How To Put Nato Strap On Omega Speedmaster?

How to Put a NATO Strap on an Omega Speedmaster

The Omega Speedmaster is an iconic timepiece, renowned for its association with space exploration and its classic design. One way to personalize and enhance the comfort of your Speedmaster is by swapping out the traditional bracelet or leather strap for a NATO strap. NATO straps are known for their durability, versatility, and ease of use. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to put a NATO strap on your Omega Speedmaster.

Tools and Materials Needed:

- Omega Speedmaster watch

- NATO strap

- Spring bar tool (or a small flathead screwdriver)

- Soft cloth or watch mat

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare Your Workspace

Before you begin, ensure you have a clean, soft surface to work on. This will prevent any scratches or damage to your watch. A soft cloth or a dedicated watch mat is ideal.

2. Remove the Existing Strap or Bracelet

To attach the NATO strap, you first need to remove the existing strap or bracelet from your Speedmaster.

- Locate the Spring Bars: The spring bars are small metal rods that hold the strap or bracelet in place. They are located between the lugs of the watch.

- Use the Spring Bar Tool: Insert the forked end of the spring bar tool between the lug and the strap. Gently push the tool towards the watch case to compress the spring bar.

- Release the Spring Bar: While compressing the spring bar, carefully pull the strap away from the watch case. Repeat this process on the other side to completely remove the strap or bracelet.

3. Inspect the Spring Bars

Once the original strap is removed, inspect the spring bars for any signs of wear or damage. If they are bent or damaged, it’s advisable to replace them with new ones to ensure the security of your NATO strap.

4. Attach the NATO Strap

Now that the original strap is removed, you can attach the NATO strap.

- Thread the Strap: Start by threading the long end of the NATO strap through the top lug (the 12 o’clock position) from the front of the watch.

- Pull Through: Pull the strap all the way through until the watch head is positioned on the strap.

- Thread Through the Bottom Lug: Next, thread the strap through the bottom lug (the 6 o’clock position) from the back of the watch.

- Adjust the Position: Adjust the position of the watch head on the strap so that it sits comfortably and centrally.

5. Secure the Strap

NATO straps typically have an additional piece of fabric and a set of metal keepers to secure the strap.

- Thread Through the Keepers: Take the long end of the strap and thread it through the metal keepers.

- Fold and Tuck: Fold the excess strap back and tuck it under the keepers for a secure fit.

6. Adjust for Comfort

Once the NATO strap is attached, put the watch on your wrist and adjust the strap for comfort. Ensure that the watch sits snugly but not too tight. The beauty of a NATO strap is its adjustability, so take your time to find the perfect fit.

7. Final Check

After adjusting the strap, give your watch a final check to ensure everything is secure. Make sure the spring bars are properly seated and the strap is threaded correctly through the lugs and keepers.

Benefits of Using a NATO Strap on Your Omega Speedmaster

Durability

NATO straps are made from high-quality nylon, making them incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. This makes them an excellent choice for everyday wear and outdoor activities.

Versatility

NATO straps come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, allowing you to easily change the look of your Speedmaster. Whether you prefer a classic black strap or a bold, colorful design, there’s a NATO strap to suit your style.

Comfort

The soft, flexible material of NATO straps provides a comfortable fit on the wrist. Unlike metal bracelets, NATO straps are lightweight and breathable, making them ideal for hot weather or active lifestyles.

Security

One of the key features of a NATO strap is its design, which threads through both spring bars. This means that even if one spring bar fails, the watch will remain securely attached to your wrist. This added security is particularly beneficial for those who lead active lifestyles or work in demanding environments.

Swapping out the original strap or bracelet of your Omega Speedmaster for a NATO strap is a simple and effective way to personalize your watch. With just a few tools and a bit of patience, you can easily attach a NATO strap and enjoy the benefits of enhanced comfort, durability, and versatility. Whether you’re looking to change up the look of your watch or simply want a more secure and comfortable strap, a NATO strap is an excellent choice for your Omega Speedmaster.