My impressions of the new "Original straps" by CNS Watch Bands
These are very nice not only in construction but also in the overall comfort.
The main calling card of this strap is a single-piece buckle. It doesn't use a spring bar but a welded bar. Theoretically, there is not a point of failure.
My points of reference are usually the OG Phoenix straps or UTE/TGN, so here are my impressions with the Original straps:
Nice nylon blend, sturdy, "canvasy," and less "plasticy" than usual with the CNS.
Good length. I can easily tuck-in the excess part.
"Phoenix-like" ultrasonically cut end tip (less than a half radius)
Solid hardware.
Hardware is less angular compared to UTE/TGN.
The distance between the holes is shorter compared to the UTE or Phoenix, which is a plus.
The under-keeper piece is not as short as on the Phoenix (a slight downside)
They wear better than some other CNS products. The CNS crew hit a sweet spot with this one 🙌
Passionate about watch straps, travel, and EDC. Exploring the world one adventure at a time!
Ooo "proper" NATO 👏🏻👏🏻
I'm very finicky about the sewn in buckle, thank you for posting,I'll check these out. Thank you 👍🏻👍🏻😊
Great write up.
I have about a dozen or so straps from CNS & I concur.
Always comfy & you're right about the tighter spacing. I can always get a great fit.
My 1st order took a month, but I had opted for the free shipping because I'm a cheap bastard.
Lesson learned. Pay a little extra.😆
I was lucky enough to have tried CNS early in my search for straps.
I struggle with "standard" lengths being too short. Not by much, but by enough to ruin them for me. As the sizes for this "standard", if mentioned at all, tend to say up to 8 inches wrist diameter. As an 8.25", I'm just past that. And it matters. A LOT! For me, these NATO style (they just recently renamed them due to some company getting all litigious over the NATO "name") are long enough without issue. Not long enough, mind you, that I have any extra to loop and tuck as one sees is the usual with NATOs.. but enough that the end reaches and fits under the second keeper. A win, for me.
I have tried and like the nylon, cotton, and Premium straps. While I love them all, I definitely concur with the review on the Premium!
I have a bunch of CNS bands and I love them all! Highly recommended!
I just this morning posted my Hamilton Titanium on a Premium CNS in WRUW and noted how the brushed hardware perfectly matches the titanium on my new Hamilton's case. As someone who struggles to even get a proper fit, for these to check not only the fit box but to actually look like a perfect match to my case?!.. Sweet! Love it!
What's up with their prices? I used to order from CNS frequently and just checked back and some of their stuff had skyrocketed. $30 for a rubber strap that used to be $9. New ownership?
Does it feel as soft as the UTE ones?
Does it feel as soft as the UTE ones?
@MagikBrew Close, but not as soft. They have a similar bend radius (bend-ability), but the material itself is softer with UTE.
@MagikBrew Close, but not as soft. They have a similar bend radius (bend-ability), but the material itself is softer with UTE.
Good to know, I’ll order one. Thanks.