You can combine the "slim tuck" and "underside tuck" methods on a standard nato to seat the buckle under your wrist for a cleaner, more comfortable fit.
This is what I do with my Orient Small Seconds (RA-AP0005B10B). It's great for a "dressy" watch! I burned off 5 cm of the NATO, so it fits even better.
Last summer I was inner tubing with friends when my NATO strap saved my watch. We were travelling at high speeds, and doing our best to flip the other inner tube next to us (some of my other friends). I had grabbed the side so that my partner could climb on our neighbors inner tube to try and yank them off, and to try and prevent us from doing this, they started kicking at my arm to get me to let go. One of the blows landed right on my wrist, knocking against my Seiko PADI. When the smoke had cleared, my watch was hanging by only one spring bar, the other having ripped out from the impact. Now, if I had been wearing my watch on a bracelet or two piece strap, my PADI would be at the bottom of a lake. You never know when the unexpected might happen, so it counts to have security. Great video as always TGV, keep it up, see you at 200k subs!
Nothing tougher,more rugged,more reliable and more able to handle the rigours of the field than NATO's, it's not even a debateable topic,they are,for me, the ULTIMATE watch strap.
I have been a fan of your channel for many years. I must have seen all your uploads. But this upload somehow escaped me! This is the first time I am learning how to wear Nato/Zulus differently! I am now wearing my beautiful Oris artix, with the underside option! Kudos to you!
Cool! TGV, Thanks again for a very informative video! I got back into watches after finding your channel, and I'm glad I did. It kind of reminds me of a toy windup airplane we used to play with as a kid, we used to say "wind it up and let it go"! Now it applies to watches! Thanks again, Steve M.
Enlightening video, TGV. It took me long enough to figure out how to use a NATO in the first instance. So, it's fantastic that you did a video on the other ways to use both NATO and Zulu. It has been much appreciated.
@TGV First off, I must say, excellent channel, it is actually the ONLY channel I am or have ever been subscribed to. My wife wasn’t too happy to hear I’m not subscribed to hers.... Anyways, I had an addition to this that MAY have already been added in comments but I simply didn’t have the time to read through every comment (yet). I wanted to touch on the “5-ring nato” which kind of changes the game altogether in wearing because you put it through both loops at the end of the under strap, then double back through the bottom loop which actually cinches the tension on the spring bars. This is functional for diving as well as daily wear because if the strap gets caught on something, the additional force is distributed to the strap and NOT to the spring bars, the tension on the spring bars always will remain constant. Just my two cents, and actually it made me really appreciate the 5 ring after realizing what it was utilized for.
Thank you!!!! Never really got how to wear these and before this didn’t find very good instructions anywhere. You covered everything!! Now I get it - put an Alphashark back on my diver and voila! Thanks to your video no longer have the ghastly folded lump on one side! I’ve also noticed that while you are correct that the NATO in standard position doesn’t allow the watch to be repositioned, if you invert so the hardware is inside, then you can in fact reposition quite easily.. which is how I ended up in the end. Plus this way you lose the fold over near the one end of the watch and makes a very clean appearance
Old video but for a Nato I like to cut it sometimes. When cutting the extra loop I often get close to the edge, then burn the hell out of it creating a nice charred surface, then finely sand it down for a flush, comfortable fit. I also burn any loose threads, but the biggest thing I do is put a very small ring around my most used setting, usually 4 or 5 holes up. This helps keep it secure and strong. I also like avoiding cutting by doing the slim tuck and putting the excess strap toward the bottom of the wrist. Same as the way the zulu was folded on the bottom, but the extra loop is under there as well. Great video, thanks TGV.
This video came just in time as I have just purchased my first automatic watch. I've taken many of UGWC suggestions and grabbed a 007. Love Love. Thanks for being a wonderful steward to horology, Cheers!
I never thought about these style straps paired with these type of watches till I saw a few of your videos. I like the look it gives the watches and adds versatility in terms of style. Thank you for the advise on how to wear these. Cheers, RLH IV
And all this time, I thought there was only one way to Nato. I'm definitely going to try some of these out. I especially like your Zulu "Underside Tuck"! I might actually end up with my first Zulu. Bravo, TGV!
Definitely good for a thumbs up and a save. Very informative and shows a lot more versatility to both straps that I probably wouldn't have otherwise even looked into.
9:04 there I go what exactly? You didn’t show me what exactly you did. I have a zulu strap. Was I meant to watch the nato strap video for an explanation that carries over?
