It amazes me how i’ve been in the watch world for so long and had not heard of this NATO strap technique… thank you so much! It is super useful when dealing with thick watches, as you’re essentially shaving off a good 1-2mm by only having the nato strap pass under the case once
WHY DID RUclips JUST RECOMMENDED ME THIS NOW? I WEAR NATO STRAP ALL THE TIME BUT THIS NEVER CROSS MY MIND AT ALL, U JUST BLEW MY MIND AND SAVE ME 5MM OF WRIST BULK, THANK YOU!
My problem with NATO straps isn't that they ARE too cheap - it's that they LOOK too cheap. They look like you lost/broke the original strap or bracelet and couldn't afford a proper replacement. I've never seen a NATO strap that I thought looked proper for the watch.
@@chuckschillingvideos Natos are worn for practicality and durability on the field not to parade around the street and look pretty. I like nato's cause they will last as long as my watch and it's cheap to replace them if they ever do get destroyed.
@@dredgewalker By some, perhaps. But I certainly see plenty of posts here on youtube and on watch forums where it's clear that they are being worn primarily as fashion accessories.
Today my first NATO strap arrived in the mail, and the instructions were very vague and when i put it on my wrist something seemed off. After watching your video, I made the same adjustments and the function and fit is absolutely amazing. Thanks!
The watch stays on the strap if one springbar breaks regardless of whether there’s an “underside” piece there or not. The one and only purpose of the “underside” is to keep the watch from sliding up or down the strap.
My thought also Paco. Yes the watch stays on the strap, but with the NATO in the standard config, it stays in the correct area on top of the wrist rather than sliding underneath. As a soldier, you're more likely to be able to jerry-rig something if the watch is at least in the correct area and you're not trying to correct two issues.
You are the main reason I even bought and tried a couple of nato’s, as I just couldn’t stand the look of the big blob of extra strap at the top side of the watch. I love this idea and thank you for this slice of genius!
Well done. I tell my grandkids it's my job to learn something every day. Done! This is a good option for getting more usage out of my NATO straps. Thanks.
The best video how to install a NATO strap the right way I'm very picky meticulous how the watch looks and feels every other video or pictures looks half ass. After couple of tries looks professional and clean and aligned the strap thank you brother
True. Wearing the proper Connery era Bond RAF requires you to leave the spring bars slightly exposed. Not a look I like, but it's just how it shows up in Goldfinger. Check it out... grail-watch.com/2018/04/19/the-real-james-bond-watch-strap-resurrected/ And this tip is great - a much cleaner look.
@@bxctvillalba4390 The complete "true to celluloid" Connery era Bond look would also include either a two - or a three piece Anthony Sinclair suit, a selection of Oxfords, Derbys, loafers and leather boots and of course the indispensible hairpiece.
Stumbled across this video by accident when researching for my first NATO, and it's been invaluable. Prefer this method a thousand times over conventional way. Had to use a clothes shaver to wear away a sharp edge that was digging into my skin but after that it's been flawless. Thank you for your wisdom.
I’ve just discovered this technique and love it, but I’ve had the same issue with a sharp edge digging in. I don’t have a clothes shaver, do you think a nail file would work?
The NATO has always annoyed me for the very reasons you stated. Your solution is superb. I never thought there was a solution to these straps. Excellent. Thanks
I've been wearing my Nato straps like this ever since I first caught your video a year ago. Great look and feel over the traditional method and lets your watch remain the prominent feature on the wrist.
mate.. you are a genius! i’ve worn natos for years now and i never thought to do this! you’re right, the bottom is so much more comfortable with this method. Thank you!
Wow this is absolutely mindboggling!! I would have never thought about this in a million years!!! I'll never wear my NATO the "traditional" way again! Thank you so much! :)
Man... I wore my Seagull 1963 on a classic NATO star with classic way of strapping for years...and this...this - your way... is much better and more comfortable!!! This was the most useful YT clip this year. Thanks!
Yeah for real. I was saw pictures of people wearing the watch rigjt before i was going to pay for the NATO and i looked so "ugly" and i was starting to reconsider. And then suddenly..... i come across your video and i was feeling blessed🙏🏼😇
I brought my first nato about a month ago. I was actually already using this method without seeing a tutorial. The ways shown on youtube often has the excess bunching on the sides of the wrist. I don't like that look. But this video did show me how to hide that extra buckle better underneath my wrist. Thank you.
This is a game changer for me! I’ve never been a huge fan of nato straps but I this has changed my mind! I have several natos and was actually putting my orient ray 2 and Casio duro on a nato strap and THIS will be how I wear them!
It's actually genius. On a smaller watch, say a SARB035, a conventional wearing of a NATO might look a bit odd. I just popped one on my 035 with your method and it looks amazing.
I use this video as a reference whenever I forget the steps towards your wearing style which is my only option to wear a NATO. As you said, IT'S MIND BLOWING!
