NATO watch strap

NATO watch straps (or simply "NATO Straps") are watch straps originally developed by the British Ministry of Defence for wartime usage. The nylon composition of the strap prevents metal from touching the skin of the wearer and provides stability while wearing it. The durability of the strap prevents moisture from wicking away on the skin, as well as keeping the watch on the wrist of the wearer even if the one of the spring bars of the wristwatch were to pop out. The NATO strap is a one piece strap slid through the spring bar of the watch case and then slid into the appropriate notch, and then folded back to secure excess strap and prevented from sticking out of the main watch strap portion.
History
In 1973, the British Ministry of Defence (MOD) added to their catalog of standard issue gear a new item named, “Strap, Wrist Watch”. These wristwatch straps were classified as being “Admiralty Grey” in color, 20mm in width, and they were equipped with chrome-plated brass buckles. The strap was constructed from two pieces of nylon fabric — a longer piece to wrap around the wrist, and another shorter piece that loops behind the watch case to prevent the case from moving up and down the strap. These MOD watch straps were eventually nicknamed G10 straps in reference to the G10 form that had to be filled out to order one. The NATO designation came about in reference to the 13-digit inventory “NATO Stock Number” (NSN) assigned to the strap. Since then, the G10 NATO strap has become a favourite among watch fans everywhere.
Popular usage of the NATO strap includes being used in James Bond Movies, in order to accessorise and provide strength to the watches worn by Bond. Following the popularity of the NATO Strap being used in James Bond movies, the NATO strap became a staple of watches produced by Omega, including releasing limited edition versions of the strap in their watch collections.
NATO straps are known for being relatively inexpensive. Most straps are made of nylon and stainless steel fasteners that guide the strap through the formation of the watch. NATO straps are also known for being easy to clean and swap around for daily use. NATO straps are available in different sizes, lengths and designs to accommodate a wide variety of designs and watch composures. NATO straps are also used amongst deep sea divers and water-sports.

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