NATO straps: Worth the premium or law of diminishing returns?
Evening crunchers, I hope you are all well!
I’m hoping some of you NATO connoisseurs would be able comment on the difference between budget straps vs premium straps?
I’ve been looking at getting a few straps for an upcoming trip and I’m getting a bit lost in the weeds. I want to buy quality but considering they are simply nylon straps, is the difference for say an Artem strap worth the premium over a £10 strap from Amazon?
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Jack
Living my life to the fullest and enjoying my timepieces! 😎
United Kingdom
Member since
Last active: 11 hrs ago
15.24 cm
From my experience, ribbed nylon straps are basically all the same. Stiff, scratchy, whether you buy a $5 one on AliExpress or a $40 Bark and Jack, they are identical so definitely don't pay the premium unless the hardware is vastly different.
I’ve bought a few cheap ones on Amazon and they are horrible. They fray easily, are never long enough and generally just suck. I also some OEM Seiko ones and they seem to hold up much better and are more comfortable. Finally I have an Omega OEM one that is so comfortable that I look for reasons to wear it. So, I think there is a difference in quality and is probably worth it to invest in a good one.
I’m happy with crown and buckle at $30. CNS are dirt cheap for a reason lol
Like with most things, you get what you pay for. A premium price should get you better hardware, materials, stitching, sealed holes, etc. I personally don’t care for nato straps but I do love the Crown & Buckle Chevron straps as well as good MN style parachute straps.
I second the Crown and Buckle recommendation . Especially the single pass. The ends are stitched nicely so no fraying.
I like the cheapish one from NATO international on eBay. They are 12 inches long. They work the best for me.