I just bought myself my first field watch on a NATO strap and I must say, this was something of a revelation to me haha thanks mate. I know it’s super old this vid but hey, if it works, it works! Thanks!
Very well presented and useful video, well done sir. Mine NATO just dropped in the post and installed using the default method and hated it, far too bulky. Yours was the 3rd video I watched and your stroke of genius has saved the day. It is now very comfortable to wear and looks great. Many thanks indeed for taking the time do this.
I live for comments like this! Thank you so, so, much, Sam. This brought a smile to my face today. Happy to have helped and I'm so glad this configuration made the difference!
Brilliant. I never cared much for the extra bulk of NATO straps but just tried this with my new CWC diver (fixed bars) and absolutely love it. It wears completely different. Thank you.
Thank you so much for this video! I have a 6 1/4” wrist and like wearing larger divers on NATO but they always look and feel top heavy. Just tried this and it’s perfect! Super comfortable!
As I am currently awaiting delivery of my first watch to come with a NATO band, this video caught my eye. This simple technique will solve the "problem" I saw with the way most wear this type of band, without permanently shortening the band. Thank you!
Thanks for sharing it! The traditional setup makes the strap look so bulky. With this alternative setup, it looks much better and it's just as comfortable! I'm rocking my Seiko SKX007 with the black and grey NATO :D This combination is awesome!
One of the very best nato strap tips I've seen on RUclips. This video has finally persuaded me to get a few. I also love the trivia. A very informative and entertaining vid. Thanks! Another subscriber here.
The added benifit of this way is that while it no longer keeps the watch on the strap if held by the buckle, it does protect against buckle failure in a way the normal way does not. If the buckle fails it should bind up and not fall off. Additionally it lowers the height of the watch on the wrist and makes it less prone to snags.
Hi, i am a viewer from Singapore. I just came across your Channel when i was looking for a video on how to put on a Nato strap. Your method of putting the strap and it blew my mind. I will be using your way from on now. Thanks!
I just bought my first NATO strap , I but it on my new Seiko snk805, I put it on the way the instructions said , it just didn't look right , mainly the way the watch sitting up off my wrist ,I ask myself , who would like this , it looks stupid , , I was considering sending the strap back for a refund and just use the strap it came with . Today I came across this video just by chance ,, then I tried out this method ,, and it's much better , this has got to be a game changer for every NATO strap user . I have decided to keep the strap ,and I thank you , you have earned a Like and Subscribe.
This is brilliant! I probably have over 20 different Nato straps and I have always cut off the under side; simply because I absolutely hate the bulkiness it creates when wore as it supposed to. I have a few brand new ones I have not cut the under side and will be using them like this. Thanks!!!
What a simple but great idea! Thank you for explaining. I’ve always disliked NATO straps because of the bulk of the end of the strap being tucked back on itself. I’m tempted now to buy a NATO just to try it out!
Sweet! Thank you I've just installed my first Nato on my 1971 Bulova 666 Surfboard Chrono, using the Down Under Method. I was never a fan of the other method. This is brilliant!
So much more comfortable, as soon as I did it it felt so much better, just hope it works just as well for guys with a smaller wrist, 10/10. also I’ve been in the uk 🇬🇧 army for 20 years n never heard of this method, it just feels so much better, well for me at least.
Game changer! I have never been able to get over how awkward the nato strap looks with the tucked portion of the tail visible. I will be trying this method from now on. Many thanks for the tip!!
Yep!! Never been a NATO or Zulu strap fan but just waiting for my first one now for my turtle and quite excited! Love the tip and will be executing it first thing! Thank you my friend
Also I’ve just discovered that with a bit of coaxing you can slide the watch face to get it right in the middle of your wrist by feeding a bit of strap either way as desired, also it won’t move out of place on its own. Again such a simple idea 💡 but works better in so many other ways
ID, these are BOTH Bond straps. The black/olive/red pattern was worn by Connery (on a Sub) in Goldfinger. The black/gray was worn by Craig (on a Seamaster) in Spectre. I wear both. I highly endorse Gekota straps; a very good product.
Hey man, sorry, I should've clarified better. The Grey NATO has become an "official" bond NATO after being used in Spectre, but the original lead to the grey design that was the "unofficial" strap for years ;)
Michael Powell. Sorry Michael; the strap worn by Connery in Goldfinger was a normal nylon strap that was popular in the 60's. NATO or G10 straps were only issued to the British Military in grey until the mid 80's and were not sold commercially until then. Craig's strap was as you say, a Bond strap, or a commercially available copy.
