Nato Watch Strap

£75.00

Size

Leather

Buckle

Quantity

Shipping & Return

We offer free standard UK shipping. Orders under £150 are shipped via Royal Mail 2nd Class (uninsured, untracked), while orders over £150 are sent via Royal Mail Special Delivery (insured and tracked). We recommend Special Delivery for full insurance.

Returns are accepted within 14 days of receiving your order. Please contact us at info@tannerbates.co.uk to arrange a return.

👉 For full shipping and return details, click here.

Handmade in Devon · Full grain vegetable tanned leather · Built to last

Made in small batches

Nato Leather Watch Strap - Safe but Stylish

Our Nato Watch Strap is fully hand made. Featuring our full grain, vegetable tanned Italian leather and solid brass or stainless steel fittings.

Available in three lug widths, with a choice of buckles.

Choice of 3 different leathers
1.5mm thick leather (approx)
Choose from 3 lug widths (width of the strap where it meets the watch)
280mm Total Length (not including buckle)
240mm Total Length (to largest hole)
155mm Total Length (to smallest hole)
70mm Between Keepers (where your watch is fitted)

These straps are straight, and are available in a standard length of 280mm with 13 holes, 7mm apart (approx). We opt for a matching thread colour, hand stitched, and finish the strap with one of our solid brass or stainless steel fittings.

Very disappointed

Damaged leather, looked tatty after one day’s wear. I emailed Tanner Bates twice to discuss but received no reply. I suspect they are a premium price front for inferior non UK products

Hi Laurence,

I hope you're well. Thank you for your recent order and for your emails, also for your review and feedback.

Please accept our sincere apologies for the slightly slow reply. Unfortunately your emails landed in our 'spam' folder and whilst I do try to cast an eye through the spam folder occasionally to see if any emails have ended up there mistakenly. As soon as we found your emails, we responded.

Please be assured that the leather taking on marks is all completely normal and will not affect the performance or durability of the strap. We are yet to hear of one of our Nato straps failing. We have been using the same design and leather since we first launched the strap many years ago.

The fittings are stainless steel, the thread is a tough rot resistant braided polyester thread and the leather is a full grain vegetable tanned leather sourced from a world renowned small Tuscan tannery. Each strap is individually made, entirely by hand here at our small Devon workshop by one of our experienced and skilled makers, either Matt or Matthew.

We always source the finest raw materials possible. One of the characteristics of a full grain vegetable tanned leather is that all the natural marks that were on the skin of the animal will be visible on the surface of the leather, the hides are much more characterful than mass produced leather.

The leather will take on marks in line with how it is used (especially from any exposure to moisture or wet conditions). Where a strap passes through a buckle, either on a belt, a watch strap or bag, the leather will mark.

The first marks are always the most painful, however with time and use, the leather will develop its patina, unique to you the user. The leather will deepen and darken in colour, the original marks will go deeper into the leather with every application of conditioner, being disguised by newer marks, ultimately the leather will transform completely.

Watch straps by their very nature do receive heavy use, and so this transformation will be much faster than something like a journal that might live on a desk.

It is advisable to occasionally condition the leather with a quality natural leather care product such as the Gilboy's leather conditioner balsam, especially if the leather gets wet. This will help to keep the leather hydrated and in good condition.

I really hope this helps, and we very much hope you're enjoying wearing your strap and seeing the patina develop.

Once again, please accept my sincere apologies for the slightly delayed reply caused by your emails being diverted into our 'spam' folder.

If you have any other questions or require any other information at all, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Many thanks,

Rick

More details

MORE DETAILS

Tanner Bates Nato Watch Strap

Leather: We offer a choice of 3 different leathers from our Dakota range. Full grain vegetable tanned leather, carefully sourced from a small, traditional Italian tannery.

Thread: Hand stitched with a rot resistant polyester thread for enhanced durability.

Buckle options: The width at the lugs determines the size of the buckle. The Nato strap is straight cut. Buckles are available in a choice of finishes.

Lug width: 18 – 22mm (2mm increments)

Strap Length: A standard strap length of 280mm excluding the buckle. Most people choose to style their Nato Strap by folding the tail end round and back through the loop(s).

Love your Leather

Our Naturally tanned leather is tough and can take a battering. We stitch it with a durable rot resistant thread which will give years of service. Occasionally a dose of Gilboy’s Leather Conditioner Balsam or Tanner Bates Liquid wax will help keep the leather in good condition.

Naturally tanned leather benefits from and will look its very best if given an occasional dose of natural waxes and oils.

Please note, one of the characteristics of our full grain, vegetable tanned leather is that it will transform over time and with use. It will take on marks as the patina develops. This is completely natural and unavoidable. We cannot guarantee against crocking.

A word about leather staining

One of the characteristics of our full grain, vegetable tanned leather is that it will transform over time and with use. It will take on marks as the patina develops. This is completely natural and unavoidable.

Vegetable tanned leather is not water repellent in its natural form and will absorb water, ink, oil – any liquid in fact which will stain irredeemably. It is however, the staining, scuffs and scratches that help build the patina so loved in old leather.

Instructions on how to build Patina

Firstly, naturally tanned vegetable tanned leather loves to be used, even abused. Above all don’t be precious or protective about your leather - but do look after it.

When the leather gets wet, simply let it dry naturally away from heat sources, then feed with Gilboy’s Leather Conditioner Balsam. It is the process of the leather getting wet and drying that will dehydrate it the most. Occasionally feeding the leather will help to replace any natural fats and oils lost and help to keep the leather hydrated. Please note that the application of any leather conditioner will likely deepen and/or darken the colour of the leather.

