How to Fit a NATO Strap to Your Watch: A Simple Guide
NATO straps are a popular choice for watch enthusiasts due to their comfort, durability, and unique design. They are a perfect fit for both sports and classic watches, and the installation process is simple and requires no special tools. In this article, you will find a step-by-step guide on how to install a NATO strap on your watch.
What do you need?
- A NATO strap that fits the width of the watch (usually measured in millimeters).
- A springbar tool (optional, but useful for removing and installing springbars).
- Your watch.
Step-by-step guide
1. Remove the old belt
- Use the springbar tool: If your watch has an existing strap, you will need to remove it first. Use spring bar tool to press gently on the spring bars (the small metal pins that hold the strap in place) to loosen the strap.
- Be careful: Make sure you don't lose the spring bars when you remove the strap, as they will be reused with the NATO strap.
3. Prepare the NATO strap
- NATO straps usually consist of one long strap and an additional "loop" to secure the strap.
- Lay the strap flat and identify which side should be the front (visible on the wrist) and which side should be the back (against the skin).
4. Thread the NATO strap through the watch
- Start by threading the end of the NATO strap under the top spring bar (closest to the 12 o'clock position).
- Then thread the strap over the back of the watch and under the bottom spring bar (closest to the 6 o'clock position).
5. Adjust the strap
- Thread the strap through the loop on the NATO strap to secure it. This provides extra stability and prevents the watch from falling off your wrist if one of the spring bars comes loose.
- Adjust the strap so that the watch sits in the middle of the strap.
6. Attach the strap around your wrist
- Pass the long end of the strap through the buckle and adjust the length so that the watch fits comfortably.
- Any excess strap can be threaded back through the loops for a clean and secure finish.