Chin, you are correct in that Connery was not wearing a NATO. But it was not a ZULU either (it didn't have the ZULU-style hardware). What Connery wore was a one-piece nylon dive strap with a standard tang and buckle.,
Thank you very much for a great tip. Most watches will look better without the extra fixing strap under the case, and most don’t need it. But also, the second, fixing strap serves a purpose under the buckle, adding comfort by giving a smooth surface and extra distance to the metal. And hey, if you know you’ll be operating in areas of risk, like on a boat or something, you can even eliminate the risk of buckle pin failure by simply folding strap end back from the buckle and under the fixing strap loop! Looks a bit strange, but it works! Just try and simulate pin failure, and the buckle will give a little and lock against the fixing strap loop.
Thank you, Eirik. I was speaking with a bit of inexperience at the time (and also ad-libbed most of it) But I fully agree with the point you made. I hope you get to enjoy this method and that it makes your strap wearing experience all the better. All the best!
There's another reason why they have the double layer, it stops the watch sliding up or down, but also, it keeps the watch away from your skin, which in the original purpose of a NATO strap with the British was for RAF pilots, in cold cockpits who wouldn't want cold metal touching their skin.
Bought my first auto, a Seiko Pressage, and it came with a NATO strap, never used one of this straps before so thanks for teaching me how to use one! Cheers!
I also was a NATO/ZULU strap hater with relish but now after getting into mechanical and automatic watches, namely Seiko and Orient i have become a bit of a NATO/ZULU connoisseur if there is such a thing
Awesome! I just came upon this video, and I love it. I have a number of NATO straps but hate the fact that the watch sits so high on my 7.45” wrist. This technique lowers it by 50%! Thank you for making my NATO collection more appealing again.
Wow what a great idea. I just now tried it and it works well. I like it! I would have never thought of that. I never could quite talk myself into cutting that one piece off the strap which would produce the same effect. Thanks for making the video!!!!!!!
5:48 you gave us two options: a) I think I might have either one of my greatest secrets on wearing NATO straps b) you know this and I'm just wasting your time But my good friend, there is a third option: c) we knew it but forgot and now we are glad we know it again :-) Thank you very much.
you can just cut that underside piece off as well. But as others have said that section is generally to keep the watch from sliding off the strap. This only really happens if the watch rather freely moves along the strap. If it doesn't really freely move, the space between the case and springbar is tight enough to hold the watch in place anyway, then it's fine to cut that underside section off. Makes the whole thing thinner.
The under strap keep the watch from sliding off the strap when off your wrist you can then hang it off your bunk as a wall clock it also aids it from sliding around on your wrist if you wear it loose great vidio by the way
Keeping your expensive watch on a NATO protects the bracelet and helps it hold its value. Plus it’s sturdy and water resistant. Perfect for a dive watch.
this just turns a nato into a 3 ring zulu. The purpose of the extra strap on the nato is to stop the watch moving around and dangling off the underside of your wrist if the springbar breaks. The advantage of not having the extra strap piece under the watch is that large heavy watches aren't elevated too much off the wrist
Appreciate the comment, man. Since I do these video's on the fly, I can't always turn a phrase that well haha! Very nicely explained about the function of the securing part of the strap.
Perfectly explained. Makes perfect sense what your saying. Imagine a soldier in the heat of battle having his watch dangling off, if his spring bar was to break. That would be a most undesirable occurrence for him. So yes, it makes perfect sense what your saying Adrian that the extra strap would prevent this happening to a commercial user like you and l . I also agree with your other comment about this method of not having the extra strap piece underneath the watch makes heavier watches less elevated off the wrist.
The watch is still only secured by the 2 springbars. If one breaks, the watch will still hang off as it doesn't matter how many layers of strap are beneath, the watch is ONLY held by the bars... In the '70s I owned a super wide strap which mounted the watch on top - yet still, the only more secure method to secure the watch is 1. Solder the springbar or 2. Contain the watch and view through a window.
Magnificent!!! Very sneaky. I suppose in theory the nato under this method serves as a zulu strap as well. All I have are nato so I guess I have options now....a ZuNat if you like😬😬😬😬
I have an Omega Nato strap and this method doesn't work as well as it should due to the strap holder being Square. It can't re-position itself to fit snugly with the buckle.
Wow! This totally blew my mind! Recently ordered and received three WatchGecko ZULU straps for my Tudor Reference 79230R yesterday Eve! Really cool, I have both colorways that you have in your video along with an additional solid-Olive Green strap! Even though I have the heavy duty buckles on my Zulu and DON'T mind the conventional configuration, I followed your directions and I am AMAZED by the Much-Lower profile of this configuration! With the EXTRA THICK strap, This configuration allows my strap to act as a wrist rest, quite comfortable actually! Truly, you are a Zulu/NATO Strap God-send, Thank you for SHARING your Strap Configuration Tip!🔥🔥🔥
I love it. I just bought my first good watch ( good by me anyway ) and a nato strap with it. I don’t like the way it looks mounted on the side. Your way of mounting the strap is much more balanced “feels” better than others I’ve seen. Thanks 👍
I completely agree! My wrist is a bit larger, so I could not get the end of the strap through the buckle all at one, with the back folded. I just did it in two steps - through the folded back first, then through the pin buckle. Heaven! Thank you.