Hi. I tried the method where you "bypass" the third ring and associated nylon. It worked well the only problem was that the third ring ended up directly under the buckle. This was a HadleyRoma strap. I'm happy to say that this inspired me to come up with another method. I threaded the third ring before I attached the watch and doubled up the nylon. An added bonus was that the end of the strap was fitting perfectly under the third ring, now next to one of the lugs. This of course depends on wrist and strap size. Thank you very much for all the great information and inspiration throughout (almost:-?) all of your videos. All the best. Eirik from Norway Post scripture: looking forward to a lot of videos from you Switzerland tour
Great tips and NATO attachment/fit methods. I don't have many Zulus, I think I only have 1 Zulu, so the NATO methods would be what I'd use more. The "standard" or "normal" methods are generally fine and I got used to, but glad to learn of various ways to possibly get a better fit and/or look. It is sort of amazing how just 1 layer of strap material can make a difference in how the watch looks and lifts off the wrist. The only method I foresee using is a combination of your "Slim Tuck" for NATO and "Underside Tuck" for Zulu.. Call it the "Slim Underside Tuck"? What this does is you can get the slimmer profile with the "Slim Tuck", but that leaves some asymmetry if you try and secure it similar to how you would for "standard" or "normal". The outer will have more bulk because of strap material and keeper hardware and the inner side will be slim and low profile. So, just move the watch head down towards the holes or closer to center of strap like you did for your "Underside Tuck" on the Zulu, then run the strap through like the "Slim Tuck". That way, all the bulk will be on the underside and the outer and inner sides of the strap, when viewed from the watch front, will appear the same. Thanks again!
You were the one that got me interested in nato straps TGV and now I love them. So comfortable and they do liven up your wrist and increase the fun factor, which it’s all about isn’t it 😁. I’m going to try the variations you’ve demonstrated. More watch band fun👍🏻. All the best mate.
My first watch (timex weekender) came with a leather nato, and to the day I find it way more comfortable than the steel bracelets because of my small wrist.
Great video. I replaced, two of my old large Invicta watches that were hiding in the back of the drawer with Zulu Straps. Wow! What a difference. No more bulky Invicta bracelet. The monster got tamed a few notches.
Hi TGV Ohh, thank you so much. Never knew that! I'm now wearing my Seamaster slim tuck, inverted positioned. It makes it sit much more tight on the wrist, more aesthetically pleasing... As always with good ideas there's a downside to it, though. Certain things has come into the daylight - my nato obviously need a good wash. I've better get going, then 😆 Keep up the good work👍
Haha, FANTASTIC!!!! If I can get just a few people to enjoy their watches more, my job is done. As for a mucky strap, between you and me, I kinda like them like that ;-) Terrible, I know, thank you Kjeld, Best regards, TGV
Just what ive been looking for for my mudmaster 2000. The under slung method really makes an already large watch sit really comfortably on my wrist.. Cheers 😉
Great video TGV. I have one question. You said you wore your Lion-Shark in the Jacuzzi. I thought you weren't supposed to do that?? The heat from the hot water thins the lubricants on the watch parts and it can run off, thereby decreasing the lubrication on important places on the watch. Same goes for hot showers.
Hello TVG, I have a Rotary Vintage Dive Automatic, which I bought a NATO Strap for because I see you love them. I’ve been able to purchase one to match the colour of my watch face I’d love to show you if you’re interested in seeing? Also I love the Timex Marlin. I’ve added a few reminders on some auction sites so I get notified when new ones are put up, but they’re getting expensive now. Anyway back to the straps and the positions. I really like the Underside position of the Zulu strap. I thought it’s a bit of a shame you can’t do that with the Nato strap, but you can! If you use the Folded back tuck on the Nato strap it enables you to move the watch closer towards the strap holes enabling you to have the Underside position of the Zulu strap with a Nato strap. Keep up the good work! Love the videos just wish I had the funds to build a collection! JT
I just bought a Sarb017, and now I'm looking for my first nato or zulu, and i think I'm going for the Zulu with underside tuck, looks like it'll be something i'd appreciate more than the other ways :P Thanks!
Tristano a really useful cheerful informative video! I am new to the Straps and the extra length bugs me. I just take the length under the watch again. It does not show looks really neat. It works with adopters, not sure if it would without. Cheers
You can slide the watch head further down on a nato and get the same effect you got with the extra material on the bottom as you did with the Zulu. Thanks for posting. Keep at it!
Right on time is your video as 6 straps are on their way for my GMT. I tried one Nato already and I just can’t take it off. What a beautiful and simple invention this type of straps really is. Thanks for posting. PS: I remember a video where the bloggers showed the same way of wearing the nato as you did with the zulu in the last example.
Awesome. TGV, honestly I had trouble wearing my skx007. The standard jubilee didn't last a decade and fell apart. So I got a two piece, mil-green zulu for it. The skx can be a bit thick, only compounded with the thick zulu. I stopped wearing my skx007 because I wasn't happy with it. Then I seen this video. Long story, short... I can now wear my skx. No longer the regular position! Slim tuck mixed with underside tuck. It's great. Thanks.
Thank you for the ideas. I will try the slim tuck when I get home from work later today. I also dislike how high a nato makes the watch sit and I have a few nato which are the same material as your zulu.
Many thanks for this. Just bought a CWC G10 field watch on a nato strap. Love the watch but it's rather uncomfortable. Having watched this and changed the strap fitting to "slim tuck" it's much better plus I punched in extra hole between standard spacings which also helped. Love the channel . Nice one chap!
