Words: Charlie Thomas
Like many great designs, the NATO watch strap was born in the military. Named as such because they originally had an NSN (NATO Stock Number) on the inside to identify the type of strap, they were issued by British Ministry of Defence in the latter half of the 20th century. Original NATO straps were known as “G10”, called as such because they were named after the form that soldiers had to fill out in order to get one, and the specifications were simple; they were made from nylon and only produced in “Admirality Grey” and in a size of 20mm.
Now, of course, NATO-inspired straps come in a myriad colours, which is perhaps fitting considering that shortly after NATO straps were introduced to the military, British regiments began making ones that boasted their own colours and stripes. Whilst traditionally watch’s straps would have to be removed in order for NATO ones to replace them, many new watches come complete on them straight out of the box. Here are the best NATO strap watches.
TIMEX
Timex Weekender, £38 from Amazon
DANIEL WELLINGTON
Daniel Wellington Classic Nottingham, £149 from Selfridges
TIMEX X J. CREW
Timex X J.Crew Military, £175 from Mr Porter
FERRAGAMO
1898 Sport, £940 from Ferragamo
TAG HEUER
Formula 1 McLaren, £1,200 from Tag Heuer
TUDOR
Tudor Heritage Black Bay, £2,120 from Tudor
If you’re looking to invest in a NATO strap, visit Watchstrapson.com for a wide selection.
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