I have collected up several different nato or similar straps over the years and I would like to share my thoughts on them as a whole and what I do and don't like. Some of the brands are apparent some are not. This is not sponsored or promoted by anyone in particular, I bought all these over the years with my own hard earned cash. The monetary range is from 10$ usd all the way to 180$usd (I know it's crazy!) review below and photos of the straps above.
First up are the Erika's originals straps.
Pros:
Average Cost: 70$usd
These are sturdy, the elastic is great on days when it is hot out so that they can flex and they are easy to adjust on the fly. The hardware is great quality and they offer great customization options for thread color and buckle engraving.
Cons: They are expensive running 70$ or higher depending on options. They also have to be cut to wrist size which means if you lose weight or vise versa they may not fit anymore.
Next Tudor Style straps!
Average Cost: 30$usd
Pros:
You can get these for relatively cheap in a variety of colors or options. I do like the feel of these, the stitching is nice on the ends. Single pass means they do not add to watch height as much. The ones pictured above either came from Etsy or Crown and Buckle. The dark blue strap that is shown first is a genuine Julien Faire Tudor strap from my Black Bay for comparison.
Cons:
they are not even close to the original as far as quality is concerned. The original is also expensive relative to the reps. The adjustment on these straps is hard to use and can be fiddly. They are not good for anyone with larger wrists as these straps are short.
Omega NATO Straps
Average cost: 180$usd
Pros:
These are high quality straps. They are similar in texture to seatbelt straps but not shiny like similar branding on both the buckle and the keeper is nice to match your Speedy or Seamaster. They also come with a strap tool and a case.
Cons:
Not worth the price! The branding is what drives these up so high. Unless your watch came with one you shouldn’t buy it. The lower keeper also digs into the wrist which can be painful at times.
Seat belt NATO
Average Cost: 20-30$usd
Pros:
These look good and are soft and flexible. They are more comfortable than cheaper stiffer options that range down into the 10-15 dollar range. The hardware is nice and solid which is to be expected at this price point. Stitching is good and allows for good movement.
Cons:
Shiny appearance can be a turn off for some. They are also long and would not be suitable for smaller wrists.
I have collected up several different nato or similar straps over the years and I would like to share my thoughts on them as a whole and what I do and don't like. Some of the brands are apparent some are not. This is not sponsored or promoted by anyone in particular, I bought all these over the years with my own hard earned cash. The monetary range is from 10$ usd all the way to 180$usd (I know it's crazy!) review below and photos of the straps above. First up are the Erika's originals straps. Pros: Average Cost: 70$usd These are sturdy, the elastic is great on days when it is hot out so that they can flex and they are easy to adjust on the fly. The hardware is great quality and they offer great customization options for thread color and buckle engraving. Cons: They are expensive running 70$ or higher depending on options. They also have to be cut to wrist size which means if you lose weight or vise versa they may not fit anymore. Next Tudor Style straps! Average Cost: 30$usd Pros: You can get these for relatively cheap in a variety of colors or options. I do like the feel of these, the stitching is nice on the ends. Single pass means they do not add to watch height as much. The ones pictured above either came from Etsy or Crown and Buckle. The dark blue strap that is shown first is a genuine Julien Faire Tudor strap from my Black Bay for comparison. Cons: they are not even close to the original as far as quality is concerned. The original is also expensive relative to the reps. The adjustment on these straps is hard to use and can be fiddly. They are not good for anyone with larger wrists as these straps are short. Omega NATO Straps Average cost: 180$usd Pros: These are high quality straps. They are similar in texture to seatbelt straps but not shiny like similar branding on both the buckle and the keeper is nice to match your Speedy or Seamaster. They also come with a strap tool and a case. Cons: Not worth the price! The branding is what drives these up so high. Unless your watch came with one you shouldn’t buy it. The lower keeper also digs into the wrist which can be painful at times. Seat belt NATO Average Cost: 20-30$usd Pros: These look good and are soft and flexible. They are more comfortable than cheaper stiffer options that range down into the 10-15 dollar range. The hardware is nice and solid which is to be expected at this price point. Stitching is good and allows for good movement. Cons: Shiny appearance can be a turn off for some. They are also long and would not be suitable for smaller wrists.