Fantastic, I'm sure the gentry will love that. You are the reason many of us now own (or are vigorously hunting after) one of these fantastic pieces ;)
Nice! Majority of the time my watches are on NATO straps, especially my divers. Been contemplating adding some Zulu straps specifically for the option of under-tucking; Crown & Buckle has some leather versions I've considered along with the OG, burgundy/olive green Bond strap. Still, I also kind of like having the NATO strap hold the watch even off my wrist as I recently realized after having my GMT slide off my new perlon strap due to force of habit of holding just the top of the strap, lol
BTW... That Seiko at 0:30 is sweet. What model is it? I really dig clean dials like that. No numerals, just indices, nice batons. It does two things... Tells you the current time and date. Uncluttered and very tastefully done.
I run mine back thru the buckle and buckle pin. Use the first keeper, fold the excess back toward the buckle. Lift the pin and use the first hole of the strap and run in in the opposite way
Hello at the end you mentioned you can’t to the underside tuck on a nato, well you can if you position the case like you did on the underside tuck then thread the strap like the slim tuck. That’s how I use mine, all the bulk is on the bottom.
Thought slim tuck is a weird way to wear a nato.... just tried it on my sinn u1 and it just became amazingly more comfortable. Great instructional video
Hi TGV, you just said that you wore your watch in the jacuzzi. I've always wondered if it's okay to wear a watch or a G shock/digital, in the heat of a jacuzzi or a steam room? Any problems with that?
Nice Video TGV! Some cool new ways to wear Natos. Especially for my girlfriend, when she decides to catch one of my pieces, she always complains about the lenght of my straps. Thank You!
Looks so much more comfortable and expressive than a bracelet, let alone personal styling. You seem to have such skills in finding the unique watches TGV. I've been attempting to locate a piece that stands alone, something that has a safety green dial with phospherpus orange hands in a diver or chronograph. Eye catching colors. Either vintage or current, something very unique. Suggestions Sir? Best regards.
A complete WOW! and Thanks! So my daily watch of choice is a Pulsar G10 field watch. Ridiculously legible, no faff, lovely font, not big or fat, GREAT lume, showerproof and very thin and lightweight.... love it... but it has fixed pins and so I HAVE to use a nato strap. I have tried a gazillion different ones and was never satisfied with various types of leather and material until I tried a Page & Cooper rubber one. I like it because ... a. It's a lovely VERY dark grey/black, matching the dial b. It doesn't hold onto water after the shower, like nylon does. c. It seems to "flow" and grip your wrist somehow. When you lift the spare end, it sort of snaps back... d. It is grooved (for pleasure) ...no.. but it makes the hardware sort of grip on, making it feel more secure e. The hardware is brushed, matching my watch f. It's cheap (enough) g. The hardware loops don't have spare space to get your arm snagged on things. But, as you say, the extra bit of the strap on the NATO does make it sit higher... and on a thinner wrist, slightly ungainly and uncomfortable. YOUR SLIM TUCK TIP at 6:04 is flippin' genius. Why didn't I think of this? It has made a great strap and watch combo 100% better.
I really enjoy TGV's videos. Very positive even when pointing out drawbacks to watches, companies, straps, etc. I recently bought one of the recommendations - the Casio Duro entry level diver - and am very happy with it. I also had never worn a NATO or Zulu strap, despite being military for 21 years, so I bought some to go with the watch. I appreciated this video with options on how to wear them, and with this watch and strap, I am using the inverted method so that the "cleaner" side of the strap is more on display instead of the folded strap end. The strap I bought is black with a thin red line down the middle, which I think complements the red second hand on the watch. Thanks, and keep up the great videos.
I wear a nato with the slim tuck but done with the exra underneath like you did with the zulu last one .a bit of a mix i find it more secured and comfortable that way i dont like tje extra to be showing on the left or right of the wrist as there normally worn hopefully someone might find this useful if they are finding natos not to there likeing as i did and iv found this way its growing on me iv not worn one for a while as i gave my dad the only nato i had so iv ordered more to try them again and ill see how it goes .grate video tgv as always.
Hello T. You should try a Haveston NATO strap. It takes it to a whole new level since the last keeper slides to hold the tail without any tuck. Also softer than other brands. And great history behind the design colors. And the best for last, they are Brits!
Ciao. I believe there are two types of ZULU straps. The 3 rings whcih is the simple one strap piece (like the olive color you are showing in the video) and the 5 rings which is like the NATO with the under-watch additional strap, making a double strap passing under the watch. Correct me if I am wrong.
Great video explaining the differences between the straps and how to wear them. Thank you. I'm more of a bracelet guy but, will try out some of these techniques!
So glad to hear, amazing watches!!!! As for the strap, did you check out the strap Marathon make themselves, AMAZING stuff. I would start there. Happy hunting, thank you, Best regards, TGV
I was doing the regular position but wasn't quite digging the increased distance off my wrist or too tall. I tried the slim position and I like it lowering the watch but it actually increased the bulk on the folded side so I went back to using the regular technique.
