As of 2023, nylon military style straps have been with us officially for 50 years and like many items born from the rigours of combat they are well tested and proven to be highly effective. As trends change we come to see them not as tools but real accessories to give a more rugged look to a watch head – indeed there is a valid argument that they are super stylish; hence brands like Tudor making watches like the Pelagos FXD which is only available on a military strap.
Tudor Pelagos FXD - Credit WatchGecko
A quality military nylon is a great thing and a cheap one is an awful thing which will let you down very quickly. Many such straps are available online and it astonishes us when we see them on expensive watches as there is no reason to buy cheap when true milspec straps are available for around £20. Equally you can be caught out by overpriced OEM straps. No names being mentioned but if you want to buy an OEM strap for your “Moonwatch” you can pay an eyewatering £330 (US$426) a model affiliated to a well know secret agent movie franchise. If that seems extravagant (and it should) the standard strap is marginally less shocking at £170!
How are we defining a Military Nylon Strap?
It is a single pass or double pass overlong strap most likely with a metal buckle and if made from some type of fabric. It gives the appearance when fitted of a classic British military issue strap which has been used since the 1970s. There is a wide range of these straps which are inspired by military issue models, movies and real adventures. These straps are wonderfully versatile and can instantly dress up or down a watch depending on what style, and most important colour, is selected. We have a new range of these straps which are actually called 1973 straps and we are delighted to feature one here in our top five suggestions.
WatchGecko Top 5 Military Nylon Straps
No.5 ZULUDIVER British Military Watch Strap: INFANTRY
ZULUDIVER British Military Watch Strap: INFANTRY - Credit WatchGecko
The Zuludiver British Military Watch Strap: Infantry is a remarkable and rugged accessory designed for those seeking reliability and durability in their timepiece. Crafted with precision and attention to detail, this watch strap pays homage to the esteemed British military tradition. Constructed from high-quality nylon material, the Infantry strap exhibits exceptional strength, making it resistant to wear and tear even in the most demanding conditions. Its distinctive design features stainless steel hardware, adding a touch of sophistication and ensuring a secure fit to any wrist size. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or an everyday enthusiast, the Zuludiver British Military Watch Strap: Infantry is the perfect complement to your watch, guaranteeing both style and practicality for any occasion.
No.4 Ridge British Military Watch Strap
Military Ridge on Vertex M100 - Credit WatchGecko
The Ridge design offers a chance to give your watch a classic vintage look with a contemporary twist. This premium level strap has a subtle ribbed texture to the nylon, deliberately designed to pay homage to vintage military webbing.
The buckle and keepers are fashioned from stainless steel, and the keeper nearest the buckle is floating so that you can adjust it to suit the amount of excess nylon you have.
This strap, which is available in multiple colours is especially recommended for Field and Tool Watches which will benefit from the enhanced military look.
No.3 Octopod Strap System
Octopod on Squale - Credit WatchGecko
Yes technically one could argue that this is not a true military nylon but it does look like a single pass strap when fitted and that’s why it can be included. The principle difference is that the Octopod gives you a larger buckle area which sits comfortably on the wrist and gives a better 360 degree aesthetic for larger steel watch heads.
The strap is one of the most innovative available today and has been called the most advanced dive strap in the world today. The material allows the Octopod to move with your writs and compress and expand in line with your decompression routine.
No.2 Classic Bond Strap
Classic Bond on Rolex Oyster Perpetual - Credit WatchGecko
This is to many the quintessential strap of the genre and was always going to be a prime contender for the top slot. It is a classic interpretation of the strap taking inspiration from a very famous source.
The strap is as robust as its fictional reputation and has been a mainstay of the product portfolio for over a decade. We mused in a recent feature that maybe every watch looked better on a Bond strap and whilst that was semi-serious the unalterable fact is that this strap looks fabulous any black or steel tool watch; instantly giving it a rugged professional look.
No.1 Signature Military Nylon Watch Strap
Signature Military on Omega Speedmaster - Credit WatchGecko
The Signature military watch strap perfectly blends military heritage and wearability. The 1.25mm thick nylon is supple making it comfortable on the wrist, while the bespoke tight weave leaves it incredibly strong and durable.
The hardware on the Signature is brushed stainless steel which matches a wide variety of cases and the solid buckle is strong enough to stand up to wear and tear. The keeper nearest the buckle is a floating keeper that can move to suit the length of the excess strap that needs to be secured. A 21st Century manufacturing process combining laser and ultrasonic technology is used to fashion adjustment holes which will never pull out of shape.
This is a flagship strap which has been designed without compromise yet is available at a fraction of the price of other straps we could mention.
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