The ONLY WAY to wear a NATO strap!

[@rneiman3]

You mentioned Watch Steward straps. I have several of these & they’re fantastic straps!! They’d a lot like Erika’s Original straps in that they are stretchy, but they are also firm in their construction & will easily support top-heavy watch heads. Plus they don’t add bulk tinder Meath the watch. Extremely comfortable to wear & the clasp. Hardware comes in either stainless or PVD, with or without the ‘Watch Steward’ logo.

[@threehandhunter]

That is great feedback, I have always wanted one (Erika's) but then found myself buying two "other" brands for the same money for different color variations I wanted at the time. I think it is about time for me to go for it! Same for the Watch Steward as well!

[@jltrem]

Well, that's, just like, your opinion, man. An aspect of NATOs that I really appreciate is the fact that they can be worn in a number of ways, which I do.

[@threehandhunter]

Awesome! And it is!

[@habl00pep]

As do i

[@WyvernDotRed]

On the alternative methods, depending on how the NATO hardware aligns, this can help with comfort. For me the traditional way is the most comfortable 75% of the time, the few times it is not I find use in the alternative methods. This is obviously not using the strap as designed or intended, but that does not invalidate the approach in the case that it works. So I do not see that as clickbait, but I do see proclaiming an alternative way as the definitive way to wear a NATO as such. Zulu straps are supposed to lack the second lower loop of fabric, then the thicker fabric helps with keeping the watch in place. This helps with keeping the watch-head lower, making the total package thinner and depending on the piece more stable. It differs from person to person whether the thick fabric or single pass design makes it a Zulu, I am in the latter camp. I agree with seatbelts possibly being too flexible, but this can work amazingly for making light watches feel like they disappear on wrist. The smoother weave does look great, so I agree with your recommendation there. The extra clearance below the crown makes all the difference with my Seiko Chronograph. On it's factory bracelet it digs in to my wrist and gets bothersome overtime, on a NATO it's one of my most comfortable pieces to wear. This applies to my GBX-100 G-Shock too (the infamous hydro-modded one), which has since received adaptors. There is definitely a lot to be gained for me in looking into other NATO strap brands. I've gone with natos.com straps so far, as they are easily and cheaply available in the Netherlands, being a Dutch brand. They're just okay, the fabric is a tad rough but comfortable on wrist and the hardware is very thin, but the straps do seem to last, if developing minor fraying.

[@threehandhunter]

Great reply and info, thank you!

[@threehandhunter]

By the way, if you have any questions about any of the straps you see, or you have any NATO straps you would recommend, please do so here. Thanks and I hoped you enjoyed the video.

[@piquetuk]

I too am slightly obsessed with NATOs but I don't wear them like that, I single pass almost everything, I try not to but it's almost inevitable. For me neater & more comfy. Subbed.

[@threehandhunter]

I just can't get into single pass. Perhaps the way my wrist is shaped? I don't know why, but wish I could!

[@Enidan1111]

Such a great collection of watches and straps! Could you please tell me what strap exactly it is on the watch you're wearing in the beginning when you showed how to put a nato on? I really like the light green olive color of that one.

[@threehandhunter]

Thank you. County Comm. Check out their straps. Same strap as worn and wound, 1/2 the price!

[@kennethsellar5485]

How can I attach a compass to my nato strap that doesn’t fit so how could I macgyver it to fit soemhown

[@threehandhunter]

I’m not sure! There are some very inexpensive options for NATOs out there

[@acesbirds2685]

this the most informative and precise video I've found for nato and zulu straps thanks man you pointed out the specific stuff i was thinking about really nice video

[@threehandhunter]

You are welcome!

[@robertwilliamson6121]

Hint: Find your protruding wrist bone on the outside side of your wrist. Wear your watch on your wrist higher than that bone. You will get less protrusion into the lower part of the back of your hand. Which NATO watch band would you suggest for the Casio Royale AE1200WH-1A world time zones watch? It has 18mm wide lugs. I use this watch for world travel. Sometimes in out of the way places. (Bought a second one for a spare.) Thank you for your in depth video. Take care.

[@threehandhunter]

Thanks, Robert! I don’t have the Casio Royale (always wanted one) so not sure. However the most durable 18mm straps are the “Nato extreme” ones on eBay. Price is right and they are fairly thick but some awesome once broke in. My wrist is 7.25 so I like having thicker 18mm natos personally 👍

[@donnyboon2896]

I am a Marine as well. VMFA-122 Crusaders. (F4 Phantom II). Semper Fidelis! Great videos.

[@threehandhunter]

Hey! Semper Fi, leatherneck! 3/9, Lima company for me! Thanks for the kind words! So glad to hear you are enjoy the videos 👍

[@threehandhunter]

Btw not sure you saw the firearms and watches video, I have a special GSAR on that one!

