You can combine the "slim tuck" and "underside tuck" methods on a standard nato to seat the buckle under your wrist for a cleaner, more comfortable fit.
This is what I do with my Orient Small Seconds (RA-AP0005B10B). It's great for a "dressy" watch! I burned off 5 cm of the NATO, so it fits even better.
Last summer I was inner tubing with friends when my NATO strap saved my watch. We were travelling at high speeds, and doing our best to flip the other inner tube next to us (some of my other friends). I had grabbed the side so that my partner could climb on our neighbors inner tube to try and yank them off, and to try and prevent us from doing this, they started kicking at my arm to get me to let go. One of the blows landed right on my wrist, knocking against my Seiko PADI. When the smoke had cleared, my watch was hanging by only one spring bar, the other having ripped out from the impact. Now, if I had been wearing my watch on a bracelet or two piece strap, my PADI would be at the bottom of a lake. You never know when the unexpected might happen, so it counts to have security. Great video as always TGV, keep it up, see you at 200k subs!
Nothing tougher,more rugged,more reliable and more able to handle the rigours of the field than NATO's, it's not even a debateable topic,they are,for me, the ULTIMATE watch strap.
9:04 there I go what exactly? You didn’t show me what exactly you did. I have a zulu strap. Was I meant to watch the nato strap video for an explanation that carries over?
Classic Tgv “...I’ve been meaning to do for absolutely donkeys...” we say that over here in Oz but might be over out transatlantic friends’ heads. Cheers old mate
WE BROKE GODS LAW. 2000 YEARS AGO, GOD PROVIDED A SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST WHO SUFFERED AND TOOK OUR PUNISHMENT ON THE CROSS. THE BIBLE SAYS IF WE DECLARE WITH OUT MOUTH JESUS IS LORD AND BELIEVE IN OUR HEART GOD RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD YOU SHALL BE SAVED. Romans 10-9. GOD WILL FORGIVE YOUR SINS AND GRANT YOU EVERLASTING LIFE ALL BECAUSE OF WHAT JESUS DID ON THE CROSS
Extra Bonus Tip: Cut the extra flap off the NATO for a very slim fit! Just cut it very close to the stitching, then burn the frayed end with a lighter to seal the ends of the threads so it doesn't unravel. Very comfortable and thin if done properly.
Doing this also allows you to were the strap in what TGV refers to the "under tuck." It essentially turns the NATO into a thin Zulu, I have done this to several NATOs and it is very comfortable. Works best if your strap is stitched and not the press-glued/"welded" style.
I never thought about these style straps paired with these type of watches till I saw a few of your videos. I like the look it gives the watches and adds versatility in terms of style. Thank you for the advise on how to wear these. Cheers, RLH IV
Nice! Majority of the time my watches are on NATO straps, especially my divers. Been contemplating adding some Zulu straps specifically for the option of under-tucking; Crown & Buckle has some leather versions I've considered along with the OG, burgundy/olive green Bond strap. Still, I also kind of like having the NATO strap hold the watch even off my wrist as I recently realized after having my GMT slide off my new perlon strap due to force of habit of holding just the top of the strap, lol
I use yet another method, great for smaller wrists. I first pull the strap through the end loop of the short end. Then I fold the short strap in on it self, positioning the end loop near the other ones and make a sharp crease. Now you have the buckle and three loops in a row. Now add the watch like you would normally do and position it against the crease, so that this fits underneath in-between the lug tips. This helps keeping it in place. You might also wear it in reverse, but I have never tried this. This method gives you three loops to secure a strap that is a bit shortened, a single underpass and no snaggy bits. ruclips.net/video/pIYm9ChtkDE/видео.html
Hi TGV Ohh, thank you so much. Never knew that! I'm now wearing my Seamaster slim tuck, inverted positioned. It makes it sit much more tight on the wrist, more aesthetically pleasing... As always with good ideas there's a downside to it, though. Certain things has come into the daylight - my nato obviously need a good wash. I've better get going, then 😆 Keep up the good work👍
Haha, FANTASTIC!!!! If I can get just a few people to enjoy their watches more, my job is done. As for a mucky strap, between you and me, I kinda like them like that ;-) Terrible, I know, thank you Kjeld, Best regards, TGV
Great tips and NATO attachment/fit methods. I don't have many Zulus, I think I only have 1 Zulu, so the NATO methods would be what I'd use more. The "standard" or "normal" methods are generally fine and I got used to, but glad to learn of various ways to possibly get a better fit and/or look. It is sort of amazing how just 1 layer of strap material can make a difference in how the watch looks and lifts off the wrist. The only method I foresee using is a combination of your "Slim Tuck" for NATO and "Underside Tuck" for Zulu.. Call it the "Slim Underside Tuck"? What this does is you can get the slimmer profile with the "Slim Tuck", but that leaves some asymmetry if you try and secure it similar to how you would for "standard" or "normal". The outer will have more bulk because of strap material and keeper hardware and the inner side will be slim and low profile. So, just move the watch head down towards the holes or closer to center of strap like you did for your "Underside Tuck" on the Zulu, then run the strap through like the "Slim Tuck". That way, all the bulk will be on the underside and the outer and inner sides of the strap, when viewed from the watch front, will appear the same. Thanks again!
Cool! TGV, Thanks again for a very informative video! I got back into watches after finding your channel, and I'm glad I did. It kind of reminds me of a toy windup airplane we used to play with as a kid, we used to say "wind it up and let it go"! Now it applies to watches! Thanks again, Steve M.
You are rezponsable of all those natos I already have. Leather, Bond, black, red....now I need springbars for the Omega Flightmaster to fit on a Nsto!!🤤
I run mine back thru the buckle and buckle pin. Use the first keeper, fold the excess back toward the buckle. Lift the pin and use the first hole of the strap and run in in the opposite way
Yeah you should be able too, I used a 18mm NATO on a 20mm watch and it worked just fine, with a nato you can get away with a few mm difference in size and its not noticeable
Enlightening video, TGV. It took me long enough to figure out how to use a NATO in the first instance. So, it's fantastic that you did a video on the other ways to use both NATO and Zulu. It has been much appreciated.
