The NATO strap: more than a fashion statement

In recent years, popularity over the simple, yet iconic, stainless steel watch bracelet with customisable stripes has been all the buzz in the watch industry. This trendy accessory comes in a variety of colours and sizes. In truth, the longstanding tradition behind the design and features of the NATO strap is rooted in military practicality.

The initial debut of the NATO strap was by the British Ministry of Defence (MoD) in 1973. Back then, there was only one version and it had a singular tone: admiralty grey. Nicknamed the G-10, British Special Forces were required to fill out a G-1098 form before being issued the strap.

The material of the strap was nylon and had a width of 20mm. The buckles were chrome-plated brass and held an appeal within the military for its durability and practicality. With two spring bars and added length so troops could wear a watch on top of their uniforms, the design ensured that watches would stay secure on the wrist.

Soon after the initial roll-out to the British Special Forces, the strap was modified to uniquely represent different British military regiments. Where the term “NATO” derives from is due to the alphanumeric code used in the British MoD to identify all standardised material items of supply. The code was called the NATO Stock Number (NSN).

So, while the NATO strap is not actually a NATO-branded strap, it is an important article of clothing that was used by forces of a NATO member country.

Moreover, while many might assume the most iconic featurette of the strap was seen in the first four James Bond films, the shots of the watch worn by Sean Connery in Goldfinger were actually filmed nine years before the launch of the original NATO strap back in 1973.  Even so, the appeal of the striped nylon band holding Bond’s Rolex Submariner in place echoes a similar style and fashion to that of a true NATO strap, to the extent that is was called the “Bond NATO”.

Beyond aesthetic, the NATO straps worn by civilians today retain the same appeal to durability and practicality as in its design at the outset.