In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to install a NATO watch strap. It might look a little tricky the first time, but once you’ve done it a couple of times, it’ll feel quick and natural.
Step 1 – Gather What You Need
First, get everything set up. You’ll need:
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2 spring bars
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A spring bar tool (to fit the bars)
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Your watch (with the old strap already removed)
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Your NATO strap
Step 2 – Fit the Spring Bars to Your Watch
Unlike a two-piece strap, the first step with a NATO is fitting the spring bars to your watch. Use your spring bar tool to put them in place.
Tip: Start by sliding one end of the spring bar into the lug hole. Then, use the tool to gently push the other end in until it clicks securely into position.
Step 3 – Separate the Short End from the Long End
If you haven’t already, separate the short end of your NATO strap from the long end. Doing this first makes threading the strap through your watch much easier.
Step 4 – Thread the Long End Through the First Spring Bar
Lay your NATO strap flat with the buckle and keepers facing downward. With the watch lying face down, feed the long end of the strap through the spring bar at the 12 o’clock position.
Tip: To double-check it’s the right way around, flip the watch over. The buckle and loops should be on the front side, with the buckle sitting at the 12 o’clock end.
Step 5 – Thread the Long End Through the Second Spring Bar
Pass the long end of the NATO strap through the second spring bar at the 6 o’clock position. Pull it through so the strap sits flat beneath the watch case.
Step 6 – Loop the Short End Through the Long End
Now take the long end of the NATO strap and feed it through the loop on the short end (the piece with the buckle).
Tip: Once the strap is in place, you can slide the watch head along the strap to make sure it sits neatly in the middle between the loops.
Step 7 – Secure the Strap on Your Wrist
Slide your wrist through the strap and fasten the buckle as you would with a standard watch strap. Feed any excess length back through the keepers for a tidy fit.
That’s it—your NATO strap is installed, secure, and ready to wear.
And there you have it—you’ve successfully fitted your NATO watch strap. Once you’ve done it a couple of times, it becomes second nature and takes less than a minute.
NATO straps are versatile, durable, and available in countless colours and styles. Explore our full range at Notostrapstore.com and find the perfect strap to match your watch and your style.
If you are looking to swap your two-piece watch strap- go to our tutorial here
If you are looking to fit your watch to a Marine Nationale elastic strap- go here
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