My first watch (timex weekender) came with a leather nato, and to the day I find it way more comfortable than the steel bracelets because of my small wrist.
I'm not really a fan of the *slim tuck...* I've had it suggested to me to cut down on the thickness, but at that point: buy a Zulu. At any rate, thank you for the illustrations here! Great stuff as usual.
An refinement of the "slim tuck" (also called the "down-under") is to slide the watch down the strap so that the length of the 12-o'clock end is great enough to allow the buckle to come under the wrist directly beneath the watch-head. This means that the excess is under the wrist rather than on the side of the wrist. I wear my NATO straps this way all the time now. Until I learnt this method I just couldn't understand the appeal of a NATO strap.
Yeah I accidentally stumbled upon this myself and it definitely enhances the appeal of a NATO by hiding the excess. But I suppose it's less secure given that the redundant extra bit is no longer directly holding onto the watch.
True, but the extra loop really adds no security: any one-piece strap will hold the watch on your wrist if one spring bar fails. If both spring bars fail, then the extra loop will do nothing to stop the watch falling off your wrist. I think it's meant to stop the watch sliding on the strap, but how would that happen? It's never happened to me. Unless divers need that security loop, I can't imagine how it helps. A three-ring Zulu doesn't have it, but Zulus are thicker, and make the watch sit too high. I don't want to cut off the extra loop lest the cut edge irritate my skin; the "down-under" method solves all these problems.
Interestingly there is another way, with the watch on the inside of the wrist. Normally on the inside of the right, two reasons. While carrying the rifle on patrol, you can glance across and read the time, also while having a gloved hand. On stag. The lume is less exposed.
Thank you Raymond, I believe my good friends at Revolution.watch already did. I certainly will be keeping an eye on it, although a tiny bit out of my price range LOL ;-) Best regards, TGV
3:02 - "NATO" strap was not introduced in 1973, the same basic model exist since the 1954* - the A.F.0210; in 1973 was just an update of the specifications, since 1966 the strap for clock and compass receive NATO stock number. * The 1945 VB Hygienique strap has the same characteristics of the one that became know as "NATO" strap, and even the 1908 "Victor" strap in leather, has the same design, main strap under both clock lugs, secondary under strap for avoid that the clock slip though the main strap.
Old video but for a Nato I like to cut it sometimes. When cutting the extra loop I often get close to the edge, then burn the hell out of it creating a nice charred surface, then finely sand it down for a flush, comfortable fit. I also burn any loose threads, but the biggest thing I do is put a very small ring around my most used setting, usually 4 or 5 holes up. This helps keep it secure and strong. I also like avoiding cutting by doing the slim tuck and putting the excess strap toward the bottom of the wrist. Same as the way the zulu was folded on the bottom, but the extra loop is under there as well. Great video, thanks TGV.
To me if you’re just wearing a NATO or Zulu for looks then it doesn’t matter which one you have, but if you’re wearing it for rugged worthiness- the Zulu wins all day long. The vast majority of NATOs use a spring bar in the buckle, so while it keeps your watch on the strap the only thing keeping the strap on your wrist is still just a spring bar. Zulus on the other hand utilize a sewn in ring as the buckle = much stronger and more secure.
Hola, muy buen video . Me encantan tus vídeos. Tengo una pregunta para ti: ¿ Tienes alguna guía o protocolo para vestir de etiqueta con reloj? O ¿Sólo te vistes con el reloj que se te antoja sin utilizar un código de vestimenta? Lo siento por escribirte en español! :(
You can wear the NATO like a ZULU. Don't loop through the metal loop on the short under strap. Instead, put its metal loop on the back center of the watch. Fold the whole short strap towards the buckle. Now secure your strap like a single piece strap but go through that metal loop first (now in front of the buckle) and then through the buckle. You are welcome. A big thanks to "Nordic Watch Channel" in the video called "4 Ways to wear a NATO strap - Tutorial" for showing this as the last method in that video. It's a complete game-changer!
I just bought a small amount of NATO and ZULU Straps - all the ones you have too. I decided to NOT buy a squale 1521 for 850€ but I just bought 2x Seiko 5 Sport Watches for less than 400$ - I couldnt resist for that price!
Hi. Just want to say first of all u have a great channel. I like the way u review your watches. But i was wondering if u can get the time to review a casio gwg 1000 mudmaster. I've seen other reviews but id like to see one from u before i buy. Or better yet if u can do a review of the SEIKO SBTM239. I HAVENT FOUND ANY REVIEWS FOR THIS SEIKO. THANK YOU.
Great video TGV. I have one question. You said you wore your Lion-Shark in the Jacuzzi. I thought you weren't supposed to do that?? The heat from the hot water thins the lubricants on the watch parts and it can run off, thereby decreasing the lubrication on important places on the watch. Same goes for hot showers.
If you have a thicker nato strap (a leather one, for example) you can just take an x-acto knife or a pair of sharp scissors and carefully cut off the extra flap, effectively turning it into a zulu . i've done it with my leather nato, since i didn't like how tall my snzh55 looked on it and i could't be happier with the results. of course if you don't want to tamper with your presumably luxury leather strap, you can always do "the slim tuck" but i still feel that with thicker straps you are not actually removing the bulk, but you are just moving it to a different place. of course with nylon its a whole different story, and i feel that TGV has covered that area pretty well.
So might be a dumb thing but I've been wondering for a while why don't they make a military watch without spring bars? Just a solid case made to be only used with a NATO or ZULU style strap, I'm sure with modern manufacturing and CNC type machines that it would be possible. It would eliminate the possibility of a spring bar failure entirely.
