Photo credit：https://petapixel.com/2018/01/30/story-sean-flynns-leica-m2/
War Photographer’s improvised solution turned into a timeless design.
In our design research stage, a particular historical story has greatly intrigued us: the photojournalist Sean Flynn, carrying a Leica M2 camera, participated in numerous parachute missions with the U.S. military during the Vietnam War. The camera strap for his camera was improvised in the battlefield, crafted by hand using paracord and grenade pins. He used it to capture the harsh realities of the battlefield and convey them to the world. This camera has since become highly esteemed among collectors and has served as a source of inspiration for us.
Modern Functionality x Vintage Military Aesthetics
When we read about Sean Flynn using paracord to create a camera strap and using it in his photojournalism expeditions, it inspired us to create our own paracord camera straps. We created WOTANCRAFT's first paracord x leather camera strap, showcasing our classic Vintage Tech aesthetic.
Atwood Paracord 550 features
Paracord is sturdy and durable, with UV / mold / resistance. It is a practical and versatile rope that can be used conveniently whether placed in a backpack, vehicle, garage, or clothing.
The internal structure of the paracord is woven from seven inner cores, with a tensile strength of up to 550 pounds. By pulling out the inner cores, you can turn a 50-foot paracord into a usable rope that is hundreds of feet long.
Today, paracords are widely used in outdoor adventures as well as hiking, and come in a variety of colors.
Sanded-down leather edges for comfortable wear.
We specifically used the same finishing process for the leather edges as we did with watch straps. Skilled artisans use wooden edge tools continuously rolling back and forth in this process, which demands a high level of precision and exact force to ensure that every edge is equally smooth and comfortable for long-term wear.
The leather used on the camera strap and wrist strap is deliberately chosen for its thickness and durability. It is vegetable-tanned leather that meets the rugged style reminiscent of World War II aesthetics.
Different links for different missions.
If you prefer to pair each of your cameras with their own strap, you can choose the Japanese CURA Split ring style. Each CURA ring undergoes 20 hours of polishing to ensure a smooth finish. With use, they gradually reveal the copper color at the bottom, enhancing the vintage feel.
If you use a single strap / wrist strap for multiple cameras, or needs to switch between a strap and a tripod/gimbal quickly, we recommend choosing the "Peak Design Anchor Link Quick-Release" style.
