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1973 British Military MoD Watch Strap
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Time to read 5 min
The Story
In 1973, the British Ministry of Defence (MoD) were challenged to design and provide to its military personnel a watch strap to withstand some of the harshest of conditions during combat duty.
The vision was clear, a watch strap that would conquer the humidity of tropical climates that often wreaked havoc on leather watch straps, avert the perils of shiny steel watch bracelets in covert military operations. Also they wanted to address the spring bar failures in the buckles and watches, which caused countless watches to meet an untimely demise.
Vertex watch fitted to 1973 Apex watch strap
Specification
These stringent requirements were defined and documented in the British Ministry of Defence (MoD) Standard 66-47/2. Within this comprehensive guideline, several key requirements emerged, which we have highlighted below.
Material: Admiralty grey woven 1.2mm thick nylon for durability and resilience. Free from additives which may act as an irritant.
Buckle: One-piece buckle design, integrated without spring bars, guaranteeing a seamless and irremovable method of fastening.
Construction: Heat-welded, fusing an inseparable bond to withstand even the most demanding conditions.
Sinn watch fitted to 1973 Apex watch strap
North Atlantic Treaty Organization
The design received an official North Atlantic Treaty Organisation Stock Number (NSN), a unique thirteen-digit identifier used to standardize and catalogue equipment across member countries. In this case, the NSN assigned to the design was 6645-99-124-2986, which is specifically used for items related to time-measuring instruments, such as watches or chronometers. This NSN allowed the British Army to track, order, and distribute the design through their store's requisition process efficiently. By assigning the item a NATO stock number, it became easier to ensure uniformity and standardization across military supply chains, simplifying logistics and ensuring that the correct equipment could be quickly sourced and deployed as needed.
1973 British Military Range
ZULUDIVER has been selling military watch straps for over a decade, and we are well-known worldwide for our high-quality military nylon watch bands.
The popularity of this style continues to grow, especially with those who are looking to find the perfect watch strap for their next adventure. These watch bands are quick and easy to change, and quick drying if they get wet. Here are some of our most popular styles.
1973 CADET
CADET collection is a time-honoured design that has withstood the test of time for over a decade.
Crafted with exceptional quality, this watch is a true testament to the durability and reliability that you can trust. Expertly constructed with 1.2mm sturdy nylon material, this watch is built to endure the toughest conditions, making it the perfect companion for any adventure.
The original nylon material combined with stainless steel hardware ensures that this range is not only stylish but also incredibly robust. Don't settle for run-of-the-mill when you can have the enduring elegance and strength of the ZULUDIVER CADET collection on your wrist.
1973 British Military Watch Strap: CADET Bond
1973 APEX
The Apex nylon is made from 100% polyester material, ensuring exceptional durability. It is long-lasting and environmentally friendly, reflecting our commitment to quality and sustainability.
Cutting-edge production techniques, including high-temperature and high-pressure dyeing, as well as filament twisting, to create the Apex nylon material. These methods result in vibrant, fade-resistant colours that maintain their brilliance over time.
1973 British Military Watch Strap: APEX - Titanium Grey
1973 HydraRib
the HydraRib—a premium strap crafted from 100% polyamide nylon, engineered for durability and style. Made using a core-spun technique on precision weaving machines, this strap boasts a distinct three-dimensional texture that not only looks great but feels incredible on the wrist.
The close-grain weave enhances its strength, making it resilient enough to handle daily wear while maintaining its sleek appearance. For those who value both quality and design in their watch straps, the HydraRib delivers on every front.
1973 British Military Watch Strap HydraRib
FAQs about NATO Watch Straps
What is a British Military watch strap?
A British Military watch strap is a durable and secure watch strap originally designed by the British Ministry of Defence in 1973. It was created to endure extreme conditions encountered in military operations, such as tropical humidity and covert missions. It’s made of strong nylon with a one-piece buckle design.
Why did the British Military design this watch strap?
The strap was designed to solve issues faced by military personnel, such as humidity-damaging leather straps, shiny steel bracelets compromising covert missions, and spring bar failures that caused watches to fall off. The NATO strap provided durability, reliability, and stealth.
What material is used for British Military watch straps?
These watch straps are made from 1.2mm thick Admiralty grey woven nylon, which is both durable and resilient. The material is free from additives that could irritate the skin.
How is a British Military watch strap constructed?
The original watch strap is constructed using a heat-welded process, which ensures a strong and inseparable bond, making it ideal for harsh conditions. The buckle is a one-piece design that integrates seamlessly without the need for spring bars. At ZULUDIVER we use a sewn construction as we have found this is a more durable design.
What is the significance of the stock number (NSN) 6645-99-124-2986?
The stock number (NSN) assigned to the watch strap standardizes it across member countries. This 13-digit identifier allows military organizations to track, order, and distribute the strap efficiently through their supply chains, ensuring uniformity and ease of procurement.
Can civilians use British Military straps?
Yes, these watch straps have become popular among civilians for their durability, comfort, and military heritage. Many watch enthusiasts use them for their everyday watches due to their practicality and stylish look.
What makes a British Military watch strap different from regular watch straps?
These watch straps are designed to be more secure and durable than regular straps. They use a one-piece design, so if a spring bar fails, the strap will still hold the watch in place. Regular straps often use two pieces and are more prone to failure if a spring bar breaks.
Are British Military watch straps only available in Admiralty grey?
While the original watch strap was Admiralty grey, modern versions come in a variety of colours and styles. However, the grey version remains a favourite due to its military roots.
How do I care for my military watch strap?
These watch straps are easy to maintain. Simply wash the nylon strap with mild soap and water, then let it air dry. They are built to withstand tough conditions, so minimal maintenance is needed.
Are military watch straps comfortable to wear?
Yes, the watch straps are designed for comfort as well as durability. The nylon material is lightweight and breathable, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods, even in hot and humid conditions.