Hi TGV - Just can't wear a Nato, did on occasion back in the college days. Rarely see them in the somewhat sophisticated urban crowd. Tend to doubt you sported a Nato in Svizzera? Best Regards, JP (oh, 70's era college days)
Hello TVG, I have a Rotary Vintage Dive Automatic, which I bought a NATO Strap for because I see you love them. I’ve been able to purchase one to match the colour of my watch face I’d love to show you if you’re interested in seeing? Also I love the Timex Marlin. I’ve added a few reminders on some auction sites so I get notified when new ones are put up, but they’re getting expensive now. Anyway back to the straps and the positions. I really like the Underside position of the Zulu strap. I thought it’s a bit of a shame you can’t do that with the Nato strap, but you can! If you use the Folded back tuck on the Nato strap it enables you to move the watch closer towards the strap holes enabling you to have the Underside position of the Zulu strap with a Nato strap. Keep up the good work! Love the videos just wish I had the funds to build a collection! JT
You can always cut them to size, they were originally intended to be easily sizable by soldiers in the field. You hold the strap between two coins to get the rounded end, you cut off the excess close to the coins and you either melt the fray sticking out of the coins directly with a lighter if you don't mind a bit of discoloring, or (with light colored straps) you heat the knife or a piece of metal, wipe off the soot and then melt the fray with it.
Yeah... They definitely aren't for everyone. I'm kind of hit and miss on them sometimes too. You can get nylon watch straps in a very thin gauge, simple design that doesn't really fall into either category, but more like a conventional strap, the only difference being that they're one piece instead of two.
Uh interesting I didn't know that there were different ways to wear a NATO or Zulu strap. As usual great video and I learned something new YAY!!!!! Sorry my bad spelling, I just got home from a 12 hour work day. Im a bit tired.
Man I thought I bought a NATO strap but it turns out I had a NATO ZULU strap. I was wondering why I had 5 rings and it wasn't a single band; it's a hybrid. I was all against these types of straps, but I don't like to buy leather, and it's really hard to find nice vegan straps; enter the NATO strap. Well done, my friend.
So... if the NATO was introduced by the British in the 1970s how come Connery wears one in the Bond movie in the early 1960s? also why is it called the NATO if its a Brit Army thing?
I got a new watch a few days ago. Of course I changed the bracelet with a black NATO strap 22 mm wide. I'm so satisfied. It's very comfortable and looks very good. I'm so sory that I'd not heard about NATO strap before. But tha NATO is exactly that what will fit in my life style very good. Also I think that the regular way of wearing is the best. For my personal taste other ways are not good. I plan to buy several Blushark straps because I prefer those than others.
Really like the video but I think you should mix down your audio to mono, the audio wobbles from left to right quite substantially. You could even have two separate tracks (background and music in stereo and voiceover in mono to make things nice and comfortable.
Or position 5 for NATO's Cut the damn extra strap off, meaning it sits lower,and is a more altogether more comfortable strap,it also means the buckle can go where it's supposed to be,on the bottom of your wrist. Let's also bear in mind,that the original nylon/leather/canvas straps, the ones that went through both world wars, were all single pass,no extra piece., Making the single pass the more authentic field watch strap.
Forgive me Father Gentry for I have sinned. Bought two Zulus from Gecko. The nylon wears lovely as is, but the leather only has one keeper and didn't tuck well. So. *Bows head* I cut it to size. Please absolve me.
Ciao. I believe there are two types of ZULU straps. The 3 rings whcih is the simple one strap piece (like the olive color you are showing in the video) and the 5 rings which is like the NATO with the under-watch additional strap, making a double strap passing under the watch. Correct me if I am wrong.
That's why I prefer the Zulu.. you can always get the buckle opposite the watch. I don't like asymmetry like NATOs have. I'll also trim the straps if they are longer than I need. I have found another way of folding the nato. Put it one like the first way but instead of folding the strap through the same loop it just came through, fold it AROUND that loop and back through the first toward the buckle so any excess is opposite the watch. This normally takes all the excess though and makes it a perfect fit.
this is the standard way to mount a NATO G10 strap: ruclips.net/video/ZVSWOkxrXjo/видео.html with a 5-ring Zulu-style strap, the point is to get the tension off the spring bars without having to pass the strap between the crown & springbar twice...
A fifth way that I discovered by mistake, but the way I like to ware it for every day life: thread the strap end from top of watch till you hits first d ring. Than just simply strap it on your wrist. The watch rides low and buckle is on the underside. Plus I don’t have to tuck the band back around. Very comfortable.
Been watching your channel a lot lately whilst I chose a new watch. Settled on a Seiko Orange Baby Monster, which I don't think you've reviewed. Anyway, I noticed that you wear your watch on your right wrist in this video, as I do. Do you own any "leftie" watches? It would be interesting to know what's on the market.
Hi TGV, you just said that you wore your watch in the jacuzzi. I've always wondered if it's okay to wear a watch or a G shock/digital, in the heat of a jacuzzi or a steam room? Any problems with that?
Instead of underside tucking, I just cut the tab off on all my NATO straps. The watch stays in place fine without it. I also wear my straps inverted. I find it much more comfortable that way, without having the bulky hardware on the outside hitting into things. This is also much more comfortable if you wear your watch on the wrist of your writing hand.
I don't get why anyone would ever do the slim tuck thing, just cut off the extra if you don't like it or buy the strap without the extra in the first place. Personally I don't mind having two layers of nylon between my wrist and my watch, but on leather natos I often end up cutting off the extra because of the leather thickness.
I've tried a gazillion different nato straps and I can't bond with them. As soon as I put back a leather strap it's "awww yeah, now we're talking". Feels it cheapens the watch (and the wearer). Unless you are actually in the military, then I get it.
To me excess strap goes back OVER the last ring and under the first, then tighten. That way secure the band two places on your wrist. Also sad you missed the 5 ring versions.
I did find this useful. I just order a NATO strap for a watch that I was going to get rid of. I like the watch but I was just tired of it. Maybe this will spark that love for the watch I originally had. Once again, thanks.
I have to say when I purchased a nato strap, it was very disappointing. Thin, flimsy and a general low quality feel about it. Can't speak about the Zulu.
extra strap never had that problem extra long straps if I can get to second notch id be happy. how long are Zulu bands? I'm a little short of 9 inches bracelets bands I order extra links to get it over my paws ,zulu would solve that problem
I wonder haw many people realise who the green, red and black design is actually for It was designed for The Rifles, the biggest Infantry Regiment in the British Army.
Why not just trim the end so you don't have to deal with tucking the extra bit? I don't have any NATO straps, but would think it would present a cleaner look.
