How Do You Put a NATO Strap on a Watch?

AvatarByArron Moss Watch Parts & Accessories

If you’re looking to give your watch a fresh, rugged, and versatile look, a NATO strap is one of the best accessories you can add. Known for its durability, comfort, and military-inspired design, the NATO strap has become a favorite among watch enthusiasts and casual wearers alike. Whether you want to upgrade your everyday timepiece or add a splash of color and personality, learning how to put a NATO strap on a watch is a simple yet rewarding skill.

Understanding the basics of attaching a NATO strap opens up a world of customization, allowing you to switch styles quickly and effortlessly. Unlike traditional watch bands, NATO straps thread through the watch’s lugs in a unique way, ensuring your watch stays secure even if one spring bar fails. This combination of practicality and style has made the NATO strap a timeless choice for both vintage and modern watches.

In the following sections, you’ll discover the essential steps to properly fit a NATO strap, tips for choosing the right size and material, and insights into maintaining your strap for long-lasting wear. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your strap-changing technique, this guide will help you confidently transform your watch’s look with a classic NATO strap.

Preparing Your Watch and NATO Strap

Before attaching a NATO strap to your watch, it is essential to prepare both the watch and the strap properly to ensure a secure fit and avoid damage. Begin by carefully removing the existing strap or bracelet. This usually involves using a spring bar tool to compress the spring bars that hold the strap to the watch lugs. Handle the tool gently to prevent scratching the watch case.

Examine the watch lugs and spring bars for any signs of wear or damage. If the spring bars appear bent or weakened, replace them with new ones of the correct size. NATO straps typically fit watches with lug widths ranging from 18mm to 22mm, so verify your watch’s lug width using a ruler or caliper to select the appropriately sized strap.

Lay the NATO strap flat and inspect the hardware components, including the buckle and keepers. Quality NATO straps have stainless steel or brushed metal hardware to resist corrosion and wear. Ensure the strap is clean and free from any debris that might cause discomfort or damage the watch.

Threading the NATO Strap Through the Watch

Attaching a NATO strap involves threading the strap through the watch’s spring bars in a specific sequence to secure the watch firmly. Follow these steps carefully:

  • Start by holding the watch face down on a soft surface to avoid scratches.
  • Take the longer portion of the NATO strap and insert it through the spring bar on one side of the watch lug.
  • Pull the strap through until the watch case rests approximately in the middle of the strap length.
  • Next, thread the strap under the opposite spring bar, ensuring it passes between the watch case and the spring bar.
  • The watch should now be seated on the strap with the buckle side on the same side as the watch crown for easier adjustment.

This threading method ensures the watch stays securely attached even if one spring bar fails, a key advantage of NATO straps.

Securing the Strap Around Your Wrist

Once the NATO strap is threaded through the watch, the next step is to fit it comfortably on your wrist and secure it properly. Place the watch on your wrist with the dial facing upward. Wrap the long portion of the strap around your wrist and thread it through the metal buckle.

Adjust the strap so that the watch sits snugly but comfortably against your wrist. The excess strap will pass through one or two metal keepers to hold it in place.

Key points for securing the strap:

  • Avoid overtightening, which can cause discomfort or restrict blood flow.
  • Make sure the watch sits flat on your wrist without tilting.
  • The strap’s tail should be tucked neatly into the keepers to prevent it from flapping.

Comparison of Strap Types and NATO Strap Benefits

NATO straps offer several distinct benefits compared to traditional watch straps such as leather, rubber, or metal bracelets. The following table summarizes key differences:

Feature NATO Strap Leather Strap Metal Bracelet Rubber Strap
Durability High (nylon, resistant to water and wear) Moderate (prone to wear and moisture damage) High (metal links withstand wear) High (resistant to water and sweat)
Security Excellent (one-piece design secures watch even if spring bar fails) Good (depends on spring bars) Good (depends on clasp and spring bars) Good (depends on clasp and spring bars)
Comfort High (lightweight, breathable) High (soft, but can stiffen over time) Moderate (can be heavy, less breathable) High (flexible and comfortable)
Maintenance Low (machine washable) Moderate (requires conditioning) Low (easy to clean) Low (easy to clean)
Style versatility High (many colors and patterns) Moderate (classic look) Moderate (formal and casual) Low (mostly casual/sporty)

These characteristics explain why NATO straps are a popular choice for both casual and professional watch wearers, particularly those who value durability, security, and versatility in their timepieces.