TGV, I'm headed to Liverpool to study for an entire semester. My blood is partially Scouse but this is my first extended stay in England. Born and raised here in the USA. Any brief travel suggestions in the UK? Any specific locations you'd recommend that aren't the common tourist spots? I'll be hoping to travel every weekend if I can afford it. Regards, GTM
Hola, muy buen video . Me encantan tus vídeos. Tengo una pregunta para ti: ¿ Tienes alguna guía o protocolo para vestir de etiqueta con reloj? O ¿Sólo te vistes con el reloj que se te antoja sin utilizar un código de vestimenta? Lo siento por escribirte en español! :(
Extra Bonus Tip: Cut the extra flap off the NATO for a very slim fit! Just cut it very close to the stitching, then burn the frayed end with a lighter to seal the ends of the threads so it doesn't unravel. Very comfortable and thin if done properly.
Doing this also allows you to were the strap in what TGV refers to the "under tuck." It essentially turns the NATO into a thin Zulu, I have done this to several NATOs and it is very comfortable. Works best if your strap is stitched and not the press-glued/"welded" style.
I did find this useful. I just order a NATO strap for a watch that I was going to get rid of. I like the watch but I was just tired of it. Maybe this will spark that love for the watch I originally had. Once again, thanks.
All very interesting. I bought a Seiko Sports 100 in 1971 ( digital). I removed the bracelet and wore it with a Velcro band. I guess you would call that a Zulu. I thought swimming and did a lot of sailing. I wore it constantly. A great watch and band.
Slim tuck all the way! Thanks for this video, your channel is great. You’re a knowledgeable, non-snobbish, gent. And the accent makes even bargain reviews seem refined! Cheers!
There's a version of the slim tuck, that places the double retainer loops at the 6 o/c position, just like the inverted position, but keeps the 'hardware' at the top.
Hi,have you ever experienced any damage on the watch case due to the friction of the nato strap on the metal? I'm asking because I put my 16710 on a grey nato strap since I've seen one of yours video! Thanks for your works,I really enjoy it!
i use the inverted single pass style with my nato strap then i just move the extra below the wrist. very symmetrical from top view and it's really comfortable
You can combine the "slim tuck" and "underside tuck" methods on a standard nato to seat the buckle under your wrist for a cleaner, more comfortable fit.
Just noticed that while trying out the slim tuck. So much better.
went with that option. great!
Yep, cleanest look and no more side lump!
Thanks! Wanted my watch to sit lower since its already quite thick and i disliked the extra bulk at the outer side this made it perfect
This is what I do with my Orient Small Seconds (RA-AP0005B10B). It's great for a "dressy" watch! I burned off 5 cm of the NATO, so it fits even better.
Last summer I was inner tubing with friends when my NATO strap saved my watch. We were travelling at high speeds, and doing our best to flip the other inner tube next to us (some of my other friends). I had grabbed the side so that my partner could climb on our neighbors inner tube to try and yank them off, and to try and prevent us from doing this, they started kicking at my arm to get me to let go. One of the blows landed right on my wrist, knocking against my Seiko PADI. When the smoke had cleared, my watch was hanging by only one spring bar, the other having ripped out from the impact.
Now, if I had been wearing my watch on a bracelet or two piece strap, my PADI would be at the bottom of a lake. You never know when the unexpected might happen, so it counts to have security. Great video as always TGV, keep it up, see you at 200k subs!
Nothing tougher,more rugged,more reliable and more able to handle the rigours of the field than NATO's, it's not even a debateable topic,they are,for me, the ULTIMATE watch strap.
Great point. The Zulu/nato is the best way to go to keep your watch safe when out living life.
The most informative zulu and nato strap difference and ways to wear video I saw in TH-cam so far. Thumbs up well deserved.
Had no idea there was so many ways to wear those straps. Great video once again.
I have been a fan of your channel for many years. I must have seen all your uploads. But this upload somehow escaped me! This is the first time I am learning how to wear Nato/Zulus differently! I am now wearing my beautiful Oris artix, with the underside option! Kudos to you!
Cool! TGV, Thanks again for a very informative video! I got back into watches after finding your channel, and I'm glad I did. It kind of reminds me of a toy windup airplane we used to play with as a kid, we used to say "wind it up and let it go"! Now it applies to watches! Thanks again, Steve M.
Of COURSE, you’d be the vlogger who has the secrets for my first NATO strap. Thanks for the help! Again!
Enlightening video, TGV. It took me long enough to figure out how to use a NATO in the first instance. So, it's fantastic that you did a video on the other ways to use both NATO and Zulu. It has been much appreciated.
Can you do a thorough perlon breakdown please? Brands, weaves, buckles etc
Great idea.
Thank you Hamish,
Best regards,
TGV
Perfect timing! I’ve just got my first NATO strap from Amazon. It’s a black and grey 22mm to try on my Omega planet ocean. 👍
So glad I could help.
A PO on a nato, PURE CLASS! ;-)
Enjoy Gary, thank you,
Best regards,
TGV
Great choice, man. I bet it will look fantastic, and it will make the watch feel super light.
When your back looking for watch videos and you saw the end of the Urban Gentry...legend forever. Thank you.
Excellent vid! Hated how tall Nato's sat on my wrist so you just opened up a whole new world for me! Cheers and keep up the good work!