Wears glove ... proceeds to place ungloved thumb on the crystal ;) great Info though seems like there’s a lot things to consider ... what are your preferences in strap in general?
I tried all the ways to tuck as mentioned but I always now just cut the loop off my natos and burn the end with a lighter. It wears better than any of the methods. I tried, and was nervous about mutilating my straps at first, but it truly feels the best. Otherwise, I'd just never bother wearing unmodified natos.
You skipped ahead to much. In many of your examples of how the strap should be worn you were assuming that everyone knew what you’re talking about, the video needs to be a little more precisely done.
i use the inverted single pass style with my nato strap then i just move the extra below the wrist. very symmetrical from top view and it's really comfortable
You actually can wear the NATO with a down under tuck like your last zulu position. Slide it down near the holes just as you did and send strap through both rings. This doubles up the extra strap ring with the main ring. I wear it this way and love it. It keeps it slim on the wrist and the bulk is underneath which I prefer.
Why do they have to be so long. All that excess strap is putting me off getting one. I'm trying to find something as unbulky as possible and all that rolled up excess ruins it. Any suggestions on a strap I should look at?
it is NATO only the zulu is just a company that got the copy rights and forced companies who made a similar design to rename their products zulu as the name suggests is just those rings that look like african hardware
I don't get why people don't just cut off the excess instead of inventing convoluted ways to tuck it. Simple, cut against a coin edge to get a round shape and melt the edge with a flame to stop it from fraying. I also cut the inner strap to turn my nato into a zulu.
I have hughe wrists and the 3rd zulu way works perfect for me in a nato. any other way I can´t have the buckle centered in my wrist. I engage the extra part as if it had the watch and put it under, that way I get the buckle centered in the back of my wrist.
Get what speaks to you. That said, sometimes stepping outside of your comfort zone opens your eyes to new tastes. If you don't like it, so what. Sell it or pass it on. At least you can say you've ruled out this or that.
love the channel. love the vid. love the lion shark. can't really love the nato. on my thin wrist, there's so much leftover strap. surely someone makes bespoke straps to your wrist size to eliminate this issue!? if not, there's a business idea peeps
One thing I have found with NATO straps and noticed a military guys do is to wear it in the regular style but also use it to hold their wedding ring when they can’t wear it for safety reasons. Before tucking the long end through the keeper ring they feed it through the wedding ring and then it is held in place and can also be tucked under the watch too. The keeper ring and it’s strap then holds the wedding ring against the longer strap and stops the wedding ring from moving about.
Is there a NATO strap like that does not pass a part of it between the wrist and the back of the watch? I have a Garmin Fenix 5X and it has a sensor in the back of it.
i'm new to this wrist watch thing, needless to say i bought my first "nice" watch a casio duro because it has the turning bezel and have found that very handy, i truly hated the rubber-plastic band that came with it so i got a black and grey "bond" strap and i guess i screwed up because its not really long enough to tuck back into the loops i have tried the styles shown here and i think i liked the extra piece left open and the length slid through the best, it still comes out the same length - short but it is closer flatter and less worrisome? i watched a different video a while back about things to do with a nato strap while not wearing it is there anything else i should know about these straps? because i plan on getting more of them
I wonder why they don’t make one piece leather straps anymore. They used to be the norm where I grew up. The other benefit beyond being secure is that they insulate the cold metal from the wrist (I get bone aches, can’t wear steel).
There's a version of the slim tuck, that places the double retainer loops at the 6 o/c position, just like the inverted position, but keeps the 'hardware' at the top.
![Cody Johnson - I'm Gonna Love You (with Carrie Underwood) [Official Music Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/yy9PuYMU29g/mqdefault.jpg)
You can combine the "slim tuck" and "underside tuck" methods on a standard nato to seat the buckle under your wrist for a cleaner, more comfortable fit.
Just noticed that while trying out the slim tuck. So much better.
went with that option. great!
Yep, cleanest look and no more side lump!
Thanks! Wanted my watch to sit lower since its already quite thick and i disliked the extra bulk at the outer side this made it perfect
This is what I do with my Orient Small Seconds (RA-AP0005B10B). It's great for a "dressy" watch! I burned off 5 cm of the NATO, so it fits even better.
Was about to go to bed. I guess sleep can wait 10 more minutes.
Thank you and good night! :D
Best regards,
TGV
Last summer I was inner tubing with friends when my NATO strap saved my watch. We were travelling at high speeds, and doing our best to flip the other inner tube next to us (some of my other friends). I had grabbed the side so that my partner could climb on our neighbors inner tube to try and yank them off, and to try and prevent us from doing this, they started kicking at my arm to get me to let go. One of the blows landed right on my wrist, knocking against my Seiko PADI. When the smoke had cleared, my watch was hanging by only one spring bar, the other having ripped out from the impact.
Now, if I had been wearing my watch on a bracelet or two piece strap, my PADI would be at the bottom of a lake. You never know when the unexpected might happen, so it counts to have security. Great video as always TGV, keep it up, see you at 200k subs!
Nothing tougher,more rugged,more reliable and more able to handle the rigours of the field than NATO's, it's not even a debateable topic,they are,for me, the ULTIMATE watch strap.
Great point. The Zulu/nato is the best way to go to keep your watch safe when out living life.
I remember when Buffalo Bill did the "folded back tuck" in Silence of the Lambs. Good times I say.
😂
32768 vibrations a second, and he was still an angry man!
Good one. You deserve a nice Chianti.
@@jsmith1649 Don't forget the fava beans.
Strange I don't seem to remember him wearing a watch......
Can you do a thorough perlon breakdown please? Brands, weaves, buckles etc
Great idea.
Thank you Hamish,
Best regards,
TGV
Perfect timing! I’ve just got my first NATO strap from Amazon. It’s a black and grey 22mm to try on my Omega planet ocean. 👍
So glad I could help.
A PO on a nato, PURE CLASS! ;-)
Enjoy Gary, thank you,
Best regards,
TGV
Great choice, man. I bet it will look fantastic, and it will make the watch feel super light.
9:04 there I go what exactly? You didn’t show me what exactly you did. I have a zulu strap. Was I meant to watch the nato strap video for an explanation that carries over?