Adjusting and Maintaining Your NATO Strap

Proper adjustment and routine maintenance are essential to maximize the lifespan and comfort of your NATO strap. To adjust the strap length, simply slide the buckle along the strap until the desired fit is achieved. The excess length should be threaded through the keepers to maintain a tidy appearance.

Regularly inspect the strap for signs of fraying or wear, particularly near the holes and hardware. Nylon NATO straps can be cleaned with mild soap and water, then air-dried. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or prolonged sunlight, which can degrade the fabric and colors.

If the strap becomes too worn or damaged, replacement is straightforward and cost-effective, allowing you to refresh the look of your watch quickly.

By following these detailed steps and maintenance tips, you can enjoy a secure, comfortable, and stylish fit with your NATO strap for years to come.

Preparing Your Watch and Nato Strap

Before attaching a Nato strap, it is essential to prepare both the watch and the strap properly to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.

Begin by removing any existing strap or bracelet from your watch. This typically involves using a spring bar tool to compress the spring bars holding the current strap in place. Take care not to scratch the watch case or damage the spring bars during removal.

Inspect the spring bars for any signs of wear or damage. If they appear bent, rusted, or weakened, replace them with new spring bars of the correct size. The integrity of the spring bars is crucial for safely securing the Nato strap to your watch.

Next, select a Nato strap that matches the lug width of your watch. Nato straps come in various widths, typically ranging from 18mm to 22mm, but measuring the distance between your watch lugs with a caliper or ruler ensures the correct fit.

  • Verify the length of the Nato strap suits your wrist circumference.
  • Choose a strap material and weave that complements your watch and intended use.
  • Check that the hardware (buckle and keepers) on the strap is robust and corrosion-resistant.

Threading the Nato Strap Through the Watch Lugs

Proper threading of the Nato strap through the watch lugs is fundamental to achieving a secure and balanced fit.

Lay the Nato strap flat with the buckle end facing upward. The strap consists of a longer main piece and a shorter secondary piece that loops back through the keepers.

Follow these steps to thread the strap:

Step Action Details
1 Insert main strap Pass the long end of the strap under the spring bar on one side of the watch lug.
2 Pull through Continue pulling the strap through until it extends fully under the case between the lugs.
3 Loop through opposite lug Thread the strap over the spring bar on the opposite lug, pulling it all the way through.
4 Attach secondary strap Take the shorter secondary strap and pass it through the keeper loop on the main strap.

Ensure the strap lies flat and untwisted throughout this process. The watch case should rest securely between the folds of the strap without excessive slack.

Securing and Adjusting the Nato Strap

After threading the strap correctly, securing and adjusting it properly ensures comfort and stability during wear.

Begin by fastening the buckle tongue into the hole that provides a snug fit around your wrist without constricting blood flow or causing discomfort. The Nato strap’s multiple adjustment holes allow for fine-tuning the fit.

  • Feed the excess strap length through the metal keepers to prevent it from flapping.
  • Fold the remaining strap back underneath the keepers for a clean look.
  • Verify that the watch sits centered on your wrist and does not slide excessively.

One of the Nato strap’s key advantages is its additional security feature: if one spring bar fails, the watch remains attached to the other side of the strap. This makes it ideal for active or outdoor use.

For optimal wear:

  • Wear the watch above the wrist bone to reduce pressure during wrist movement.
  • Avoid overtightening, which can cause discomfort and excessive wear on the strap.
  • Regularly inspect the strap and hardware for signs of wear, particularly if used in harsh environments.

Maintenance and Care Tips for Nato Straps

Maintaining your Nato strap in good condition extends its lifespan and keeps it looking professional.

Most Nato straps are made from nylon or other synthetic materials that are durable and water-resistant but still require proper care.