@TGV First off, I must say, excellent channel, it is actually the ONLY channel I am or have ever been subscribed to. My wife wasn’t too happy to hear I’m not subscribed to hers.... Anyways, I had an addition to this that MAY have already been added in comments but I simply didn’t have the time to read through every comment (yet). I wanted to touch on the “5-ring nato” which kind of changes the game altogether in wearing because you put it through both loops at the end of the under strap, then double back through the bottom loop which actually cinches the tension on the spring bars. This is functional for diving as well as daily wear because if the strap gets caught on something, the additional force is distributed to the strap and NOT to the spring bars, the tension on the spring bars always will remain constant. Just my two cents, and actually it made me really appreciate the 5 ring after realizing what it was utilized for.
You sir are a genius, gentleman, scholar and philosopher warrior. This video was brilliant!
I love your channel. I watch every video you post lol. You are the main reason I have become addicted to watches!
Been wearing natos for years and never thought of the slim tuck... love it. Thank you, sir!
Thank you!!!! Never really got how to wear these and before this didn’t find very good instructions anywhere. You covered everything!! Now I get it - put an Alphashark back on my diver and voila! Thanks to your video no longer have the ghastly folded lump on one side!
I’ve also noticed that while you are correct that the NATO in standard position doesn’t allow the watch to be repositioned, if you invert so the hardware is inside, then you can in fact reposition quite easily.. which is how I ended up in the end. Plus this way you lose the fold over near the one end of the watch and makes a very clean appearance
Old video but for a Nato I like to cut it sometimes. When cutting the extra loop I often get close to the edge, then burn the hell out of it creating a nice charred surface, then finely sand it down for a flush, comfortable fit. I also burn any loose threads, but the biggest thing I do is put a very small ring around my most used setting, usually 4 or 5 holes up. This helps keep it secure and strong. I also like avoiding cutting by doing the slim tuck and putting the excess strap toward the bottom of the wrist. Same as the way the zulu was folded on the bottom, but the extra loop is under there as well. Great video, thanks TGV.
I don’t know how I missed this video from years ago but I’ve found it immensely helpful and informative! Thank you! 🥃
This video came just in time as I have just purchased my first automatic watch. I've taken many of UGWC suggestions and grabbed a 007. Love Love. Thanks for being a wonderful steward to horology, Cheers!
This is becoming one of my absolute favorite youtube channels. Keep on posting such great content.
I never thought about these style straps paired with these type of watches till I saw a few of your videos. I like the look it gives the watches and adds versatility in terms of style. Thank you for the advise on how to wear these.
Cheers,
RLH IV
So glad I could help, I will be doing more of them too.
Thank you RLH!
Best regards,
TGV
Thanks. I just got a Zulu strap today, and you gave me a good wearing solution for it.
I wished I'd seen this when it came out! Another gem from TGV. Very helpful.
Thank you TGV.i was never sure of the right or wrong way to wear these straps but now I can wear it as is most comfortable without fear of criticism.
So glad to hear! Have no fear my friend.
Wear and enjoy!
Thank you Rick,
Best regards,
TGV
And all this time, I thought there was only one way to Nato. I'm definitely going to try some of these out. I especially like your Zulu "Underside Tuck"! I might actually end up with my first Zulu. Bravo, TGV!
I remember when Buffalo Bill did the "folded back tuck" in Silence of the Lambs. Good times I say.
😂
32768 vibrations a second, and he was still an angry man!
Good one. You deserve a nice Chianti.
@@jsmith1649 Don't forget the fava beans.
Strange I don't seem to remember him wearing a watch......
Definitely good for a thumbs up and a save. Very informative and shows a lot more versatility to both straps that I probably wouldn't have otherwise even looked into.
Great video! Interesting to see so many different ways of wearing a NATO strap on a watch! It's just like seeing different ways of knotting a tie!
The slim tuck is brilliant ! Thanks TGV
9:04 there I go what exactly? You didn’t show me what exactly you did. I have a zulu strap. Was I meant to watch the nato strap video for an explanation that carries over?
The slim tuck is fantastic. I never thought of that. I wear my Zulu underside tuck as well. Excellent video as always.
Thank you Steve! :D
Best regards,
TGV
The Urban Gentry love the NATO on your Lion Shark. Mine should be in the end of the week from LIW. Sooooo excited. What an Excellent design.
Hi. I tried the method where you "bypass" the third ring and associated nylon. It worked well the only problem was that the third ring ended up directly under the buckle. This was a HadleyRoma strap. I'm happy to say that this inspired me to come up with another method. I threaded the third ring before I attached the watch and doubled up the nylon. An added bonus was that the end of the strap was fitting perfectly under the third ring, now next to one of the lugs. This of course depends on wrist and strap size.
Thank you very much for all the great information and inspiration throughout (almost:-?) all of your videos.
All the best.
Eirik from Norway
Post scripture: looking forward to a lot of videos from you Switzerland tour
Thank you Erik,
I adore Norway btw, travel there twice, amazing country and culture!
Best regards,
TGV
Hi Tristano. I am watching this tutorial again. I just love it. Thank you again. Greetings, Robert
Hi Robert, always lovely to hear from you.
Thank you my friend.
Best regards,
TGV
The Urban Gentry Thank you for you lovely words, man. Take care. R
Just got a nato for my first G-shock, this video was very helpful thanks!