Classic Tgv “...I’ve been meaning to do for absolutely donkeys...”
we say that over here in Oz but might be over out transatlantic friends’ heads. Cheers old mate
Man am I the only one who cuts the fabric underneath it’s da annoying 😂
WE BROKE GODS LAW. 2000 YEARS AGO, GOD PROVIDED A SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST WHO SUFFERED AND TOOK OUR PUNISHMENT ON THE CROSS. THE BIBLE SAYS IF WE DECLARE WITH OUT MOUTH JESUS IS LORD AND BELIEVE IN OUR HEART GOD RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD YOU SHALL BE SAVED. Romans 10-9. GOD WILL FORGIVE YOUR SINS AND GRANT YOU EVERLASTING LIFE ALL BECAUSE OF WHAT JESUS DID ON THE CROSS
Extra Bonus Tip: Cut the extra flap off the NATO for a very slim fit! Just cut it very close to the stitching, then burn the frayed end with a lighter to seal the ends of the threads so it doesn't unravel. Very comfortable and thin if done properly.
Excellent tip triple zero!
Thank you sir.
Best regards,
TGV
TheStig ZeroZeroZero uuugh...
You alright, there?
I've done this for all my Nato's ,they look much better with perfect & nothing extra.
Doing this also allows you to were the strap in what TGV refers to the "under tuck." It essentially turns the NATO into a thin Zulu, I have done this to several NATOs and it is very comfortable. Works best if your strap is stitched and not the press-glued/"welded" style.
I never thought about these style straps paired with these type of watches till I saw a few of your videos. I like the look it gives the watches and adds versatility in terms of style. Thank you for the advise on how to wear these.
Cheers,
RLH IV
So glad I could help, I will be doing more of them too.
Thank you RLH!
Best regards,
TGV
Nice! Majority of the time my watches are on NATO straps, especially my divers. Been contemplating adding some Zulu straps specifically for the option of under-tucking; Crown & Buckle has some leather versions I've considered along with the OG, burgundy/olive green Bond strap.
Still, I also kind of like having the NATO strap hold the watch even off my wrist as I recently realized after having my GMT slide off my new perlon strap due to force of habit of holding just the top of the strap, lol
If a Rolex Submariner could have a NATO strap on, any watch could too
I convert my nato's to zulu then take a bit off the length so no tucking needed. Very easy to do and there's a couple of good how to youtube videos.'s
I use yet another method, great for smaller wrists. I first pull the strap through the end loop of the short end. Then I fold the short strap in on it self, positioning the end loop near the other ones and make a sharp crease. Now you have the buckle and three loops in a row. Now add the watch like you would normally do and position it against the crease, so that this fits underneath in-between the lug tips. This helps keeping it in place. You might also wear it in reverse, but I have never tried this. This method gives you three loops to secure a strap that is a bit shortened, a single underpass and no snaggy bits.
ruclips.net/video/pIYm9ChtkDE/видео.html
Hi TGV
Ohh, thank you so much. Never knew that! I'm now wearing my Seamaster slim tuck, inverted positioned. It makes it sit much more tight on the wrist, more aesthetically pleasing...
As always with good ideas there's a downside to it, though. Certain things has come into the daylight - my nato obviously need a good wash. I've better get going, then 😆
Keep up the good work👍
Haha, FANTASTIC!!!!
If I can get just a few people to enjoy their watches more, my job is done.
As for a mucky strap, between you and me, I kinda like them like that ;-)
Terrible, I know, thank you Kjeld,
Best regards,
TGV
The Date/Day Tudor is a very elegant watch for a gent.
Great tips and NATO attachment/fit methods. I don't have many Zulus, I think I only have 1 Zulu, so the NATO methods would be what I'd use more.
The "standard" or "normal" methods are generally fine and I got used to, but glad to learn of various ways to possibly get a better fit and/or look.
It is sort of amazing how just 1 layer of strap material can make a difference in how the watch looks and lifts off the wrist.
The only method I foresee using is a combination of your "Slim Tuck" for NATO and "Underside Tuck" for Zulu.. Call it the "Slim Underside Tuck"?
What this does is you can get the slimmer profile with the "Slim Tuck", but that leaves some asymmetry if you try and secure it similar to how you would for "standard" or "normal". The outer will have more bulk because of strap material and keeper hardware and the inner side will be slim and low profile.
So, just move the watch head down towards the holes or closer to center of strap like you did for your "Underside Tuck" on the Zulu, then run the strap through like the "Slim Tuck". That way, all the bulk will be on the underside and the outer and inner sides of the strap, when viewed from the watch front, will appear the same.
Thanks again!
Cool! TGV, Thanks again for a very informative video! I got back into watches after finding your channel, and I'm glad I did. It kind of reminds me of a toy windup airplane we used to play with as a kid, we used to say "wind it up and let it go"! Now it applies to watches! Thanks again, Steve M.
Thanks. I just got a Zulu strap today, and you gave me a good wearing solution for it.
Video starts at 4:30
Had no idea there was so many ways to wear those straps. Great video once again.
You are rezponsable of all those natos I already have. Leather, Bond, black, red....now I need springbars for the Omega Flightmaster to fit on a Nsto!!🤤
Enjoy my friend!
Omega flighty, NICE!!!! Very cool watch indeed.
Thank you Pedro,
Best regards,
TGV
I run mine back thru the buckle and buckle pin. Use the first keeper, fold the excess back toward the buckle. Lift the pin and use the first hole of the strap and run in in the opposite way
Can you use a 20mm nato strap for a 21mm seiko flightmaster?
Yeah you should be able too, I used a 18mm NATO on a 20mm watch and it worked just fine, with a nato you can get away with a few mm difference in size and its not noticeable
You can do underside tuck with nato( just do the slim tuck + underside tuck)
VERY clever sir!
Thank you Koosha, nice one.
Best regards,
TGV
Enlightening video, TGV. It took me long enough to figure out how to use a NATO in the first instance. So, it's fantastic that you did a video on the other ways to use both NATO and Zulu. It has been much appreciated.
