A Guide to NATO Watch Straps

Before we show off our top 5 favourite NATO watch straps we want to tell you a little bit about them.

NATO watch straps are single-piece straps that loop through spring bars or fixed bars that are attached to the watch case, resulting in a particularly secure watch strap. NATO straps are fitted by threading through the watch's bars. This threading method ensures that even if one spring bar fails, the watch will remain securely attached to the wearer's wrist. 

Why are they called NATO watch straps?

What do watches have to do with the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation? Well, unsurprisingly, these watch straps were initially designed by the Ministry of Defence in the UK, and while they were ‘officially’ called G10 straps on the acquisition form soldiers needed to fill in to receive one, over the years they’ve become affectionately known as NATO straps.

NATO vs Zulu

They’re not to be confused with Zulu watch straps, which are slightly thicker and only have one piece of material running under the watch case. Zulu straps also tend to have chunkier metal clasps. They are, however, very similar – just check whether there’s one piece of material under the watch or two. It’s the quickest way to determine the difference between a NATO watch strap and a Zulu watch strap.

As with choosing all watch straps the first thing to consider is the lug width of your watch. Check out our size guide which shows you how to measure the lug width of your watch. Once you've determined the lug width it's all about style. Watch style and personal style. If you prefer something subtle and minimal then a classic black or blue NATO watch strap is the perfect choice. Alternatively, why not go for something with a pop of colour if you prefer something bolder or want to match those dial details on your watch. In short, we have many options in our NATO watch strap collection so you really are spoilt for choice.

Fitting a NATO watch strap to your watch is very simple. Check out the three easy steps below.

We know that the colour of your watch strap is very much a personal thing but we’d be lying if we said we didn’t have our own favourite NATO watch straps.

- KHAKI - We just had to include the khaki style – it speaks to the origins of the strap and still looks as stylish as ever.

- BLACK/RED - Want to make a bit more of a statement? This eye-catching watch strap might not be ideal for anyone on manoeuvres behind enemy lines but it certainly looks sporty and striking!

- GREY - Understated and stylish. This would suit almost any watch face.

- BLUE - We love a bit of blue and if you do too this is the strap for you.

- BLACK - It goes with absolutely everything and who can deny a classic?

Cleaning a NATO watch strap is quick and easy. Remove the watch strap from the watch case and run cold water over the strap whilst rubbing in a gentle soap. Once the dirt has been removed, the watch strap can be rinsed in cold water and then left to air dry away from direct sunlight. Do not use hot water or a hairdryer to clean or dry your NATO watch strap.

We hope this has helped you understand just what NATO watch straps are and has given you a bit more of an idea of why you should get one for your favourite watch.