Can Any Watch Use a NATO Strap?

watch compatibility with a NATO strap

How to Check NATO Strap Watch Compatibility

If you want to use a NATO strap on your watch, then make sure it satisfies the following conditions:

1. Removable Spring Bars

Spring bars are the standard connectors for the straps of most watches. To use a NATO strap, you need to be able to remove the bars and strap, and re-attach the spring bars on their own.

2. Straight Strap Connection

If your strap lines up straight against the face of the watch, then it's a good sign that a NATO strap will be compatible.

3. No Quick Release Bars (or replace them)

If you have quick release spring bars on your watch, then you will need to replace them with normal bars, as they're not compatible with a NATO strap.

Watch Types That Usually Always Work

If you have a classic metal watch strap/bracelet style strap, then these usually fit perfectly fine, as they have traditional straight spring bars. Think Rolex Submariner, Tag Heuer Carrera, etc.

Watch Types That Usually Don't Work

Any type of hard moulded or glued watch strap won't work, as they don't have spring bars for attachments.

If there are any protruding sections in your watch strap attachment, or any custom inserts in the attachment, then this won't leave a flat surface, and so won't be compatible with a NATO strap.

Also if you're using a smart watch with a heart beat sensor, a NATO strap covers the bottom of the watch, so this feature is likely not going to work with a NATO strap.

If you need to purchase a new NATO strap, checkout the fantastic new range at our store online here.