My first watch (timex weekender) came with a leather nato, and to the day I find it way more comfortable than the steel bracelets because of my small wrist.
Same ! Watching thsi because im planning on gettig some more straps for it.
I'm not really a fan of the *slim tuck...* I've had it suggested to me to cut down on the thickness, but at that point: buy a Zulu. At any rate, thank you for the illustrations here! Great stuff as usual.
An refinement of the "slim tuck" (also called the "down-under") is to slide the watch down the strap so that the length of the 12-o'clock end is great enough to allow the buckle to come under the wrist directly beneath the watch-head. This means that the excess is under the wrist rather than on the side of the wrist. I wear my NATO straps this way all the time now. Until I learnt this method I just couldn't understand the appeal of a NATO strap.
Yeah I accidentally stumbled upon this myself and it definitely enhances the appeal of a NATO by hiding the excess. But I suppose it's less secure given that the redundant extra bit is no longer directly holding onto the watch.
True, but the extra loop really adds no security: any one-piece strap will hold the watch on your wrist if one spring bar fails. If both spring bars fail, then the extra loop will do nothing to stop the watch falling off your wrist. I think it's meant to stop the watch sliding on the strap, but how would that happen? It's never happened to me. Unless divers need that security loop, I can't imagine how it helps. A three-ring Zulu doesn't have it, but Zulus are thicker, and make the watch sit too high. I don't want to cut off the extra loop lest the cut edge irritate my skin; the "down-under" method solves all these problems.
Yeah, kinda defeats the purpose behind the NATO.
Interestingly there is another way, with the watch on the inside of the wrist. Normally on the inside of the right, two reasons. While carrying the rifle on patrol, you can glance across and read the time, also while having a gloved hand. On stag. The lume is less exposed.
Great video! I know you have done a video on affordable watches but could you do a video on Bering???? Thank you -Russell
You sir are a genius, gentleman, scholar and philosopher warrior. This video was brilliant!
Useful video 👍
You planning on doing a video of paul Newman Rolex auction TGV?
Thank you Raymond,
I believe my good friends at Revolution.watch already did.
I certainly will be keeping an eye on it, although a tiny bit out of my price range LOL ;-)
Best regards,
TGV
3:02 - "NATO" strap was not introduced in 1973, the same basic model exist since the 1954* - the A.F.0210; in 1973 was just an update of the specifications, since 1966 the strap for clock and compass receive NATO stock number.
* The 1945 VB Hygienique strap has the same characteristics of the one that became know as "NATO" strap, and even the 1908 "Victor" strap in leather, has the same design, main strap under both clock lugs, secondary under strap for avoid that the clock slip though the main strap.
Old video but for a Nato I like to cut it sometimes. When cutting the extra loop I often get close to the edge, then burn the hell out of it creating a nice charred surface, then finely sand it down for a flush, comfortable fit. I also burn any loose threads, but the biggest thing I do is put a very small ring around my most used setting, usually 4 or 5 holes up. This helps keep it secure and strong. I also like avoiding cutting by doing the slim tuck and putting the excess strap toward the bottom of the wrist. Same as the way the zulu was folded on the bottom, but the extra loop is under there as well. Great video, thanks TGV.
To me if you’re just wearing a NATO or Zulu for looks then it doesn’t matter which one you have, but if you’re wearing it for rugged worthiness- the Zulu wins all day long. The vast majority of NATOs use a spring bar in the buckle, so while it keeps your watch on the strap the only thing keeping the strap on your wrist is still just a spring bar. Zulus on the other hand utilize a sewn in ring as the buckle = much stronger and more secure.
Hola, muy buen video . Me encantan tus vídeos. Tengo una pregunta para ti: ¿ Tienes alguna guía o protocolo para vestir de etiqueta con reloj? O ¿Sólo te vistes con el reloj que se te antoja sin utilizar un código de vestimenta? Lo siento por escribirte en español! :(
You can wear the NATO like a ZULU. Don't loop through the metal loop on the short under strap. Instead, put its metal loop on the back center of the watch. Fold the whole short strap towards the buckle. Now secure your strap like a single piece strap but go through that metal loop first (now in front of the buckle) and then through the buckle. You are welcome. A big thanks to "Nordic Watch Channel" in the video called "4 Ways to wear a NATO strap - Tutorial" for showing this as the last method in that video. It's a complete game-changer!
I just bought a small amount of NATO and ZULU Straps - all the ones you have too. I decided to NOT buy a squale 1521 for 850€ but I just bought 2x Seiko 5 Sport Watches for less than 400$ - I couldnt resist for that price!
Hi. Just want to say first of all u have a great channel. I like the way u review your watches. But i was wondering if u can get the time to review a casio gwg 1000 mudmaster. I've seen other reviews but id like to see one from u before i buy. Or better yet if u can do a review of the SEIKO SBTM239. I HAVENT FOUND ANY REVIEWS FOR THIS SEIKO. THANK YOU.
Great video TGV. I have one question. You said you wore your Lion-Shark in the Jacuzzi. I thought you weren't supposed to do that?? The heat from the hot water thins the lubricants on the watch parts and it can run off, thereby decreasing the lubrication on important places on the watch. Same goes for hot showers.
What a great Video TGV ! I love the fact you put so much thought and organization into this! Bravo Zulo! Ahem,,,
If you have a thicker nato strap (a leather one, for example) you can just take an x-acto knife or a pair of sharp scissors and carefully cut off the extra flap, effectively turning it into a zulu . i've done it with my leather nato, since i didn't like how tall my snzh55 looked on it and i could't be happier with the results. of course if you don't want to tamper with your presumably luxury leather strap, you can always do "the slim tuck" but i still feel that with thicker straps you are not actually removing the bulk, but you are just moving it to a different place. of course with nylon its a whole different story, and i feel that TGV has covered that area pretty well.
So might be a dumb thing but I've been wondering for a while why don't they make a military watch without spring bars? Just a solid case made to be only used with a NATO or ZULU style strap, I'm sure with modern manufacturing and CNC type machines that it would be possible. It would eliminate the possibility of a spring bar failure entirely.