Great tips and NATO attachment/fit methods. I don't have many Zulus, I think I only have 1 Zulu, so the NATO methods would be what I'd use more.
The "standard" or "normal" methods are generally fine and I got used to, but glad to learn of various ways to possibly get a better fit and/or look.
It is sort of amazing how just 1 layer of strap material can make a difference in how the watch looks and lifts off the wrist.
The only method I foresee using is a combination of your "Slim Tuck" for NATO and "Underside Tuck" for Zulu.. Call it the "Slim Underside Tuck"?
What this does is you can get the slimmer profile with the "Slim Tuck", but that leaves some asymmetry if you try and secure it similar to how you would for "standard" or "normal". The outer will have more bulk because of strap material and keeper hardware and the inner side will be slim and low profile.
So, just move the watch head down towards the holes or closer to center of strap like you did for your "Underside Tuck" on the Zulu, then run the strap through like the "Slim Tuck". That way, all the bulk will be on the underside and the outer and inner sides of the strap, when viewed from the watch front, will appear the same.
Thanks again!
You were the one that got me interested in nato straps TGV and now I love them. So comfortable and they do liven up your wrist and increase the fun factor, which it’s all about isn’t it 😁. I’m going to try the variations you’ve demonstrated. More watch band fun👍🏻. All the best mate.
Good video ! Particularly the last Zulu strap, its simplicity ! 👍🏼
In my book, the last Zulu strap with the 'underside tuck' wins hands down over all the rest. Fine work, TGV.
My first watch (timex weekender) came with a leather nato, and to the day I find it way more comfortable than the steel bracelets because of my small wrist.
Same ! Watching thsi because im planning on gettig some more straps for it.
HENRY MK. II IS BEAUTIFUL!! Perfect with the Jubilee. And thanks for the zulu underside tuck, have to try that soon!
This video was very relaxing and enjoyable. I got my first nato in the mail today
Great video. I replaced, two of my old large Invicta watches that were hiding in the back of the drawer with Zulu Straps. Wow! What a difference. No more bulky Invicta bracelet.
The monster got tamed a few notches.
Great video! I know you have done a video on affordable watches but could you do a video on Bering???? Thank you -Russell
Hi TGV
Ohh, thank you so much. Never knew that! I'm now wearing my Seamaster slim tuck, inverted positioned. It makes it sit much more tight on the wrist, more aesthetically pleasing...
As always with good ideas there's a downside to it, though. Certain things has come into the daylight - my nato obviously need a good wash. I've better get going, then 😆
Keep up the good work👍
Haha, FANTASTIC!!!!
If I can get just a few people to enjoy their watches more, my job is done.
As for a mucky strap, between you and me, I kinda like them like that ;-)
Terrible, I know, thank you Kjeld,
Best regards,
TGV
Just what ive been looking for for my mudmaster 2000. The under slung method really makes an already large watch sit really comfortably on my wrist..
Cheers 😉
Great video TGV. I have one question. You said you wore your Lion-Shark in the Jacuzzi. I thought you weren't supposed to do that?? The heat from the hot water thins the lubricants on the watch parts and it can run off, thereby decreasing the lubrication on important places on the watch. Same goes for hot showers.
Hello TVG,
I have a Rotary Vintage Dive Automatic, which I bought a NATO Strap for because I see you love them. I’ve been able to purchase one to match the colour of my watch face I’d love to show you if you’re interested in seeing?
Also I love the Timex Marlin. I’ve added a few reminders on some auction sites so I get notified when new ones are put up, but they’re getting expensive now.
Anyway back to the straps and the positions. I really like the Underside position of the Zulu strap. I thought it’s a bit of a shame you can’t do that with the Nato strap, but you can! If you use the Folded back tuck on the Nato strap it enables you to move the watch closer towards the strap holes enabling you to have the Underside position of the Zulu strap with a Nato strap.
Keep up the good work! Love the videos just wish I had the funds to build a collection!
JT
With the nylon keeper nato reverse method that puts keeper on the inside, such a unique look!! Great tip, Tks
I just bought a Sarb017, and now I'm looking for my first nato or zulu, and i think I'm going for the Zulu with underside tuck, looks like it'll be something i'd appreciate more than the other ways :P Thanks!
Tristano a really useful cheerful informative video! I am new to the Straps and the extra length bugs me. I just take the length under the watch again. It does not show looks really neat. It works with adopters, not sure if it would without. Cheers
So glad to hear, good point about adapters,
Thank you Panos,
Best regards,
TGV
You can slide the watch head further down on a nato and get the same effect you got with the extra material on the bottom as you did with the Zulu. Thanks for posting. Keep at it!
Right on time is your video as 6 straps are on their way for my GMT. I tried one Nato already and I just can’t take it off. What a beautiful and simple invention this type of straps really is. Thanks for posting.
PS: I remember a video where the bloggers showed the same way of wearing the nato as you did with the zulu in the last example.
Awesome.
TGV, honestly I had trouble wearing my skx007. The standard jubilee didn't last a decade and fell apart. So I got a two piece, mil-green zulu for it. The skx can be a bit thick, only compounded with the thick zulu. I stopped wearing my skx007 because I wasn't happy with it.
