I've really started to appreciate Nato straps. The are so comfortable and strap changes take about 10 seconds. Just picked up a new Nato strap to compliment my Seamaster Poppy
Um, no you don't. NATO straps are kryptonite to case back medallions. But if you like'm you can have my lifetime allotment. I can change a regular strap in less than a minute including the buckle. I don't even need a springbar tool to put one on anymore.
I should add that that particular watch, like most dive watches, looks pretty good on a NATO when the colors match well.
Assuming there is no medallion on the case back. Are nylon Nato straps really that bad for case backs and the engraving on case backs? We are talking about nylon wearing down stainless steel (in most cases). I ask because I want to make sure to protect my watches if this is in fact a legitimate issue.
Feeling like I should have known this by now... Fortunately the only watch on NATO in my current rotation is a Speedy with an aftermarket exposition case back. I've been rotating that one on a variety of NATO straps. I am finding, however, that a dark brown alligator strap is the look I prefer for that model. Too bad the dial is not chocolate to match!
This was discussed in another post and I think it was Archer that made the point that it was more the accumulated dirt and other grime that does the damage if the strap is not cleaned regularly. But I am not a fan anyway. Cheers
Barking mad is correct - it's the dirt that can become abrasive. However, enamel can surely be worn off with nylon. Gold can be worn off high points too.
And then there are those big clunky metal keeper loops that make it look like you put your strap together in a hardware store. Nasty things, NATOs.
You should have put "Speedmaster" in the title, or "dive watch" maybe. Then us fussbudget alligator strap junkies wouldn't team up on you.
Don't get me wrong, I love crocs, leather, and other exotic straps too. But I find Nato's are great when you want to add a little colour.
LOL - I'm going to have to create another account on this forum just so my post can have one other member who has a positive outlook on Nato's
I admit to wearing every watch on Natos in the last two years ;-) Let's share the lifetime allotment!