[@mr.lesexyfishorse9646]

Just bought a diver and found your vid and channel. This is EXACTLY the level of detail I needed to know. Buying a lot of things online this vid has already saved me money since I adjusted my purchase cart from Zuludiver based on your recommendations. Much appreciated!

[@threehandhunter]

You are so welcome! Glad it helped!

[@craigstepp986]

Any recommendations for straps that will fit a 9.75 in wrist?

[@threehandhunter]

Zulu Alpha straps. I did a video review of them. Check those out!

[@craigstepp986]

@@threehandhunter Thanks.

[@mchoch4576]

Personally I wear my Nato Strap the opposite way with the hardware on the inside of the wrist so the metal doesn't catch anything, Plus I burn the extra piece off or I purchase single pass threw straps, and I agree Nato straps totally give new life to an old favorite, Thank you great video and appreciate your opinion . All the best.

[@threehandhunter]

I tried it that way, but eventually switched back! Thank you so much for tuning in!

[@mchoch4576]

@@threehandhunter All good I enjoy the video.

[@lowersaxon]

Interesting lesson and I like your other videos as well. B u t: here are two reasons why I dont wear Natos. First, even with thinner ones it gives your watch some extra height on the wrist and makes many watches at least a little bit top heavy which I dont like. Second, look at your Precista and you will realize (of course you know ;) that the buckle sits crazy wide to the right of the underside of your wrist and hardly can be centered as it should. For me it feels sort of „wrong“ and I‘m simply uncomfortable with and cant get used to it. Well, just said.

[@threehandhunter]

Great observation, I do not wear my nato "centered" as my wrists are usually on my desk and I avoid the buckle being under the wrist. Jump on Instagram and search #nato and you will see 99% of the people wear them like that too. I am not sure if it is purposely or not, but I think it also avoids accidental release of the strap if it rubs up against clothing as well. I hope that made sense to you. Thanks for the comment!

[@Rob954ever]

Yep. I agree. The shorter the lugs, the harder it is to pass them through. I have a couple of Seiko Tunas and they are virtually "lugless" if you know the watch. I find it very hard to get some of my thicker straps through my Arnie. Great video!

[@threehandhunter]

Never owned an "Arnie" but that is great to know! Thanks for the comment!

[@Onemore59]

I had to bend the pins just a LITTLE to get the band to pass through. No problems whatsoever after that .

[@bringemyoungpbuh4123]

I got my step-daughter some for her work watch (Vet). She needs to be able to wash and replace if soiled.

[@threehandhunter]

That’s awesome!! I bet they work perfectly 👌

[@dtgris7291]

I respectfully disagree that there is only one way. The traditional way you listed is one option. But the third way shown in this video is my preference as it gives a cleaner look to the watch IMHO. Ultimately it is preference at the end of the day, and completely agree that NATO straps and their ease of swapping and numerous patterns allows you to all but completely change the character of the watch to fit your personality, mood, or the image you want. Cheers! kzbin.info/www/bejne/nWrHZqeImJh6gac

[@threehandhunter]

Great comments, and cheers!

[@speedmaster001]

Just bought the new Seiko SSK GMT and planned to switch to NATO strap. My concern was though is that the watch comes with the exhibition back display in mineral crystal. Would the strap scratch it?

[@threehandhunter]

Hey! Great choice! No, not at all. Unless you got some mud or something that could scratch underneath (but you probably have bigger problems) the NATO straps act more like a protective shield for the caseback imo. I’ve done it over the years with a lot of Seikos

[@adedaniel4006]

It is common for stainless steel caseback's to get 'NATO rash'. You will not get this with a saphire case back. Not sure about other mineral glass types (especially not acrylic).

[@nunsc]

I agree. 1 way. U gotta use it intended way right

[@threehandhunter]

Boom!

[@mctruehunter]

Great information, cheers 👍

[@threehandhunter]

Thanks for tuning in!!

[@TheDoc7]

The crown is hurting your wrist because the watch is not supposed to sit that close to the wrist.

[@threehandhunter]

Thanks!

[@stevewheeler8640]

I really appreciate the effort here. Very informative!

[@threehandhunter]

Thanks, Steve! Appreciate you watching 👍

[@lastwhtknight3002]

K I hereby proclaim I am heretofore to be referred to as your 44th sub. After watching your other vids my opinion is u will attain a HUGE following. In other words Im impressed. Best regards, 44.

[@threehandhunter]

Thank you Mr. 44!! Mucho gracias!!

[@dazlarg]

Which straps would you recommend for a king turtle and a 7 1/4 inch wrist ?

[@threehandhunter]

I have the same watch, same wrist size. And the head is heavy....so an Extreme Nato strap (you can get them off eBay) they are nice and thick nylon which will hold the turtle up well. I have several of them!

