achieved in June 2022 after three years of rigorous research and development. While the innovation has already been applied within JU’s alligator collections, this marks the first official unveiling to the global market. This new self-developed alligator leather addresses long-standing challenges in the alligator strap industry—poor water resistance, cracking, and discoloration—setting a new benchmark for performance and longevity.

Industry Background

From 2017 to 2019, the luxury strap industry faced significant challenges. The market was flooded with inferior alligator hides, leading to straps that cracked, lost color, or deteriorated when exposed to water. By late 2019, these issues became widespread across the industry. While many strap manufacturers chose to compromise and accept material limitations, JU took a different path.

Commitment to R&D

Instead of yielding to flawed materials, JU redefined its mission: to engineer a new standard of alligator leather. In early 2020, the company partnered with multiple tanneries and initiated extensive testing, setting three uncompromising goals—anti-cracking, color fastness, and water resistance. Over the next two years, JU oversaw countless prototypes, lab tests, and material refinements, steadily pushing the boundaries of traditional tanning techniques.

Breakthrough Results

By June 2022, JU achieved its milestone: a proprietary alligator leather that not only met the original three goals but surpassed expectations by adding odor resistance, enhanced durability, and abrasion resistance. The material retains the luxurious texture and elegance of natural alligator while offering unmatched reliability for long-term daily wear.

Quote from JU

“We refused to accept the industry’s compromises,” said Bruce, Founder of JU. “Our vision was clear: collectors deserve straps that match the longevity and prestige of their timepieces. This innovation proves that craftsmanship and material science can work hand in hand to redefine what alligator leather can be.”

Looking Ahead

With this achievement, JU has set a new benchmark in the exotic strap category. And now we are expanding the application of our proprietary alligator leather across global markets, reaffirming its commitment to innovation and uncompromising quality.