'I wore mine in the jacuzzi in Switzerland" he dismissively stated... Damn TGV, you're far too cool, haha.
Hi TGV - Just can't wear a Nato, did on occasion back in the college days. Rarely see them in the somewhat sophisticated urban crowd. Tend to doubt you sported a Nato in Svizzera? Best Regards, JP (oh, 70's era college days)
Hello TVG,
I have a Rotary Vintage Dive Automatic, which I bought a NATO Strap for because I see you love them. I’ve been able to purchase one to match the colour of my watch face I’d love to show you if you’re interested in seeing?
Also I love the Timex Marlin. I’ve added a few reminders on some auction sites so I get notified when new ones are put up, but they’re getting expensive now.
Anyway back to the straps and the positions. I really like the Underside position of the Zulu strap. I thought it’s a bit of a shame you can’t do that with the Nato strap, but you can! If you use the Folded back tuck on the Nato strap it enables you to move the watch closer towards the strap holes enabling you to have the Underside position of the Zulu strap with a Nato strap.
Keep up the good work! Love the videos just wish I had the funds to build a collection!
JT
For me, I really dislike the aesthetic of the these straps because of the massive bulge created by the excess strap material.
You can always cut them to size, they were originally intended to be easily sizable by soldiers in the field. You hold the strap between two coins to get the rounded end, you cut off the excess close to the coins and you either melt the fray sticking out of the coins directly with a lighter if you don't mind a bit of discoloring, or (with light colored straps) you heat the knife or a piece of metal, wipe off the soot and then melt the fray with it.
The extra (foldable) length was designed into the strap so it could be used either on your skin or over a jacket or wet suit. - A 'deployment' strap.
Yeah... They definitely aren't for everyone. I'm kind of hit and miss on them sometimes too. You can get nylon watch straps in a very thin gauge, simple design that doesn't really fall into either category, but more like a conventional strap, the only difference being that they're one piece instead of two.
Tastes differ, apparently, because the bulge increases the presence of the watch which is something I personally like about a NATO.
Uh interesting I didn't know that there were different ways to wear a NATO or Zulu strap. As usual great video and I learned something new YAY!!!!! Sorry my bad spelling, I just got home from a 12 hour work day. Im a bit tired.
Man I thought I bought a NATO strap but it turns out I had a NATO ZULU strap. I was wondering why I had 5 rings and it wasn't a single band; it's a hybrid. I was all against these types of straps, but I don't like to buy leather, and it's really hard to find nice vegan straps; enter the NATO strap. Well done, my friend.
So... if the NATO was introduced by the British in the 1970s how come Connery wears one in the Bond movie in the early 1960s? also why is it called the NATO if its a Brit Army thing?
I got a new watch a few days ago. Of course I changed the bracelet with a black NATO strap 22 mm wide. I'm so satisfied. It's very comfortable and looks very good. I'm so sory that I'd not heard about NATO strap before. But tha NATO is exactly that what will fit in my life style very good. Also I think that the regular way of wearing is the best. For my personal taste other ways are not good. I plan to buy several Blushark straps because I prefer those than others.
Really like the video but I think you should mix down your audio to mono, the audio wobbles from left to right quite substantially. You could even have two separate tracks (background and music in stereo and voiceover in mono to make things nice and comfortable.
Or position 5 for NATO's
Cut the damn extra strap off, meaning it sits lower,and is a more altogether more comfortable strap,it also means the buckle can go where it's supposed to be,on the bottom of your wrist.
Let's also bear in mind,that the original nylon/leather/canvas straps, the ones that went through both world wars, were all single pass,no extra piece., Making the single pass the more authentic field watch strap.
Forgive me Father Gentry for I have sinned. Bought two Zulus from Gecko. The nylon wears lovely as is, but the leather only has one keeper and didn't tuck well. So. *Bows head* I cut it to size.
Please absolve me.
Ciao. I believe there are two types of ZULU straps. The 3 rings whcih is the simple one strap piece (like the olive color you are showing in the video) and the 5 rings which is like the NATO with the under-watch additional strap, making a double strap passing under the watch. Correct me if I am wrong.
That's why I prefer the Zulu.. you can always get the buckle opposite the watch. I don't like asymmetry like NATOs have. I'll also trim the straps if they are longer than I need. I have found another way of folding the nato. Put it one like the first way but instead of folding the strap through the same loop it just came through, fold it AROUND that loop and back through the first toward the buckle so any excess is opposite the watch. This normally takes all the excess though and makes it a perfect fit.
this is the standard way to mount a NATO G10 strap: ruclips.net/video/ZVSWOkxrXjo/видео.html
with a 5-ring Zulu-style strap, the point is to get the tension off the spring bars without having to pass the strap between the crown & springbar twice...
A fifth way that I discovered by mistake, but the way I like to ware it for every day life: thread the strap end from top of watch till you hits first d ring. Than just simply strap it on your wrist. The watch rides low and buckle is on the underside. Plus I don’t have to tuck the band back around. Very comfortable.
Been watching your channel a lot lately whilst I chose a new watch. Settled on a Seiko Orange Baby Monster, which I don't think you've reviewed. Anyway, I noticed that you wear your watch on your right wrist in this video, as I do. Do you own any "leftie" watches? It would be interesting to know what's on the market.
Hi TGV, you just said that you wore your watch in the jacuzzi. I've always wondered if it's okay to wear a watch or a G shock/digital, in the heat of a jacuzzi or a steam room? Any problems with that?
Instead of underside tucking, I just cut the tab off on all my NATO straps. The watch stays in place fine without it. I also wear my straps inverted. I find it much more comfortable that way, without having the bulky hardware on the outside hitting into things. This is also much more comfortable if you wear your watch on the wrist of your writing hand.
I don't get why anyone would ever do the slim tuck thing, just cut off the extra if you don't like it or buy the strap without the extra in the first place. Personally I don't mind having two layers of nylon between my wrist and my watch, but on leather natos I often end up cutting off the extra because of the leather thickness.
I've tried a gazillion different nato straps and I can't bond with them. As soon as I put back a leather strap it's "awww yeah, now we're talking". Feels it cheapens the watch (and the wearer). Unless you are actually in the military, then I get it.
