A NATO strap does not have two parts. It is one single strap that you thread under the watch through both spring bars. That is why you can fit and change it without a tool. This guide applies to our NATO straps made of nylon and leather. Both are made the same way.
The spring bars must already be in place on the watch. If they are missing, fit them first. Our guide how to change a watch strap shows how. As the strap is simply threaded through, it also fits watches with fixed bars, where nothing can be removed. You will find more straps for fixed bars in a separate category.
The width of the strap must match the lug width of your watch exactly. Our guide how to measure the lug width and length explains how to measure it.
Guide: fitting a NATO strap
Thread the long end of the strap between the spring bar and the case. Do the same on the other side of the watch.
Then pull the strap through the metal keeper at the end. The NATO strap is now fitted.
Put the watch on and close the strap like a normal strap. Put the pin of the buckle through the hole that fits your wrist.
Tuck the loose end back through the last metal keeper, it is large enough for this. Do not cut a nylon strap, or the fabric will fray.
To change the strap, work in reverse order: take off the old strap, then thread the new one through as described above.
How do you clean a NATO strap?
Nylon and leather are cleaned differently. In both cases, first take the strap off the watch so that no water reaches the case.
Nylon NATO strap
Add a little washing-up liquid or mild soap to lukewarm water and let the strap soak for a few minutes.
Brush the strap with a soft brush, for example an old toothbrush. A hard brush damages the fabric.
Rinse the strap with clear water until there is no soap left.
Press the water out with a cloth and let the strap dry in the open air. Do not put it on a radiator or in direct sun. Only put it back on the watch once it is completely dry.
Leather NATO strap
A leather strap never goes into water. First clean it dry with a cloth or a soft brush. Then wipe it with a barely damp cloth, with a little leather cleaner if needed. Let it dry in the open air, not on a radiator or with a hairdryer. Finally, apply a thin layer of leather care. You will find more tips in our guide cleaning and caring for a leather strap.
Looking for a new strap? Take a look at our NATO straps in nylon and leather.