The NATO-Style watch is probably one of the hottest trends this year, one trend I’ve been obsessing about for quite some time as well. I truly believe every gentleman should have at least one timepiece that has the option to be infinitely customized with a good old fashion NATO strap.  Put shortly, NATO straps are based upon the standard watch strap issued by the British Ministry of Defense. The name NATO derives from the strap NSN or NATO stock number that identifies this type of strap. Military background aside, NATO straps are also known as Bond straps ever since a fine looking Sean Connery playing James Bond in Goldfinger was seen wearing his Rolex Submariner 6538 with complimenting nylon strap, about fifty years ago.

Simple as they look, these straps will sure make a solid style statement. They have made a successful comeback and have actually become all the rage now. The reason is quite clear: the bright and bold mix of colors make them suitable for work and play. Besides that, NATO straps are light, have a perfect fit, and are breathable and forever tough. NATO straps are a cheap way to give a new life to an old watch or at least emulate James Bond timeless and elegant look. Either way, a win-win situation.

Choosing a good NATO-style watch was a though choice, since every fashion watch company has follow the trend, so there is plenty of models to choose from.  I ended up with three watches: for the ladies, the gorgeous Gucci U-play watch. This beauty comes with an interchangeable Green Red Green Nylon strap and offers a lot of versatility and functionality since allows you to switch the bezel and watch strap to suit your mood.

Gucci U-play Watch

For the gents out there, I picked two options. Since I couldn’t decide which one I love more. The first one is the Glycine Combat Stealth Sub, which has a decidedly military look that is fitting to the name “Stealth”. Very masculine and strong but equally sophisticated. My second pick is the  CITIZEN Sport Aviator Eco Drive. Down to earth, reliable and simply adorable. It is the kind of watch I would totally borrow from my husband when I’m feeling like doing the whole boyfriend look.

Glycine Combat Stealth Sub Watch

CITIZEN Sport Aviator Eco Drive

So there you have it. My pick although narrow, should definitely give a head start on your search for this must have fashion accessory. Just remember that variety is key here and that’s the beauty of it. With so many strap options available to customize your watch, I sincerely encourage you to mix it up and find YOUR style, and, off course have fun while you’re at it!

Glycine is a Swiss watchbrand that was founded by Eugène Meylan in 1914. In the early 1950’s Glycine introduced their Airman model, a 24 hour watch favored by both military and commercial pilots. The Airman was worn by many U.S. Air Force pilots during the Vietnam war. Glycine still makes several variants of the Airman. Besides the Airman Glycine has other models like the Incursore, Combat and Lagunare.

We are proud to announce that we are official dealer of Glycine watches, here you can see a small selection:

Take a look at the complete Glycine Collection.