Why JU Develops Our Own Alligator Leather
In 2017, the Chinese market was flooded with low-cost alligator leather of uncertain origin. Straps made from these leathers often cracked, faded, or absorbed water after only a short period of use. For watch lovers in China, finding a good-quality alligator strap has become nearly impossible. At the same time, the finest alligator hides were tightly controlled by foreign monopolies, leaving no access for us to truly top-grade croc/alligator leather.
Faced with this reality, JU made a defining choice: rather than compromise, we would create our own. From raw material to final finish, we set out to develop a high-performance alligator leather that met the highest standards. This was not just a technical challenge, but a mission — to give collectors and watch lovers a strap worthy of the timepieces they cherish.
See How Our Leather Stands Out
Color Fastness |
Waterproof |
Tensile Strength |
|
---|---|---|---|
JU’s Standard |
Both dry and wet wipes can reach 1000+ times | Level 10 | 100N |
HerXXs HCP |
Both dry and wet wipes can reach 500+ times | Level 9 | 100N |
Alligator Leather Produced in EU & US |
Both dry and wet wipes can reach 150+ times | Level 5 | 50N |
Data Source: Third-party accredited testing agency, JU Leather Research Institute
Every Excellence, Tested to Perfection
JU's Leather Research Institute
Industrial Alcohol Wipe Test
Simulates exposure to sweat and other acidic or alkaline liquids in daily life.

JU Alligator Leather
Remains flawless after alcohol wipe
Conventional Alligator Leather
Noticeable color loss after alcohol wipe
Water Resistance Test
Simulates everyday water contact such as washing or rain.

JU Alligator Leather
Water does not penetrate the leather at all
Conventional Alligator Leather
Leather fully absorbs water
Extreme Tensile Strength Test
Withstands over 100N of force to prevent strap breakage and watch drops.

Extreme Tensile Strength Test
Simulates friction from sleeves, desks, and daily wear.

Friction Test
JU Standard : Withstands 3,000 friction cycles
Other Brand: Withstands 1,000 friction cycles
Leather Folding Test
Replicates repeated bending from frequent wearing and removal.

JU Alligator Leather
No cracking along the grain, even when folded anywhere.
High-Intensity UV Test
Simulates long-term sun exposure that can cause fading or cracking.

JU Alligator Leather
No fading after 72+ hours of strong UV light.
3 Years, 4 Months — A Journey to the Finest Alligator Leather
6 Key Advantages of JU Alligator Leather