Conversion by the Lake: A NATO Story
I used to think I had it all figured out. I used to think I knew what I liked. I used to think that leather or steel were the only options I need when considering a watch band. All other options simply didn’t merit my time. Then along came this one NATO…
I couldn’t really get behind NATOs. I liked their concept and history, but that tucked strap always seemed too bulky, too asymmetrical. They’re never as supple as leather or crisp as a bracelet, so why bother? Well, I ordered a Wrist Hardware watch a while back that came with a couple seatbelt nylon NATOs. The army green strap with a black line caught my eye. I tried it a few times, but couldn’t connect, so back in the drawer it went.
A couple weeks ago I spent a weekend at the lake. I only needed one watch , and figured it should be my Vaer C3. I had initially thought I’d throw it on a bracelet and call it good. But then I decided to do something different and step outside my established comfort zone. I loved the look of this particular NATO, so I figured I’d force myself to spend time with it while at the lake. Long story short: I haven’t worn a different watch since.
I fell in love with how comfortable this combo is on the wrist after having it in the water for a day and truly breaking it in. Even when it starts to feel tight from swelling, it never reaches a level of discomfort to where I would have to take it off or loosen it like I do bracelets and leather. And the color combo, boy is that ever a winner. I know some people aren’t onboard with fauxtina, but I love the color of my C3. Combine that with the OD green and black NATO, it becomes the holy trinity of military colors: green, black and tan/Coyote. It looks incredible by itself, but it is also a perfect combo when in uniform.
Suddenly I feel my watch world has opened to a whole new level. There is so much fun to be had with all the NATO options out there. That said, I plan to exercise a little disciple and hold off for a while. I’m still just enjoying this combo as a perfect reminder that, no matter how much we think we need “just one more,” sometimes one right combo is all you need.
I’m a simple man. I like bourbon, 3-6-9 dials, and pretty, dark-haired women.
A nice love story. I wish you two eternal happiness.
I get why people don’t love NATO straps, but man I think they’re great. As you say, there are so many options, and changing straps is a great way to make a watch feel new without spending a lot.
My Vaer has been on a ratty camo NATO for at least a year, and I really like it. It’s simple, no nonsense, and doesn’t need any special care. I don’t mind if it gets paint on it, gets sweaty or whatever. I prefer metal or rubber for swimming, but it works for that too.
I'm with you with NATO's! Summer humid hot days especially are the best times for them! They are affordable and accessible and can change a look of a watch in no time! That strap and Vaer combo is very cool!
Love to pair this one with greenish ones
Looks very good with smaller Divers also
I'm not a NATO fan.... But you may have changed my mind!
Love a NATO, pretty much 75% of the time for over 20 years - I'm picky tho, & they must be mil-spec (sewn in buckle, pointless otherwise)- most comfortable I've found are CWC mil-spec elastic NATO's 👍🏻👍🏻
I get why people don’t love NATO straps, but man I think they’re great. As you say, there are so many options, and changing straps is a great way to make a watch feel new without spending a lot.
My Vaer has been on a ratty camo NATO for at least a year, and I really like it. It’s simple, no nonsense, and doesn’t need any special care. I don’t mind if it gets paint on it, gets sweaty or whatever. I prefer metal or rubber for swimming, but it works for that too.
I need to find a good rubber strap next. I have one FKM strap, and I love the feel of it, but only works with one of my watches. I need to pick up a couple more.
Love a NATO, pretty much 75% of the time for over 20 years - I'm picky tho, & they must be mil-spec (sewn in buckle, pointless otherwise)- most comfortable I've found are CWC mil-spec elastic NATO's 👍🏻👍🏻
I’ll have to check them out, I’ve been eyeing some elastic NATOs on Amazon, and that will probably be my next purchase.
I'm not a NATO fan.... But you may have changed my mind!
Well I’ve definitely enjoyed this experiment. You just have to find a way to instill a little Stockholm Syndrome, and you’ll be on your way!
I'm with you with NATO's! Summer humid hot days especially are the best times for them! They are affordable and accessible and can change a look of a watch in no time! That strap and Vaer combo is very cool!
Love to pair this one with greenish ones
Looks very good with smaller Divers also
Man that Baby Alpinist looks sharp! Yeah I definitely need to get a few more added to the collection. I actually don’t own a diver yet (sacrilege, I know), but if I ever make a decision on one, you can bet it I’ll include a NATO or two to see what kind of character it draws out.
Still don’t have a nato!
The added height and complexity of the band has always put a a little off
next time I order a new strap I’ll add a cheap nato and finally find out 👍
Still don’t have a nato!
The added height and complexity of the band has always put a a little off
next time I order a new strap I’ll add a cheap nato and finally find out 👍
Do it! And force yourself to wear it for a day or two. I fooled around with adjusting the watch along the strap between the two keepers. Between that and getting it wet while swimming, I was really able to dial it in. But it wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t left all other options at home!