Love the channel but I'm another who just don't get the NATO thing ... bulky , uncomfortable, awkward to use ... I'm baffled !
You are not the only one, exactly why I made this video! :D
Thank you David,
Best regards,
TGV
To me excess strap goes back OVER the last ring and under the first, then tighten.
That way secure the band two places on your wrist.
Also sad you missed the 5 ring versions.
I did find this useful. I just order a NATO strap for a watch that I was going to get rid of. I like the watch but I was just tired of it. Maybe this will spark that love for the watch I originally had.
Once again, thanks.
You actually CAN have the "bulk" of the NATO on the underside like that last Zulu style. I am in fact wearing it just like that right now.
I have to say when I purchased a nato strap, it was very disappointing. Thin, flimsy and a general low quality feel about it. Can't speak about the Zulu.
extra strap never had that problem extra long straps if I can get to second notch id be happy. how long are Zulu bands? I'm a little short of 9 inches bracelets bands I order extra links to get it over my paws ,zulu would solve that problem
Yes, you can have the underside tuck in the NATO, I’ll tag you on the next comment with a vid. And put it on the UGWC of fb
I wonder haw many people realise who the green, red and black design is actually for
It was designed for The Rifles, the biggest Infantry Regiment in the British Army.
Why not just trim the end so you don't have to deal with tucking the extra bit? I don't have any NATO straps, but would think it would present a cleaner look.
Uhm, sorry for that question, but what are those straps called again at 4:54? I mean, what brand? Can't understand it. Sorry & thanks for that video.
Wears glove ... proceeds to place ungloved thumb on the crystal ;) great Info though seems like there’s a lot things to consider ... what are your preferences in strap in general?
I tried all the ways to tuck as mentioned but I always now just cut the loop off my natos and burn the end with a lighter. It wears better than any of the methods. I tried, and was nervous about mutilating my straps at first, but it truly feels the best. Otherwise, I'd just never bother wearing unmodified natos.
i'd just like to say that there's pretty much no difference between a expensive and a cheap NATO strap, you're just paying for name
You skipped ahead to much. In many of your examples of how the strap should be worn you were assuming that everyone knew what you’re talking about, the video needs to be a little more precisely done.
i use the inverted single pass style with my nato strap then i just move the extra below the wrist. very symmetrical from top view and it's really comfortable
You actually can wear the NATO with a down under tuck like your last zulu position. Slide it down near the holes just as you did and send strap through both rings. This doubles up the extra strap ring with the main ring. I wear it this way and love it. It keeps it slim on the wrist and the bulk is underneath which I prefer.
Nice.. i use a lil bit modification from this..its an "inverted underside slim tuck" , not bulky, reaaally simple , and the most comfortable for me..
I thought this video was going to suck. It turns out I was wrong! Great video! I learned something. This will come in very useful.
Why do they have to be so long. All that excess strap is putting me off getting one. I'm trying to find something as unbulky as possible and all that rolled up excess ruins it. Any suggestions on a strap I should look at?
Try the method IDGuy advocates- far less bulky on the side of the wrist, and of course much lighter than a bracelet.
Hello my friend. I have a brand new skx007 on a nato leather strap. What is your thoughts on nato leather? cheers mate.
it is NATO only the zulu is just a company that got the copy rights and forced companies who made a similar design to rename their products zulu as the name suggests is just those rings that look like african hardware
...something I've been meaning to do for absolutely donkeys." Whaaa? :D
He means for a long time. An expression used here in England.
It's a play on words, donkeys ears are long. Thus "I've wanted to do this for donkey's years" was born. Enjoy.
I don't get why people don't just cut off the excess instead of inventing convoluted ways to tuck it. Simple, cut against a coin edge to get a round shape and melt the edge with a flame to stop it from fraying. I also cut the inner strap to turn my nato into a zulu.
I have hughe wrists and the 3rd zulu way works perfect for me in a nato. any other way I can´t have the buckle centered in my wrist. I engage the extra part as if it had the watch and put it under, that way I get the buckle centered in the back of my wrist.
Do you need to diversify your collection just to diversify? Or should you just get what you like? For example all black faced watches
Get what speaks to you. That said, sometimes stepping outside of your comfort zone opens your eyes to new tastes. If you don't like it, so what. Sell it or pass it on. At least you can say you've ruled out this or that.
love the channel. love the vid. love the lion shark. can't really love the nato. on my thin wrist, there's so much leftover strap. surely someone makes bespoke straps to your wrist size to eliminate this issue!? if not, there's a business idea peeps
One thing I have found with NATO straps and noticed a military guys do is to wear it in the regular style but also use it to hold their wedding ring when they can’t wear it for safety reasons. Before tucking the long end through the keeper ring they feed it through the wedding ring and then it is held in place and can also be tucked under the watch too. The keeper ring and it’s strap then holds the wedding ring against the longer strap and stops the wedding ring from moving about.
Is there a NATO strap like that does not pass a part of it between the wrist and the back of the watch? I have a Garmin Fenix 5X and it has a sensor in the back of it.
i'm new to this wrist watch thing, needless to say i bought my first "nice" watch a casio duro because it has the turning bezel and have found that very handy, i truly hated the rubber-plastic band that came with it so i got a black and grey "bond" strap and i guess i screwed up because its not really long enough to tuck back into the loops i have tried the styles shown here and i think i liked the extra piece left open and the length slid through the best, it still comes out the same length - short but it is closer flatter and less worrisome? i watched a different video a while back about things to do with a nato strap while not wearing it is there anything else i should know about these straps? because i plan on getting more of them
But I don't have a cotton glove......
I wonder why they don’t make one piece leather straps anymore. They used to be the norm where I grew up. The other benefit beyond being secure is that they insulate the cold metal from the wrist (I get bone aches, can’t wear steel).
Can someone please tell me what the opening music is, I know its Wagner but its driving me crazy. Cheers.
There's a version of the slim tuck, that places the double retainer loops at the 6 o/c position, just like the inverted position, but keeps the 'hardware' at the top.
neat tricks... couldn't you use the underside tuck to have the NATO strap hardware underneath your wrist too?