No. It's an 18mm RAF strap with green center lines and red trim on a black background, that was put on an issued Rolex Mil Sub with 20mm lugs that had the bars welded on. The watch was borrowed from an actual SBS veteran who was issued the watch by the Royal Navy. The strap that was on it was not the issued G10 diver strap (commonly called a “NATO” today) that it was issued with, but instead a shorter strap the owner put on but that didn't fit on Connery's wrist. So they went out to a street stand that sold straps (it was popular at the time) and bought the RAF strap you see in the movie. That is also why the strap didn't fit the lug width of the watch. It was an 18mm RAF strap that was made for smaller dress watches. It was not a Zulu. Zulu straps are the U.S. equivalent to the G10 (again, commonly called the "NATO") except they are thicker, more durable, the buckles and keepers are generally oval instead of squared off, and they come in 3 ring and 5 ring versions. Finally, for the video, that extra piece of strap is NOT to “keep the watch on should a pin break”, it’s there to keep the watch from sliding off the band. That is why it exists.
Thanks VeteranAJ. I had heard some slightly different things about the Connery watch in that the director or someone in the film crew loaned him the watch with the strap because Connery had shown up with a dress watch, so that’s interesting about the strap purchase and other likely owner.
That's excellent, I've been using nato's for a years and often found that leftover strap usually around the back doesn't sit in the buckles properly in often pops out so this method I'm very pleased to find out about. thanks very much.
You've finally convinced me to wear a NATO. I used to hate that little "package" hanging off to the side, and making the watch look clumsy. Now, it looks great.
This blew my mind. Today is the first day of the rest of my life.
Lol. Never knew that babies can speak full sentences right from the start.
Stevie, is that you?
im watching now in 2021 and you say exact what i was thinking
.
Believe in Jesus and you will be saved ❤
It amazes me how i’ve been in the watch world for so long and had not heard of this NATO strap technique… thank you so much! It is super useful when dealing with thick watches, as you’re essentially shaving off a good 1-2mm by only having the nato strap pass under the case once
Hey! Your technique fixed all the irritations that I had with my strap. Thank you!
I really appreciate that, Chirag. I hope you enjoy this method for years to come! Kind Regards
Every Summer when I go into NATO mode, I find myself re-watching this video to remind myself how to do it - thanks!
WHY DID RUclips JUST RECOMMENDED ME THIS NOW? I WEAR NATO STRAP ALL THE TIME BUT THIS NEVER CROSS MY MIND AT ALL, U JUST BLEW MY MIND AND SAVE ME 5MM OF WRIST BULK, THANK YOU!
If you think NATO-straps are too cheap, Omega has got you covered!
My problem with NATO straps isn't that they ARE too cheap - it's that they LOOK too cheap. They look like you lost/broke the original strap or bracelet and couldn't afford a proper replacement. I've never seen a NATO strap that I thought looked proper for the watch.
chuckschilling f91w with nato straps can never go wrong
@@chuckschillingvideos Have you ever looked at leather ones? I think they look rather good, especially compared to the fabric ones.
@@chuckschillingvideos Natos are worn for practicality and durability on the field not to parade around the street and look pretty. I like nato's cause they will last as long as my watch and it's cheap to replace them if they ever do get destroyed.
@@dredgewalker By some, perhaps. But I certainly see plenty of posts here on youtube and on watch forums where it's clear that they are being worn primarily as fashion accessories.
Today my first NATO strap arrived in the mail, and the instructions were very vague and when i put it on my wrist something seemed off. After watching your video, I made the same adjustments and the function and fit is absolutely amazing. Thanks!
OMFG, this was the most amazing thing I've ever seen. I can finally rest knowing my life is now complete. Thank you.
The watch stays on the strap if one springbar breaks regardless of whether there’s an “underside” piece there or not. The one and only purpose of the “underside” is to keep the watch from sliding up or down the strap.
Yes, but also because the watch is higher, you avoid lug pins tension by the wrist or hand movemend.
My thought also Paco. Yes the watch stays on the strap, but with the NATO in the standard config, it stays in the correct area on top of the wrist rather than sliding underneath. As a soldier, you're more likely to be able to jerry-rig something if the watch is at least in the correct area and you're not trying to correct two issues.
You are the main reason I even bought and tried a couple of nato’s, as I just couldn’t stand the look of the big blob of extra strap at the top side of the watch. I love this idea and thank you for this slice of genius!
Yup, that extra flap is to prevent the watch head from sliding off the strap when you take it off your wrist, especially for watches with longer lugs.
Obviously.
Where has this video been my whole NATO life? Love this. Thanks!
Well done. I tell my grandkids it's my job to learn something every day. Done! This is a good option for getting more usage out of my NATO straps. Thanks.