[@dazlarg]

@@threehandhunter sounds good but I’ve looked for extreme NATO’s on eBay and don’t see any?

[@nedflanders3769]

The type of strap you mentioned around 19:12 - what are those called and how is it supposed to be worn? It’s not exactly a nato I guess, but maybe “nato style”? It doesn’t have a buckle or the big metal loops, rather it has smaller a sort of metal hook. I got one of these while googling for nato style straps that are comfortable on wrist. It’s made of a stretchy elastic material which I like. I think I figured out how it’s worn but I’m not sure. Do you have any videos on this specific type of strap? I’m wearing it as sort of single pass, going through the lugs with the hook part on the outer side and hooked into the metal keeper thingy. LoL I’m a total nato noob but I want to learn more because these really suit my field watches and are way more comfortable than a metal bracelet. Thanks for the video! 😊

[@threehandhunter]

They are parachute style straps. You can search “Erica’s Original” straps and there are many videos on how they work! I hope that helps!

[@nedflanders3769]

@@threehandhunter thanks!! 👍🏻😜

[@americanpaisareturns9051]

Any tips on how to soften a NATO up. I recently purchased a Hadley Roma NATO and damn is that thing stiff. It stays hard 😂

[@threehandhunter]

Man…I’ve had a few of those! I have these “wash bags” I can throw into the laundry. A couple cycles later does help. And I have swam with them which can also help. But if it is the kind that I am thinking you have, I have yet to crack the code on that specific material

[@japd7897]

What do you think of NATO getting closer to Russia?.

[@threehandhunter]

Scary

[@matthewpasqua4804]

Great review, advice and help! Thank you Blake!!!

[@threehandhunter]

Thank you, Matthew!

[@ajh5407]

Love the video and recommendations. I have a strap from espirit nato for my glycine that I love. Very thin yet sturdy. For heavy watches I rock zulus from Dagaz watch. Tough thick zulus with tons of length that break in nicely.

[@threehandhunter]

Thank you. You know, I feel more limited because I really "prefer" 300mm. Over the years I have spent so much on straps that were too short for my liking, and the shameful part is that so many were great quality too.

[@roberttai646]

YES! A NATO strap-person!

[@threehandhunter]

About 85% of the time haha

[@tommyhenriquezkayakangler8465]

Oorahh!

[@threehandhunter]

Devil Dog!

[@petervernelen6784]

Thx for video, just ordered another casio duro, and obviously I need to get rid of the original rubber strap and a nato is definitely the way to go but I really don't know where to start ? Thinking a fabric and a leather one, which one (brand) would you recommend for this particular watch and my 7.5inch wrist , keep in mind I'm in Europe, thx in advance

[@threehandhunter]

I love to have some longer straps to tuck away the excess. So on eBay there are extreme NATOs that are my favorite. Look for the length to be 300mm, I have a 7.25 in wrist. Also check out Haveston in the UK. Geckota too!

[@petervernelen6784]

@@threehandhunter Thx think I'll definitely find some nice ones at geckota 👍

[@threehandhunter]

@@petervernelen6784 they have a good length as well at 300mm

[@paulwayling2874]

the extra ring on the zulu is to allow you to 'lock' the strap - do it up like a double d ring belt

[@threehandhunter]

Yes makes sense! Too thick and bulky for my low speed high drag style 😀

[@Illsamustache]

I’ve bought a lot of different NATO straps from a lot of different companies. I too need a 300mm+ strap as well (7.5” wrist). Out of all I’ve tried, County Comm Maratac are by far the best for fit, length and quality.

[@threehandhunter]

I have one on my wrist as I type! Huge fan!

[@MartinLuetzelberger]

I have a specific question. Have you ever seen a strap made like the strap on the G-Shock DW-6900BBN? Metal rings are used in the row of holes to switch off the wear and tear on the row of holes. I have one, the durability is a league of its own and makes most of the others look like garbage. The problem is that I only have this one in black and it is not possible to buy other colors from Casio. Is there a manufacturer who sells such a special band with metal rings? I just can't find anything.

[@threehandhunter]

I’m sorry, Martin. I’m not sure of one. Good luck in your journey and hope you find one!

[@MartinLuetzelberger]

@@threehandhunter Then I'll have to keep looking. This strap is 3mm thick and specially made for the G-Shock adapter. Hardly to be used for other watches, but I like the idea of protecting the row of holes. Perhaps it also makes sense to buy a lot of straps and to swap them often. Then the wear is also kept within limits. Thanks for your answer.

[@steven3379]

Hi, nice Marathon and strap collection! Just subscribed today also!

[@threehandhunter]

Thank you, Steven. I will continue to push out thoughts on my collection (GRAR) will have some "shooting footage" (literally) haha. See you soon, and thank you for the comments!

