To be or NATO be?

The divisive story of the NATO strap. And why it's great.

The NATO watchstrap, also known as the G10 strap, is a ubiquitous accessory among watch enthusiasts and casual wearers alike. Its distinctive design and durability have made it a popular choice for many years, and its history can be traced back to the military.

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In the 1970s, the British Ministry of Defence was looking for a new watchstrap design that could be worn by soldiers in a variety of situations. The goal was to create a strap that was both durable and functional, and that could be easily swapped out if needed. After experimenting with a variety of designs, the ministry settled on a simple, one-piece strap made from nylon.

The resulting design featured a long strap that could be threaded through the watch's lugs and around the wrist, with a second shorter piece that could be threaded through the buckle. The end result was a strap that was both secure and comfortable to wear, with no excess material to get in the way.

The name "NATO" comes from the strap's designation as the "General Service Watch Strap" in the British Army's "Defence Standard 66-15".

The strap was also referred to as a "G10" strap, as soldiers were required to fill out a form (known as a G1098) in order to obtain one.

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The NATO strap quickly gained popularity among soldiers, as well as among civilians who appreciated its rugged design and versatility. The strap was widely adopted by other NATO countries, and it soon became a standard issue item for soldiers in a variety of armies around the world. One of the key features of the NATO strap is its durability. Made from high-quality nylon, the strap is resistant to moisture and wear, and is designed to last for years. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor activities, as well as for everyday wear. The strap is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing wearers to choose a style that best matches their outfit or personal taste. In addition, the strap can be easily swapped out, allowing wearers to quickly and easily change the look of their watch without having to buy a new one.

James Bond, the iconic fictional spy created by author Ian Fleming, is known for his impeccable taste and style, which includes his choice of watch accessories. In the 1964 film "Goldfinger," Bond wore a Rolex Submariner watch with a nylon strap, which was later identified as a NATO strap. This scene helped popularize the NATO strap among watch enthusiasts and fashion-conscious individuals, and it has remained a popular choice for its durability and versatility. Bond's influence on popular culture has made the NATO strap a timeless classic in the world of watch accessories.

The NATO strap has also become a popular choice for watch enthusiasts, who appreciate its classic and timeless design. The strap's simplicity and functionality are highly valued in the watch community, and many high-end watch brands now offer NATO-style straps as an option for their watches. Despite its popularity, the NATO strap has not been without controversy. Some purists argue that the strap is too utilitarian and lacks the sophistication of more traditional leather straps. Others have criticized the strap's thickness, which can make it difficult to fit under some watch cases.

Despite these criticisms, the NATO strap remains a popular choice for many watch enthusiasts and casual wearers alike. Its durability, versatility, and classic design make it a staple accessory that is sure to remain popular for years to come. Whether you're heading out on a rugged outdoor adventure or simply looking for a stylish and functional accessory, the NATO strap is a great choice for any watch enthusiast.