Gilboy’s Leather Conditioner Balsam will help to keep your leather hydrated and supple, build the patina and increase longevity. Occasional feeding with waxes will deepen stains, marks, scratches and scuffs, building a superb patina reminiscent of antique leather cases and inlaid leather desktops.

Watch straps will get stained by water from hand, car and dish washing. The leather will also absorb natural oils and sweat from the skin of the wearer. The first stain is always the most painful.

Feed with Gilboy’s Leather Conditioner Balsam to deepen stains, scuffs and scratches blending them deeper into the leather forming the foundation of a strong patina.

With time, the signs of life, use and activity will leave their marks and get absorbed into the leather. The wax treatment is essential to embed layers of staining, which will build an unrivalled patina, strength, and durability in a short time.

Be mindful that this is a journey every bit as unique as the cow’s life whose skin the leather came from. The first marks are the most distressing but Gilboy’s Leather Conditioner Balsam will deepen the markings creating a patina unique to you, the owner.

Full grain leather bears the scars of the animal. By caring for your Tanner Bates Vegetable Tanned Leather product, you will be continuing the journey of that animal’s skin – unique to the animal and as the patina builds unique to you as the journey continues…

A Dive into the History of the Nato Watch Strap

A watch strap is more than just a functional tool to keep a timepiece attached to your wrist. It can make a significant fashion statement, and in some cases, it carries a rich history. One such watch strap in our range at Tanner Bates is the Nato watch strap, which has evolved from its military origins to become a must-have accessory for watch enthusiasts worldwide.

In this article, we delve into the fascinating history of the Nato watch strap, its transformation over the years, and its enduring appeal.

The Genesis of the Nato Watch Strap

Contrary to what its name might suggest, the Nato strap has no origins within the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). It was born out of a need for a robust, functional watch strap capable of withstanding the rigours of military use.

The Birth of the Nato Strap

The Nato watch strap was born in 1973, originally conceived by the British Ministry of Defence (MOD) to provide a highly resistant watch strap for the British Army. The aim was to create a watch strap that could withstand any situation, free from the problems encountered with the straps of the time. Leather straps were susceptible to humidity in tropical climates, steel watch bands risked reflecting light during military missions, and rubber straps lacked reliability.

The Stringent Requirements

The design of the original Nato strap adhered to very strict requirements aimed at functionality and durability:

· The strap was made from grey woven nylon, 1.2mm thick (colour "Admiralty Grey")

· It was constructed from a single nylon ribbon

· The buckle was one-piece, without lug and irremovable

· The buckle and loops were heat-welded in position

· The strap's end and holes were heat-sealed

· The strap had a width of 20mm, matching the lug width of military watches of the time

· The strap boasted a length of 280mm, facilitating its use on thick diving suits of the Royal Navy

These stringent requirements resulted in the creation of a strap that was practical, durable and fail-safe.

Why 'NATO'?

The name 'Nato strap' owes its origins to an administrative detail. The strap was assigned a NATO Stocking Number (NSN), used for inventory and requisition purposes within the military. It is also referred to as a 'G10 strap', a name derived from the requisition form (G10) that British army personnel had to complete to obtain one.

The Military Usage

Nato straps were extensively used by military personnel, known for their reliability and ability to weather harsh conditions. They were particularly popular among soldiers serving in regions with harsh climates, such as England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland.

The Civilian Life: The Nato Strap Makes Its Debut

Over time, the Nato strap transitioned from its military roots to the mainstream world of watches. Today, it is a popular choice for watch enthusiasts, not just for its functionality and durability but also for its aesthetic appeal.

The Arrival of Colours and Stripes

While the original Nato strap was only available in 'Admiralty Grey', the strap's evolution saw the introduction of colours and stripes. This transformation was more civilian than military, as British regiments never used these colourful straps for service. They were, however, available in some military dispensaries.

The Influence of James Bond

The Nato strap's popularity got a significant boost when it was featured in the 1964 James Bond movie, 'Goldfinger'. The strap worn by Sean Connery, who played James Bond, was a navy-blue one with red and green stripes. This appearance earned the Nato strap another nickname - the "Bond NATO".

The Modern-Day Nato Strap

Today, the Nato strap is a popular choice for its fashion appeal and durability. Available in an array of colours, patterns, and designs, the Nato strap can transform the look of any watch.

The Nato strap has indeed come a long way from its military origins. It has evolved into a versatile accessory that adds a touch of style to any watch while keeping the timepiece securely attached to your wrist. Whether you're a watch enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship and a hint of history, adding a Nato strap to your collection might just be the perfect choice.

The NATO Leather Watch Strap

Here at Tanner Bates we have created our own version of the classic Nato Watch strap with choices of 6 different leathers that are 1.5mm thick. Entirely hand-crafted in our Devon workshop by our artisan craftspeople. Our full-grain vegetable-tanned watch straps are built to last.

The Tanner Bates Nato Leather Watch Strap

The Nato watch strap's journey from a functional military tool to a stylish accessory underscores the timeless appeal of quality and craftsmanship. Its evolution reflects the changing tastes and preferences of consumers, while its enduring popularity is a testament to its quality, versatility, and style. Whether paired with a high-end luxury watch or a casual timepiece, the Tanner Bates Nato Leather Watch strap adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, making it a worthy addition to any watch collection.

The Nato watch strap's history is as fascinating as it is diverse. From its military origins to its widespread adoption by watch enthusiasts, it has remained a timeless accessory that combines functionality, style, and history. Its evolution and enduring appeal are a testament to the strap's quality and versatility. Whether you're a watch aficionado or just starting your collection, the Nato watch strap is a must-have accessory that adds a unique touch of style to any timepiece.