Then I seen this video. Long story, short... I can now wear my skx. No longer the regular position! Slim tuck mixed with underside tuck. It's great. Thanks.
Thank you for the ideas. I will try the slim tuck when I get home from work later today. I also dislike how high a nato makes the watch sit and I have a few nato which are the same material as your zulu.
Many thanks for this. Just bought a CWC G10 field watch on a nato strap. Love the watch but it's rather uncomfortable. Having watched this and changed the strap fitting to "slim tuck" it's much better plus I punched in extra hole between standard spacings which also helped. Love the channel . Nice one chap!
Woohoo, a TGV video to watch when I get home. 👍⌚️⏱
Video starts at 4:30
Hey TGV, can you please make that update video about the flighty soon?
Great idea, I will certainly do that,
Thank you Stanley,
Best regards,
TGV
Fantastic, I'm sure the gentry will love that. You are the reason many of us now own (or are vigorously hunting after) one of these fantastic pieces ;)
Nice! Majority of the time my watches are on NATO straps, especially my divers. Been contemplating adding some Zulu straps specifically for the option of under-tucking; Crown & Buckle has some leather versions I've considered along with the OG, burgundy/olive green Bond strap.
Still, I also kind of like having the NATO strap hold the watch even off my wrist as I recently realized after having my GMT slide off my new perlon strap due to force of habit of holding just the top of the strap, lol
BTW... That Seiko at 0:30 is sweet. What model is it? I really dig clean dials like that. No numerals, just indices, nice batons. It does two things... Tells you the current time and date. Uncluttered and very tastefully done.
It’s Seiko SARB033 :) Indeed, it is a great model when you want just a clean subtle look!
I run mine back thru the buckle and buckle pin. Use the first keeper, fold the excess back toward the buckle. Lift the pin and use the first hole of the strap and run in in the opposite way
Hello at the end you mentioned you can’t to the underside tuck on a nato, well you can if you position the case like you did on the underside tuck then thread the strap like the slim tuck. That’s how I use mine, all the bulk is on the bottom.
How interesting, I will have to try it.
Thank you,
Best regards,
TGV
The Urban Gentry my pleasure, I saw it from this video a long time ago, it's only 50 seconds, worth a look.
th-cam.com/video/iGo-Xixr6WU/w-d-xo.html
Thought slim tuck is a weird way to wear a nato....
just tried it on my sinn u1 and it just became amazingly more comfortable.
Great instructional video
Never a fan of NATO,but I've come around.can't wait till I try them on my SARB033. TGV another stellar vid....
Your intros never fail to impress; fantastic!
Great video! Didn’t know of the other ways until now! I’m going to start doing some of these with my pieces. Especially with my SKX.
That intro was... chillingly beautiful.
Hi TGV, you just said that you wore your watch in the jacuzzi. I've always wondered if it's okay to wear a watch or a G shock/digital, in the heat of a jacuzzi or a steam room? Any problems with that?
Nice Video TGV! Some cool new ways to wear Natos. Especially for my girlfriend, when she decides to catch one of my pieces, she always complains about the lenght of my straps. Thank You!
Thank you Sebastian, knowing I can help in any way, even over a simple strap, brings me immense happiness.
Best regards,
TGV
neat tricks... couldn't you use the underside tuck to have the NATO strap hardware underneath your wrist too?
A beautiful Tudor. Looks great on the jubilee bracelet.
Looks so much more comfortable and expressive than a bracelet, let alone personal styling. You seem to have such skills in finding the unique watches TGV. I've been attempting to locate a piece that stands alone, something that has a safety green dial with phospherpus orange hands in a diver or chronograph. Eye catching colors. Either vintage or current, something very unique. Suggestions Sir? Best regards.
9:13 - Can pass the tip of the strap over the first keeper and under the second, cerating a lock.
A complete WOW! and Thanks!
So my daily watch of choice is a Pulsar G10 field watch. Ridiculously legible, no faff, lovely font, not big or fat, GREAT lume, showerproof and very thin and lightweight.... love it... but it has fixed pins and so I HAVE to use a nato strap. I have tried a gazillion different ones and was never satisfied with various types of leather and material until I tried a Page & Cooper rubber one. I like it because ...
a. It's a lovely VERY dark grey/black, matching the dial
b. It doesn't hold onto water after the shower, like nylon does.
c. It seems to "flow" and grip your wrist somehow. When you lift the spare end, it sort of snaps back...
d. It is grooved (for pleasure) ...no.. but it makes the hardware sort of grip on, making it feel more secure
e. The hardware is brushed, matching my watch
f. It's cheap (enough)
g. The hardware loops don't have spare space to get your arm snagged on things.
But, as you say, the extra bit of the strap on the NATO does make it sit higher... and on a thinner wrist, slightly ungainly and uncomfortable.
YOUR SLIM TUCK TIP at 6:04 is flippin' genius. Why didn't I think of this? It has made a great strap and watch combo 100% better.
I have a lot of NATOs so that video is very helpful for me thank you 😊!