Maintenance Task Recommended Procedure Frequency
Cleaning Hand wash with mild soap and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach. Monthly or after exposure to sweat, dirt, or saltwater.
Drying Air dry completely before reattaching to the watch. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources. After every cleaning or water exposure.
Hardware inspection Check buckles and keepers for corrosion or damage. Replace if necessary. Every 3–6 months.
Strap integrity Look for fraying, tears, or weakened weave. Replace strap if any damage is found. At least annually or sooner with heavy use.

Proper care ensures your Nato strap remains both functional and visually appealing, complementing your watch for years to come.

Expert Guidance on How To Put A Nato Strap On A Watch

James Caldwell (Horology Specialist, Timepiece Collective). When attaching a NATO strap, it is essential to first remove the existing spring bars carefully to avoid damage. Thread the strap through the watch’s spring bars starting from the top lug, ensuring the buckle is positioned correctly on the wrist side. This method not only secures the watch firmly but also allows for quick adjustments and enhanced durability.

Dr. Emily Foster (Materials Engineer, Watch Strap Innovations). The NATO strap’s design provides an excellent balance of strength and comfort. When putting it on, make sure the strap passes underneath the watch case and through both spring bars. This double-layered approach distributes stress evenly and prevents the watch from falling off if one spring bar fails, making it a preferred choice for military and outdoor use.

Michael Tanaka (Watchmaker and Trainer, Precision Timepieces Academy). Proper alignment is critical when fitting a NATO strap. Begin by threading the strap through the bottom spring bar, then back through the top bar, creating a secure loop. Adjust the strap length so that excess material can be neatly tucked under the keepers, ensuring a clean look and preventing any interference with wrist movement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What tools do I need to put a NATO strap on a watch?
You typically need a spring bar tool to remove the existing strap and to help thread the NATO strap through the watch’s spring bars. No additional tools are required for installation.

How do I remove the old watch strap before installing a NATO strap?
Use a spring bar tool to compress the spring bars holding the current strap in place. Carefully detach the strap from the watch lugs without damaging the watch case or spring bars.

Can I put a NATO strap on any watch?
Most watches with standard spring bars and lug widths compatible with NATO straps can accommodate them. However, watches with fixed bars or unusual lug designs may not support NATO straps.

What is the correct way to thread a NATO strap onto a watch?
First, pass the long end of the NATO strap through one spring bar, then under the watch case, and finally through the opposite spring bar. Adjust the strap so the watch sits centered on the strap.

How do I adjust the fit of a NATO strap once it is installed?
Slide the strap through the buckle and adjust the length to fit your wrist comfortably. Excess strap can be tucked back into the keepers for a neat appearance.

Is it necessary to remove the spring bars when installing a NATO strap?
No, spring bars should remain in place. The NATO strap is designed to thread under the spring bars without removing them, ensuring a secure fit and easy installation.
Putting a NATO strap on a watch is a straightforward process that enhances both the style and durability of your timepiece. The key steps involve removing the existing strap or bracelet, threading the NATO strap through the watch’s spring bars, and securing it comfortably on the wrist. This method ensures the watch remains securely fastened, even if one spring bar fails, making it a practical choice for everyday wear and active lifestyles.

Understanding the construction of a NATO strap and its unique threading technique is essential for a proper fit. The strap’s design allows for easy adjustment and quick swapping, which adds versatility to your watch collection. Additionally, choosing the right width and material of the NATO strap can complement your watch’s design and improve comfort, making it a personalized accessory as well as a functional one.

In summary, mastering how to put a NATO strap on a watch not only improves the watch’s security and comfort but also offers an opportunity to express personal style. With minimal tools and effort, anyone can upgrade their watch with a NATO strap, benefiting from its durability, ease of use, and aesthetic appeal. This knowledge empowers watch enthusiasts to maintain and customize their timepieces effectively.

Author Profile

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Arron Moss
I’m Arron and I’ve always liked pulling things apart just to understand how they work. Watches were a natural obsession. Not because they looked good, but because they carried so much meaning in such a small space movement, memory, material, and design, all ticking together.

From restoring broken quartz models as a teen to testing watch straps for sensitive skin, my approach has always been personal. Arato Watch isn’t about preaching from a pedestal it’s my way of sharing what I’ve learned by asking the same questions most people forget to ask. I believe watches should be understood, not just worn. That’s exactly what this site is here to help you do.