Haha! I really appreciate that, George. I hope you're wearing your Nato's in good health and enjoy using this method! Best Wishes
The best video how to install a NATO strap the right way I'm very picky meticulous how the watch looks and feels every other video or pictures looks half ass. After couple of tries looks professional and clean and aligned the strap thank you brother
Daniel Craig wearing the “wrong” one makes it also a Bond NATO. So in the end now both are Bond NATOs
True. Wearing the proper Connery era Bond RAF requires you to leave the spring bars slightly exposed. Not a look I like, but it's just how it shows up in Goldfinger. Check it out... grail-watch.com/2018/04/19/the-real-james-bond-watch-strap-resurrected/ And this tip is great - a much cleaner look.
@@bxctvillalba4390 The complete "true to celluloid" Connery era Bond look would also include either a two - or a three piece Anthony Sinclair suit, a selection of Oxfords, Derbys, loafers and leather boots and of course the indispensible hairpiece.
That is right. Connery used a 16 mm nato 5 colours ( red, green and black) on a 20 mm Rolex Submariner 6538
Daniel Craig's black and grey was the only "Bond" NATO strap. Connery never wore a NATO strap - they weren't invented until 1973!
I’m so glad that you’ve told people about the Bond NATO I’ve had so many arguments regarding this it’s unbelievable !!!!!!
Stumbled across this video by accident when researching for my first NATO, and it's been invaluable. Prefer this method a thousand times over conventional way. Had to use a clothes shaver to wear away a sharp edge that was digging into my skin but after that it's been flawless. Thank you for your wisdom.
I’ve just discovered this technique and love it, but I’ve had the same issue with a sharp edge digging in. I don’t have a clothes shaver, do you think a nail file would work?
I like to learn something new every day, and thanks to you, I did. I tried it on my watch, and now I have a new way of wearing my watch. Thank you.
The NATO has always annoyed me for the very reasons you stated. Your solution is superb. I never thought there was a solution to these straps. Excellent. Thanks
I've been wearing my Nato straps like this ever since I first caught your video a year ago. Great look and feel over the traditional method and lets your watch remain the prominent feature on the wrist.
Now why haven’t I thought of that? I tried your idea and I loved it. Thks a mil. You’re a genius.
mate.. you are a genius! i’ve worn natos for years now and i never thought to do this! you’re right, the bottom is so much more comfortable with this method. Thank you!
Wow this is absolutely mindboggling!! I would have never thought about this in a million years!!! I'll never wear my NATO the "traditional" way again! Thank you so much! :)
Man... I wore my Seagull 1963 on a classic NATO star with classic way of strapping for years...and this...this - your way... is much better and more comfortable!!! This was the most useful YT clip this year. Thanks!
Thankyou for this I just got a cheap Ebay NATO and this solution means i can still use the strap!!! Thanks
Such a pleasure, man! I'm so glad that this helped you!
Yeah for real. I was saw pictures of people wearing the watch rigjt before i was going to pay for the NATO and i looked so "ugly" and i was starting to reconsider. And then suddenly..... i come across your video and i was feeling blessed🙏🏼😇
I brought my first nato about a month ago. I was actually already using this method without seeing a tutorial. The ways shown on youtube often has the excess bunching on the sides of the wrist. I don't like that look. But this video did show me how to hide that extra buckle better underneath my wrist. Thank you.
Blow my mind. Been wearing my NATO's more since I watched your video. Thanks for the great tip.
This is a game changer for me! I’ve never been a huge fan of nato straps but I this has changed my mind! I have several natos and was actually putting my orient ray 2 and Casio duro on a nato strap and THIS will be how I wear them!
It's actually genius. On a smaller watch, say a SARB035, a conventional wearing of a NATO might look a bit odd. I just popped one on my 035 with your method and it looks amazing.
I use this video as a reference whenever I forget the steps towards your wearing style which is my only option to wear a NATO.
As you said, IT'S MIND BLOWING!
I just bought myself my first field watch on a NATO strap and I must say, this was something of a revelation to me haha thanks mate. I know it’s super old this vid but hey, if it works, it works! Thanks!
stumbled across this old video of yours ... the quality of your videos has dramatically improved!
Very well presented and useful video, well done sir. Mine NATO just dropped in the post and installed using the default method and hated it, far too bulky. Yours was the 3rd video I watched and your stroke of genius has saved the day. It is now very comfortable to wear and looks great. Many thanks indeed for taking the time do this.
I live for comments like this! Thank you so, so, much, Sam. This brought a smile to my face today. Happy to have helped and I'm so glad this configuration made the difference!
Buy a Phoenix (royal navy supplier) NATO strap. They are very thin, yet tough. Bulk is not a problem, and you get the best NATO strap.
Brilliant. I never cared much for the extra bulk of NATO straps but just tried this with my new CWC diver (fixed bars) and absolutely love it. It wears completely different. Thank you.