I really enjoy TGV's videos. Very positive even when pointing out drawbacks to watches, companies, straps, etc. I recently bought one of the recommendations - the Casio Duro entry level diver - and am very happy with it. I also had never worn a NATO or Zulu strap, despite being military for 21 years, so I bought some to go with the watch. I appreciated this video with options on how to wear them, and with this watch and strap, I am using the inverted method so that the "cleaner" side of the strap is more on display instead of the folded strap end. The strap I bought is black with a thin red line down the middle, which I think complements the red second hand on the watch. Thanks, and keep up the great videos.
I wear a nato with the slim tuck but done with the exra underneath like you did with the zulu last one .a bit of a mix i find it more secured and comfortable that way i dont like tje extra to be showing on the left or right of the wrist as there normally worn hopefully someone might find this useful if they are finding natos not to there likeing as i did and iv found this way its growing on me iv not worn one for a while as i gave my dad the only nato i had so iv ordered more to try them again and ill see how it goes .grate video tgv as always.
Hello T.
You should try a Haveston NATO strap. It takes it to a whole new level since the last keeper slides to hold the tail without any tuck. Also softer than other brands. And great history behind the design colors. And the best for last, they are Brits!
Ciao. I believe there are two types of ZULU straps. The 3 rings whcih is the simple one strap piece (like the olive color you are showing in the video) and the 5 rings which is like the NATO with the under-watch additional strap, making a double strap passing under the watch. Correct me if I am wrong.
Great video explaining the differences between the straps and how to wear them. Thank you. I'm more of a bracelet guy but, will try out some of these techniques!
What a great Video TGV ! I love the fact you put so much thought and organization into this! Bravo Zulo! Ahem,,,
Uhm, sorry for that question, but what are those straps called again at 4:54? I mean, what brand? Can't understand it. Sorry & thanks for that video.
Great video! I purchased the marathon 36mm diver auto because of you! Love it!! Question which strap do you go to for your marathon!?
So glad to hear, amazing watches!!!! As for the strap, did you check out the strap Marathon make themselves, AMAZING stuff.
I would start there. Happy hunting, thank you,
Best regards,
TGV
I own 2 Nato straps and I love them. My favorite one is the all black nylon with black pvd hardware
I was doing the regular position but wasn't quite digging the increased distance off my wrist or too tall. I tried the slim position and I like it lowering the watch but it actually increased the bulk on the folded side so I went back to using the regular technique.
TGV,
I'm headed to Liverpool to study for an entire semester. My blood is partially Scouse but this is my first extended stay in England. Born and raised here in the USA.
Any brief travel suggestions in the UK? Any specific locations you'd recommend that aren't the common tourist spots? I'll be hoping to travel every weekend if I can afford it.
Regards,
GTM
Hola, muy buen video . Me encantan tus vídeos. Tengo una pregunta para ti: ¿ Tienes alguna guía o protocolo para vestir de etiqueta con reloj? O ¿Sólo te vistes con el reloj que se te antoja sin utilizar un código de vestimenta? Lo siento por escribirte en español! :(
Excellent video as always TGV!
Was about to go to bed. I guess sleep can wait 10 more minutes.
Thank you and good night! :D
Best regards,
TGV
Interesting video. I've never thought of the "slim tuck" - I'll have to give that one a try. Ciao, John
Extra Bonus Tip: Cut the extra flap off the NATO for a very slim fit! Just cut it very close to the stitching, then burn the frayed end with a lighter to seal the ends of the threads so it doesn't unravel. Very comfortable and thin if done properly.
Excellent tip triple zero!
Thank you sir.
Best regards,
TGV
TheStig ZeroZeroZero uuugh...
You alright, there?
I've done this for all my Nato's ,they look much better with perfect & nothing extra.
Doing this also allows you to were the strap in what TGV refers to the "under tuck." It essentially turns the NATO into a thin Zulu, I have done this to several NATOs and it is very comfortable. Works best if your strap is stitched and not the press-glued/"welded" style.
Really like the inverted straps and deployant clasps on some of the IWC watches also!
I did find this useful. I just order a NATO strap for a watch that I was going to get rid of. I like the watch but I was just tired of it. Maybe this will spark that love for the watch I originally had.
Once again, thanks.
All very interesting. I bought a Seiko Sports 100 in 1971 ( digital). I removed the bracelet and wore it with a Velcro band. I guess you would call that a Zulu. I thought swimming and did a lot of sailing. I wore it constantly. A great watch and band.
Slim tuck all the way! Thanks for this video, your channel is great. You’re a knowledgeable, non-snobbish, gent. And the accent makes even bargain reviews seem refined! Cheers!
That Squale strap is so fine! Just the color I was looking for.
There's a version of the slim tuck, that places the double retainer loops at the 6 o/c position, just like the inverted position, but keeps the 'hardware' at the top.
Hi,have you ever experienced any damage on the watch case due to the friction of the nato strap on the metal? I'm asking because I put my 16710 on a grey nato strap since I've seen one of yours video! Thanks for your works,I really enjoy it!
i use the inverted single pass style with my nato strap then i just move the extra below the wrist. very symmetrical from top view and it's really comfortable