[@mattlynn2252]

Where did you find the ones with the Union Jack on them??

[@threehandhunter]

Some random person on eBay years ago. You should check there as you may find some there

[@jimmyschiel3863]

My Амфибия's are hard to wear on a leather NATO, but my Командирске's set very nice. The Амфибия with it's domed caseback is about 15mm. They do great on a standard though.

[@threehandhunter]

I can’t do leather NATOs either. Wears too thick for me!

[@jimmyschiel3863]

@@threehandhunter the Восток leather works awesome on the 12mm камендрске or field/pilot watches, they're hand winding, but the Амфибия is an automatic dive watch. 15mm because of the domed caseback.

[@threehandhunter]

@@jimmyschiel3863 I don’t have a hand wind, but I’d love to try one! Thanks for the tip!

[@jimmyschiel3863]

@@threehandhunter the Командирске models are under $50 too. Meranom has several in stock now for $40, or vostockinc.com/ for around $28. You'll have to convert from Rubles to USD, & You'll need Chrome or a translator for the vostockinc site, it's factory direct. Get more than one there's probably 50 different dials, bezels, and case combos in that model. The 2414 movement is awesome and you can regulate it easy.

[@threehandhunter]

@@jimmyschiel3863 great information for everyone!! Thank you!

[@Professional_Youtube_Commenter]

wow that sumo looks cool on a nato. I thought this would be an odd watch because the strap is 20mm and the watch head looks like it should be best on a 22mm but damn that's nice!

[@threehandhunter]

Thanks, and if you do get a sumo, get the mm200 clasp (if you will wear on a bracelet) it is a must!

[@alanwhite7912]

Great collection of straps and watches. I really like NATOs and MNs. I do find that an MN works better with a slim lighter watch though. Seems to work loose during the day in a dive watch or other heavier style.

[@threehandhunter]

I agree Alan and don’t try to throw a football with and MN strap. It will loosen up pretty quick

[@GregHassler]

So you understand that if a spring bar breaks your watch is still retained, that's one of the reasons to wear a NATO. But the way you wear it if the buckle were to break it would just fall off your wrist completely. If you put the retaining strap under your wrist instead of under the watch, the watch will stay on your wrist even if the buckle breaks. THAT is the correct way, the whole point of a NATO strap is for redundancy / retention. You're ignoring the entire reason the retention strap exists and losing that functionality. The way you wear it you might as well cut off that secondary strap as it doesn't serve a purpose.

[@threehandhunter]

Yeah Greg, I do wear them the right way. I actually had one break while in Oregon last summer which kayaking. My Precista was dangling by one spring bar. So, yeah, worked well for me.

[@tariq23able]

Yes enjoyed your videos a lot

[@threehandhunter]

Thank you!! I hope to have a new one out this weekend on the original 62MAS homage!

[@jeffreygleaves2931]

Different strokes for different folks.

[@threehandhunter]

1000% agreed!

[@tonyr669]

Do you even know what Clickbait means? Wow

[@threehandhunter]

It got you, right? 😀

[@tonyr669]

Nice try. I wear my NATO way differently than you. I found out how to do it from an open minded person, not a closed minded person like you.

[@greggusan]

Some good info here, and some lovely strap choices. But I'll have to disagree about the click bait thing. Click bait is when a title or thumb nail alludes to something the vid doesn't deliver on (or just has a nice set of boobs). But I like options. And some of those vids about other ways to wear natos give sound options. I think it's dumb to ignore sound options for the sake of being a "purist".

[@threehandhunter]

Thanks for the feedback

[@buying_Time]

Just clickbait... Then again you are not the one with 15 cm wrists. Wearing a nato standard style does function, but doesn't fit nicely on my small wrists. Making vids about how to wear watches on small wrists was the reason why I started my channel in the first place.

[@threehandhunter]

Yes this was clickbait 👍

[@UK-Blue]

It's quite insulting having a Union Jack 🇬🇧 on a Marine Nationale by the way. Even though I do have a MN strap.

[@threehandhunter]

As a US Marine, I get it. However I definitely would not have a green/yellow strap with a Union Jack 🇬🇧 logo!!! I even know that haha

[@japd7897]

Putin disliked this video.

[@threehandhunter]

Haha 😂

[@LAIRD.59]

your ONLY to wear a NATO is the one way I DONT wear a NATO

[@threehandhunter]

When it’s 110 degrees for about 40 days straight…it becomes a necessity 😅

[@archie2archie]

What a numpty for thinking and saying out loud "3 or 4 ways of wearing strap is clickbait"

[@threehandhunter]

😉

[@pelicanhead]

No such thing as a watch head, it is a watch. You are attaching a strap to a watch not a watch head. Would you attach a chain to the head of a pocket watch? It sounds ludicrous so stop it.

[@threehandhunter]

No thanks!