Thank you so much for this video! I have a 6 1/4” wrist and like wearing larger divers on NATO but they always look and feel top heavy. Just tried this and it’s perfect! Super comfortable!
As I am currently awaiting delivery of my first watch to come with a NATO band, this video caught my eye. This simple technique will solve the "problem" I saw with the way most wear this type of band, without permanently shortening the band. Thank you!
Thanks for sharing it! The traditional setup makes the strap look so bulky. With this alternative setup, it looks much better and it's just as comfortable! I'm rocking my Seiko SKX007 with the black and grey NATO :D This combination is awesome!
One of the very best nato strap tips I've seen on RUclips. This video has finally persuaded me to get a few. I also love the trivia. A very informative and entertaining vid. Thanks! Another subscriber here.
The added benifit of this way is that while it no longer keeps the watch on the strap if held by the buckle, it does protect against buckle failure in a way the normal way does not. If the buckle fails it should bind up and not fall off. Additionally it lowers the height of the watch on the wrist and makes it less prone to snags.
Hi, i am a viewer from Singapore. I just came across your Channel when i was looking for a video on how to put on a Nato strap. Your method of putting the strap and it blew my mind. I will be using your way from on now. Thanks!
Genius! Really love how it changes the profile of the watch on my wrist.
I just bought my first NATO strap , I but it on my new Seiko snk805, I put it on the way the instructions said , it just didn't look right , mainly the way the watch sitting up off my wrist ,I ask myself , who would like this , it looks stupid , , I was considering sending the strap back for a refund and just use the strap it came with . Today I came across this video just by chance ,, then I tried out this method ,, and it's much better , this has got to be a game changer for every NATO strap user . I have decided to keep the strap ,and I thank you , you have earned a Like and Subscribe.
Thank you for this! I'm new to Nato straps, and love this.
This is brilliant! I probably have over 20 different Nato straps and I have always cut off the under side; simply because I absolutely hate the bulkiness it creates when wore as it supposed to. I have a few brand new ones I have not cut the under side and will be using them like this. Thanks!!!
What a simple but great idea! Thank you for explaining. I’ve always disliked NATO straps because of the bulk of the end of the strap being tucked back on itself. I’m tempted now to buy a NATO just to try it out!
I prefer this way, thank you. Got my first NATO today and just tried it. The strap looks so much better your way.
Great idea! Thanks for the tip! It certainly looks a lot more symmetrical! All the best, Rob
Sweet! Thank you I've just installed my first Nato on my 1971 Bulova 666 Surfboard Chrono, using the Down Under Method. I was never a fan of the other method. This is brilliant!
So much more comfortable, as soon as I did it it felt so much better, just hope it works just as well for guys with a smaller wrist, 10/10. also I’ve been in the uk 🇬🇧 army for 20 years n never heard of this method, it just feels so much better, well for me at least.
Game changer! I have never been able to get over how awkward the nato strap looks with the tucked portion of the tail visible. I will be trying this method from now on. Many thanks for the tip!!
Thanks for this tip. I'm wearing my first NATO on my new Vostok Amphibia.
Yep!! Never been a NATO or Zulu strap fan but just waiting for my first one now for my turtle and quite excited! Love the tip and will be executing it first thing! Thank you my friend
I love this, looks so slick and discreet on my arm, thanks 🙂
I was about to chuck the NATO strap because it looked SO big on my small wrist. This alternative method made all the difference! Thank you!
OK your trick did blow my mind and I had to rewind a couple times to fully how it's being done. I love this. Good job!
Same here! I didn't really understand that it went through the main clasp!
Wow!!! You just blew my mind. Been using them for over 10 years now and only one way to wear it. Thanks so much for the tip!
Also I’ve just discovered that with a bit of coaxing you can slide the watch face to get it right in the middle of your wrist by feeding a bit of strap either way as desired, also it won’t move out of place on its own. Again such a simple idea 💡 but works better in so many other ways
Mind blown ... what an awesome strap hack , Now the band and buckle line up and the tail end isn't almost touching the watch . LOVE THIS !!
Your way is genius sir! You got yourself a subscriber!!! Thank you.
I really, really appreciate it. Thank you so much! I hope you enjoy this new method of Nato wearing well into the future. Best wishes!
Great video! You gave a very easy to understand demonstration. Bonus points for the Bond info.
ID, these are BOTH Bond straps. The black/olive/red pattern was worn by Connery (on a Sub) in Goldfinger. The black/gray was worn by Craig (on a Seamaster) in Spectre. I wear both. I highly endorse Gekota straps; a very good product.
Hey man, sorry, I should've clarified better. The Grey NATO has become an "official" bond NATO after being used in Spectre, but the original lead to the grey design that was the "unofficial" strap for years ;)
I know it's a pretty late reply but I think the Goldfinger watch was ZULU, quite similar but just a single strap.