Our customer's favourites

Classic Military Style Watch Strap Bond- Collection - Black & Grey Classic Military Style Watch Strap Bond- Collection - Black & Grey
Classic Military Style Watch Strap Bond- Collection - Black & Grey £14.99
Classic Military Watch StrapThe Original Rugged Strap – Built for Any Mission Every great watch deserves a strap it can rely on. The Classic Military Watch Strap is tough, versatile, and timeless — ready for the office, the outdoors, or your next adventure. Trusted by soldiers, collectors, and everyday watch fans alike, it’s the strap that never lets you down. Why You’ll Love It Mission-ready durability – 600D ballistic nylon and reinforced stitching. Built to last – marine-grade 316L stainless steel hardware resists sweat, salt, and water. All-day comfort – lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. Extra security – one-piece design keeps your watch safe, even if a spring bar fails. Huge colour choice – more colours and styles than any other retailer. Everyday versatility – looks just as good on a Seiko as it does on a vintage Rolex. Technical Specs Strap width: 18mm, 20mm, 22mm (choose your size) Strap length: 260mm (fits most wrist sizes) Material: Heavy-duty 600D ballistic nylon Hardware: Marine-grade 316L stainless steel buckle & keepers Style: Classic military one-piece design Colours: Wide range available Military SpecFirst developed for the British Ministry of Defence in the 1970s, the military strap is famous for its rugged simplicity and fail-safe security. Whether you’re diving, climbing, or just heading to work, the one-piece design ensures your watch stays put — whatever the mission. Bundle ValueStandard Issue Classic Military Strap: £14.95 each Buy Any 3 Classic Military Straps and Save 15% – Discount applied automatically at checkout. ⚡ Add the Classic Military Watch Strap to your field watch or daily beater and be ready for anything. BUY WITH PEACE OF MIND TODAY:ALL NOTO STRAPS COME WITH OUR 90 DAY RISK FREE TRIAL | LIFETIME GUARANTEE | 1800+ 5 STAR REVIEWS
Premium Woven Military Style Watch Strap - Black, Grey and Beige (No Time To Die Strap) Premium Woven Military Style Watch Strap - Black, Grey and Beige (No Time To Die Strap)
Premium Woven Military Style Watch Strap - Black, Grey and Beige (No Time To Die Strap) £20.99
Get This Offer Today: Buy Any 3 Premium Or Classic Military Style Straps and Pay Just £30 Total! (Discount applied automatically when 3 straps are added to cart) James Bond No Time To Die Strap Faithful Replica- Ever wanted an Omega Military style Strap but couldn't justify spending three figures? We have created our own stunning "Bond No Time To Die Inspired" Military style strap with soft woven nylon with a solid 316L stainless steel buckle and brushed stainless steel squared off keepers, there is no compromise on quality. See for yourself. Length: 290mm including buckle. Thickness: 1.27mm. Available in 3 band widths when stock available: 18mm, 20mm, 22mm
Classic Military Style Strap - Vintage James Bond Classic Military Style Strap - Vintage James Bond
Classic Military Style Strap - Vintage James Bond £14.99
Classic Military Watch StrapThe Original Rugged Strap – Built for Any Mission Every great watch deserves a strap it can rely on. The Classic Military Watch Strap is tough, versatile, and timeless — ready for the office, the outdoors, or your next adventure. Trusted by soldiers, collectors, and everyday watch fans alike, it’s the strap that never lets you down. Why You’ll Love It Mission-ready durability – 600D ballistic nylon and reinforced stitching. Built to last – marine-grade 316L stainless steel hardware resists sweat, salt, and water. All-day comfort – lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. Extra security – one-piece design keeps your watch safe, even if a spring bar fails. Huge colour choice – more colours and styles than any other retailer. Everyday versatility – looks just as good on a Seiko as it does on a vintage Rolex. Technical Specs Strap width: 18mm, 20mm, 22mm (choose your size) Strap length: 260mm (fits most wrist sizes) Material: Heavy-duty 600D ballistic nylon Hardware: Marine-grade 316L stainless steel buckle & keepers Style: Classic military one-piece design Colours: Wide range available Military SpecFirst developed for the British Ministry of Defence in the 1970s, the military strap is famous for its rugged simplicity and fail-safe security. Whether you’re diving, climbing, or just heading to work, the one-piece design ensures your watch stays put — whatever the mission. Bundle ValueStandard Issue Classic Military Strap: £14.95 each Buy Any 3 Classic Military Straps and Save 15% – Discount applied automatically at checkout. ⚡ Add the Classic Military Watch Strap to your field watch or daily beater and be ready for anything. BUY WITH PEACE OF MIND TODAY:ALL NOTO STRAPS COME WITH OUR 90 DAY RISK FREE TRIAL | LIFETIME GUARANTEE | 1800+ 5 STAR REVIEWS
Premium Thick Woven Military Style Watch Strap - Black & Grey Bond Premium Thick Woven Military Style Watch Strap - Black & Grey Bond
Premium Thick Woven Military Style Watch Strap - Black & Grey Bond £20.99
DISCOUNTS FOR MULTI STRAP PURCHASES APPLIED AT CHECK AUTOMATICALLYAll Military style Straps are not built the same. Our Premium Military style straps are some of the highest quality straps available on the market as a result of upgraded materials and build quality.We use a denser nylon weave which means the 1.4mm thick fabric is stronger and has a silkier finish for added comfort and as well as luxurious lucent like finish. As well as upgrading the fabric we use a 600D nylon thread for stitching which is stronger and less prone to snags and the buckles are secured with double stitching unlike cheaper alternatives.Finally we have upgraded the hardware: We use a brushed 316L Marine grade stainless steel in a brushed finish for low reflection. The keepers are milled from one piece of steel and the buckles are 3.24mm thick as opposed to the standard 2.6mm on Military style classics which again means additional strength and added durability.Changing your watch strap brings many benefits: Whether you are looking for an aesthetic refresh for your favourite watch, or you want to complement your wardrobe with a fresh colour or style. There’s no doubting the added bonus of bringing new comfort and resilience to your watch by upgrading to one of our Premium Military style watch straps.If you are putting your tool, dive or aviator watch under extreme conditions there’s additional peace of mind from wearing a Premium Military style strap in case of a spring bar failure.If you are considering the upgrade from a Military style Classic the differences are clear: The Premium Military style Strap is thicker, more durable and softer to wear and the lucent like sheen is complementary to any fine watch. With a length of 285mm the Premium Military style will fit any wrist from 6-9 inches Available in 18mm, 20mm and 22mm when stock is available Comes with our no nonsense delight and perfect fit promise- 30 days no hassle returns.

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