The bracelet, or band, is one of the most personal elements of any watch. It is also an integral part of the style and function. REEDS in-store professionals are happy to help customers select the proper size, but it is easy enough to measure your own wrist with a soft tape measure or by wrapping a string around the hand where you want the watch to sit.
Finding Your Perfect Fit
Before diving into specific styles, it’s crucial to understand the importance of proper sizing. A well-fitted watch band should allow for slight movement while preventing the watch from sliding around your wrist, often preferred for slim wrists. When measuring, consider that your wrist size can fluctuate throughout the day due to temperature and activity. It’s recommended to measure your wrist at different times to find the most comfortable fit.
NATO Style: The Versatile Classic
NATO straps have become one of the most popular watch bands available, and for good reason. These military-inspired straps offer a perfect combination of durability and style that lends a casual, sporty look to any timepiece. They’re also easy to swap in and out, making them a great accessory for everyday gents that want to add a pop of color or change up their style regularly.
NATOs are incredibly versatile, and they come in a variety of colors and patterns to suit any style. They also tend to be a little thicker than traditional leather straps, meaning that they provide extra protection for your watch from bumps and scratches. This makes them a great option for everyday wear, especially for men who tend to wear their watches in the gym or on active days out.
Top NATO Options
The Thrifty Gentleman has a wide selection of NATOs from several fan-favorite strap makers, so it’s easy to find the right match for your wrist and personal aesthetic. However, not all NATOs are created equal, and some of them stand out above the rest. The best NATO straps boast a tight weave and durable hardware, as well as an adjustable second keeper that allows you to fold back excess strap for a clean finish.
Our favorite NATO is the Maratac, which offers a superior nylon weave and exceptional hardware at an affordable price. Another top NATO strap is the ToxicShiznit, which features a slightly looser weave but an even more comfortable fabric texture and better hardware. This strap is slightly pricier than the Maratac, but it is still a fantastic option for anyone looking for a quality NATO that won’t break the bank.
The Phenomenato is another excellent NATO that offers a similar experience to the ToxicShiznit. While the hardware on this strap is not quite as flawless as that on the ToxicShiznit, it is still an excellent option for those who prefer a more standard, striped NATO design. Crown & Buckle’s collection of NATO straps is also worth considering, offering vast options in terms of color-way and material thickness, including genuine double-pass NATO designs.
Sporty Style: Beyond the Basics
The best 18mm watch band for sporty watches is a leather strap that blends in with the rest of the piece. Molequin’s taupe leather strap exemplifies this perfectly, combining versatility and style in a smooth pebble-grained design. Available in various widths (17mm to 22mm) and colors, it features quality hardware that feels more premium than its competitors.
Premium Leather Options
The Windup Watch Shop’s Wyckoff represents another quality leather choice that doesn’t break the bank. It’s easy to attach via spring bars and stretches very well, making it more comfortable on the wrist than other leather straps. Like the Sackett, this option includes a 19mm variant, which isn’t as common with third-party bands. It also comes with a delightful leather smell and quality construction that speaks to its craftsmanship.
While NATOs aren’t typically associated with leather straps, David Lane’s Mil-Spec Strap challenges conventions with its Horween shell cordovan or calf suede construction, making it perfect for pairing with chronographs and pilot’s watches. The strap’s polished stainless steel hardware elevates the overall appearance of the piece.
Care and Maintenance
To ensure your watch band maintains its appearance and durability, proper care is essential. For NATO straps, regular washing with mild soap and water can keep them fresh and prevent odor buildup. Leather straps require different care – avoid water exposure and use leather conditioning products periodically to prevent cracking and maintain suppleness.