SKU Code: NATO22MM/RBO
This classic NATO watch band is made from fast-drying ballistic nylon webbing in LGBT colors. This high-tech material is ideally suited for military watch straps due to its robustness, comfort, and longevity. The watch straps are perfect for all extreme activities because their design significantly reduces the risk of losing a watch. This is achieved by the strap holding the watch securely at two different points, making it virtually impossible for it to come off the wrist.
The history of the NATO strap is interesting. It started around 40 years ago with a single grey 20 mm band and has since expanded. Initially, new colors were introduced such as RAF Blue, Black, and Navy Blue, followed by the James Bond pattern strap and Olive Green. From there, we have developed more variants in regimental colors, Search and Rescue (SAR) straps (which are orange), and an incredible range of designs in national colors, police unit colors, and various camouflage options for specific situations. The straps are frequently used by military units outside the UK and are also purchased by serving military personnel for use on a wide variety of military watches.
Currently, we manufacture over 200 different variants in all sorts of colors. The majority of these straps are made for retail sale, but some custom straps are sold via various procurement contracts.
The original specification of what we today term "the NATO strap" was laid down by the UK Ministry of Defence as Defence Standard 66-47 Issue 2, published on 30 March 2001. The preceding specifications were Def Stan 66-47 Issue 1 dated 13 November 1992, and two earlier standards: Def Stan 66-15 (Part 1) Issue 1 – Strap (Nylon) dated 30 November 1973, and Def Stan 66-15 (Part 2) Issue 1 – Strap (Leather/Nylon) dated 31 January 1974. The current specification data sheet can be downloaded at . Although this specification is not entirely fixed, it closely matches the design we use when making straps. Most bulk contracts, however, insist on them being stitched around the buckles.
We have supplied these straps for over twenty years to a wide range of clients, including serving military personnel, police, emergency services, exploration units, Search and Rescue teams, oil and gas companies, marine salvage and exploration businesses, and companies operating in tropical or desert locations. The reality is that nothing beats a NATO strap for these organizations because they can be easily washed, dry in minutes, and do not rot like leather or split like silicone.
NATO straps are also ideal for watches made by all leading military contractors, as well as robust civilian watches such as Seiko, Rolex, Breitling, and Pulsar, to list just a few.