Michael Powell. Sorry Michael; the strap worn by Connery in Goldfinger was a normal nylon strap that was popular in the 60's. NATO or G10 straps were only issued to the British Military in grey until the mid 80's and were not sold commercially until then. Craig's strap was as you say, a Bond strap, or a commercially available copy.
sapper steve : I think it was as one piece strap rather than a "normal" 2 piece strap. (?).
And so Craig was ignorant of the real Bond colours. Shame.
Chin, you are correct in that Connery was not wearing a NATO. But it was not a ZULU either (it didn't have the ZULU-style hardware). What Connery wore was a one-piece nylon dive strap with a standard tang and buckle.,
Great tip! I just bought my first nato strap and have been viewing different ways to put on. Really like this sleek solution! Thanks!
Thank you very much for a great tip. Most watches will look better without the extra fixing strap under the case, and most don’t need it. But also, the second, fixing strap serves a purpose under the buckle, adding comfort by giving a smooth surface and extra distance to the metal. And hey, if you know you’ll be operating in areas of risk, like on a boat or something, you can even eliminate the risk of buckle pin failure by simply folding strap end back from the buckle and under the fixing strap loop! Looks a bit strange, but it works! Just try and simulate pin failure, and the buckle will give a little and lock against the fixing strap loop.
Thank you, Eirik. I was speaking with a bit of inexperience at the time (and also ad-libbed most of it) But I fully agree with the point you made. I hope you get to enjoy this method and that it makes your strap wearing experience all the better. All the best!
Hi
Just watched your tip for wearing a Nato strap and I am well impressed. Tried it on my MWC and it sits much better. Many thanks
This is the only way I’ll wear a nato strap. Extremely comfortable.
GENIUS!!! I was about to cut up my strap. But now I don't have to. Now I am able to keep that classic nato strap look if i choose or not. Thanks 😊👍
There's another reason why they have the double layer, it stops the watch sliding up or down, but also, it keeps the watch away from your skin, which in the original purpose of a NATO strap with the British was for RAF pilots, in cold cockpits who wouldn't want cold metal touching their skin.
Bought my first auto, a Seiko Pressage, and it came with a NATO strap, never used one of this straps before so thanks for teaching me how to use one!
Cheers!
I also was a NATO/ZULU strap hater with relish but now after getting into mechanical and automatic watches, namely Seiko and Orient i have become a bit of a NATO/ZULU connoisseur if there is such a thing
I've liked putting my Alpinist and my SARW019 on NATOs, with the field watch aesthetic they really suit the look.
Awesome! I just came upon this video, and I love it. I have a number of NATO straps but hate the fact that the watch sits so high on my 7.45” wrist. This technique lowers it by 50%! Thank you for making my NATO collection more appealing again.
You sir, are a freaking genius! Thanks!
Charles Smith That's a absolutely Fantabulous Top comment ☑️💯🙏👍🇳🇿
These comments make me smile. Thank you, Charles, It really means a lot!
IDGuy homie!!!!
Wow what a great idea. I just now tried it and it works well. I like it! I would have never thought of that. I never could quite talk myself into cutting that one piece off the strap which would produce the same effect. Thanks for making the video!!!!!!!
I never dreamed that how a watch band was routed could be so important. I'm going to do it differently just because I'm a rebel.
5:48 you gave us two options:
a) I think I might have either one of my greatest secrets on wearing NATO straps
b) you know this and I'm just wasting your time
But my good friend, there is a third option:
c) we knew it but forgot and now we are glad we know it again :-)
Thank you very much.
you can just cut that underside piece off as well. But as others have said that section is generally to keep the watch from sliding off the strap. This only really happens if the watch rather freely moves along the strap. If it doesn't really freely move, the space between the case and springbar is tight enough to hold the watch in place anyway, then it's fine to cut that underside section off. Makes the whole thing thinner.
@foxglove true but then you don't get the extra padding on your wrist!
Thanks... I gave up on Nato straps, just tried your method, it works & looks great, thanks for sharing
this is game changer, thank you for this :D
Thank you for this video, this change has been like getting a new watch! I love it.
Wow, that's great actually. Fits much better to my wrist.
Brilliant! You just righted the reason why I haven't given my nato strapped watches much wrist time. Thanks!
The under strap keep the watch from sliding off the strap when off your wrist you can then hang it off your bunk as a wall clock it also aids it from sliding around on your wrist if you wear it loose great vidio by the way
Thank you for the added info, Mark, I really appreciate it!
And to think that nobody at any Omega shops has ever mentioned this!!! Way to go! Bravo!!!
Hell yeah, that was my number one pet peave and this totally solves it, thank God for you, Sir!
Keeping your expensive watch on a NATO protects the bracelet and helps it hold its value. Plus it’s sturdy and water resistant. Perfect for a dive watch.
