#ProjectPhoenix
#ProjectPhoenix
The Return of the Original MOD Strap
An Official Collaboration Between Phoenix and AKIO Watches
A Legacy Forged in Function
Since 1978, Phoenix has been the name behind the original nylon watch straps issued to British service members. Built to exact Ministry of Defence specifications and made entirely in the UK, these were never fashion accessories. They were tools of service - worn in war zones, on dive missions, and in daily military life.
Each strap carried with it a story of grit, duty, and the enduring values of British manufacturing.
Why Now?
After more than 40 years, Mike Steward - the man behind Phoenix - was preparing to retire. Production was winding down. But as demand remained strong, some unscrupulous overseas companies stepped in, using the Phoenix name to sell low-quality knock-offs.
It didn’t sit right.
These weren’t made in the UK. They weren’t connected to Phoenix. And they didn’t honour the legacy that had been built over decades.
As a long-time supporter and stockist, I (Seb from AKIO Watches) reached out to Mike. We discussed the idea of continuing Phoenix straps the right way - with respect for their heritage and no compromise on quality.
Mike agreed - with two clear conditions:
- Everything must be made in the UK
- Quality must match or exceed the original standard
Getting There
That was the start of Project Phoenix.
Rebuilding the supply chain was no small task. The original nylon mill had closed. The looms required were old shuttle looms - closer to something from the industrial revolution than modern production.
Over the past 11 months, we’ve sourced, tested, travelled, and prototyped. Hundreds of emails. Countless meetings. Trips across the UK.
The result? The Phoenix MOD strap is back - produced once again with a fully UK-based supply chain and finished to the same exacting standards as always.
What This Is
This isn’t a rebrand or a reboot.
It’s a continuation of something real.
- Authentic MOD-spec straps
- Nylon woven in traditional British mills
- Hand-finished in the UK
- No sweatshops
- No shortcuts
- No nonsense
With Mike’s blessing, Phoenix will continue - in small batches, sold exclusively through AKIO Watches. Mike gets to focus on what he loves: making proper straps. And we handle the rest - marketing, fulfilment, and keeping the lights on.
If you’re a collector, a veteran, or someone who simply values kit made with care - this project is for you.
Still made in the UK. Still the real thing.
Join us.
#ProjectPhoenix
@akiowatches