Watches have always been a luxury item and there are many avid collectors out there that love to catch every unique piece possible. Watch prices are certainly expensive, but for the quality you get from some brands, it’s unmatched. With this in mind, the watch face is the beautiful part, but what grasps it to your wrist is just as important. It is no secret that some watch straps are just over glam, some don’t offer enough support and then others are just not worth having at all. If there is one watch strap that stands out from them all for its style and function, it’s the classic NATO watch strap. In this article, we will go through the top reasons why you should be buying a NATO watch strap.
NATO watch strap history brief:
The NATO strap was introduced in the early 70s by the British MoD. The Ministry of Defence needed a watch strap that kept the watch intact and hold on to it even if a spring bar was broken. This is why the NATO watch strap was created; originally called the G10 due to the form that needed to be signed to have one.
There is a range of different fabric watch straps out there, but nothing compares to the OG NATO watch strap. They feature a unique design that includes a double loop under the watch face. This is because if a spring bar breaks or pops out, then the watch will still remain secure on your wrist. In tactical situations, this is essential and can be very helpful when you are in all types of landscapes and terrains. Watches were much more expensive than they are now back in the 70s, so it was essential to have a strap that kept it safe.
NATO watch straps offer great value
Watch straps can quickly add up if you like to switch your watch around for different occasions as they come in a range of materials and styles. It may surprise you that a NATO watch strap can significantly cut costs. Yes, there are top designer ones such as the Omega NATO watch strap which can cost a lot for just a simple strap with the Omega logo on it, but there are many alternatives out there that are better made for purpose such as Zulu Alpha. They provide better alternatives to the luxury brand and the best thing is that they are made from ex-military professionals, so they know what they are doing.
NATO watch straps are rugged
Watch straps come in a range of styles and materials, but not all watch straps react the same with certain elements. For example, a metal bracelet can be uncomfortable and get hot in the sun. Leather watch straps can’t be in contact with water as it ruins the integrity of the strap. They also can’t be in direct sunlight as this can make the leather too soft. This is where the NATO watch strap comes into its own element.
Due to them being made from more rugged materials such as nylon or polyester, they are much more rugged and can face all elements including water, mud, dirt and anything else that it faces which is why they were made for military watches. They don’t cut, they don’t break and if they get dirty, you can simply detach the strap from the watch and put it in the wash. These straps will literally last you a lifetime.
NATO watch straps can be stylish
One of the best features of NATO watch straps is the fact that they are interchangeable. You can easily swap out a NATO watch strap in less than 30 seconds, which makes it much more appealing to purchase a range of styles you can match with your outfit for the day. Not only are there multiple styles and patterns, but you also have a wealth of colours to choose from. They also have adapted the design for more materials being used including rubber and leather.
If you have an expensive watch and prefer to make it a little less obvious, then a NATO watch strap is an excellent choice. Sometimes, you are in areas that are not the best, so having something downplayed can help you to not show off in these deprived areas.
There are many benefits to having a NATO watch strap, but if you are after something a little bit different, then a NATO watch in the colour you choose will ensure that you have a watch that is going to last you all your life.