Thanks for the technique! My Vostok fits much better now.
You sir are a legend. Thanks for the tip!
Pure genius! 💡👏
I like your approach to wearing the NATO that way, Makes a huge amount of sense, Video 1 down, and many more to watch!
this just turns a nato into a 3 ring zulu. The purpose of the extra strap on the nato is to stop the watch moving around and dangling off the underside of your wrist if the springbar breaks. The advantage of not having the extra strap piece under the watch is that large heavy watches aren't elevated too much off the wrist
Appreciate the comment, man. Since I do these video's on the fly, I can't always turn a phrase that well haha! Very nicely explained about the function of the securing part of the strap.
Perfectly explained. Makes perfect sense what your saying. Imagine a soldier in the heat of battle having his watch dangling off, if his spring bar was to break. That would be a most undesirable occurrence for him. So yes, it makes perfect sense what your saying Adrian that the extra strap would prevent this happening to a commercial user like you and l . I also agree with your other comment about this method of not having the extra strap piece underneath the watch makes heavier watches less elevated off the wrist.
The watch is still only secured by the 2 springbars. If one breaks, the watch will still hang off as it doesn't matter how many layers of strap are beneath, the watch is ONLY held by the bars...
In the '70s I owned a super wide strap which mounted the watch on top - yet still, the only more secure method to secure the watch is 1. Solder the springbar or 2. Contain the watch and view through a window.
I have small wrists, and just bought a Timex Expedition Scout 40. This helped a lot. Thank you!
Magnificent!!! Very sneaky. I suppose in theory the nato under this method serves as a zulu strap as well. All I have are nato so I guess I have options now....a ZuNat if you like😬😬😬😬
ashley butterworth I think the nato has the second strap and the Zulu doesn't...
This is fantastic and breathes new life into my NATO straps for me. Thank you
I have an Omega Nato strap and this method doesn't work as well as it should due to the strap holder being Square. It can't re-position itself to fit snugly with the buckle.
Wow! This totally blew my mind! Recently ordered and received three WatchGecko ZULU straps for my Tudor Reference 79230R yesterday Eve! Really cool, I have both colorways that you have in your video along with an additional solid-Olive Green strap!
Even though I have the heavy duty buckles on my Zulu and DON'T mind the conventional configuration, I followed your directions and I am AMAZED by the Much-Lower profile of this configuration!
With the EXTRA THICK strap, This configuration allows my strap to act as a wrist rest, quite comfortable actually!
Truly, you are a Zulu/NATO Strap God-send, Thank you for SHARING your Strap Configuration Tip!🔥🔥🔥
A-frickin’-MAZING,
I love it. I just bought my first good watch ( good by me anyway ) and a nato strap with it. I don’t like the way it looks mounted on the side. Your way of mounting the strap is much more balanced “feels” better than others I’ve seen. Thanks 👍
mind blown....
I completely agree! My wrist is a bit larger, so I could not get the end of the strap through the buckle all at one, with the back folded. I just did it in two steps - through the folded back first, then through the pin buckle. Heaven! Thank you.
Bond doesn’t wear a NATO in the Connery films. Its a Zulu strap
@Eazy E Wow! Thanks! Who knew?
@@TheMIKA900 Lot's of people knew ...
No. It's an 18mm RAF strap with green center lines and red trim on a black background, that was put on an issued Rolex Mil Sub with 20mm lugs that had the bars welded on. The watch was borrowed from an actual SBS veteran who was issued the watch by the Royal Navy. The strap that was on it was not the issued G10 diver strap (commonly called a “NATO” today) that it was issued with, but instead a shorter strap the owner put on but that didn't fit on Connery's wrist. So they went out to a street stand that sold straps (it was popular at the time) and bought the RAF strap you see in the movie. That is also why the strap didn't fit the lug width of the watch. It was an 18mm RAF strap that was made for smaller dress watches. It was not a Zulu. Zulu straps are the U.S. equivalent to the G10 (again, commonly called the "NATO") except they are thicker, more durable, the buckles and keepers are generally oval instead of squared off, and they come in 3 ring and 5 ring versions. Finally, for the video, that extra piece of strap is NOT to “keep the watch on should a pin break”, it’s there to keep the watch from sliding off the band. That is why it exists.
Thanks VeteranAJ. I had heard some slightly different things about the Connery watch in that the director or someone in the film crew loaned him the watch with the strap because Connery had shown up with a dress watch, so that’s interesting about the strap purchase and other likely owner.
akkkkkkshually
That's excellent, I've been using nato's for a years and often found that leftover strap usually around the back doesn't sit in the buckles properly in often pops out so this method I'm very pleased to find out about. thanks very much.
How to make a NATO fit better?
Where it like a zulu.
You've finally convinced me to wear a NATO. I used to hate that little "package" hanging off to the side, and making the watch look clumsy. Now, it looks great.