How To Mod A Nato To A "Bond" Strap

[UncleJay]

I'm sure most of you have done this, so it's really meant for the newbies. You all probably know this but the Bond strap isn't a Nato, it's a straight divers style without the extra piece under the case. The extra piece makes the watch sit too high and it's metal loop usually rubs against the case lugs. I was playing with my strap and decided to try to mod it, I think it looks better and it's really more comfortable. BTW, the watch doesn't slip though the strap because of the missing under slip piece.

Here you see the difference between a standard and Nato divers.

Here's a close-up of the extra piece that must go.

Cut the piece as close to the stitching as possible. Now simply cauterize the edge. I happen to have a desert torch, but a lighter will work. Keep the flame far from the edge and simply melt it to heal the edge.

Now remove the second metal strap keeper, it also likes to rub the case lugs. Simply cut it off, but you can just pull it apart as it not connected inside.

The strap will most likely be too long so it needs to be cut. Make sure you have enough strap to fit correctly and reach the last metal strap keeper. Use the factory finished end as a template to cut your custom finished end. Now simply cauterize your finished end and your done.

Now your Bond Nato will look correct.

[tmg]

Great idea and how to post UJ!

You inspired me; I did the same with a G10 Bond that's been sitting around, but I used the cut off piece to make a keeper instead. I sewed the extra piece together pulled the strap apart to remove the metal keepers and sewed new keeper in place.

BTW, how is your proper Bond strap project coming along? I'd buy a few of those in a heartbeat....

[hiker01]

Why do that instead of just buying a Bond like the two I have on the Black Sub and the GMT....cost? $12 each!

Not unless you have Nato straps laying around unused, then I understand the project!

[tmg]

Why do that instead of just buying a Bond like the two I have on the Black Sub and the GMT....cost? $12 each!

Not unless you have Nato straps laying around unused, then I understand the project!

Mine was sitting around and I wanted something without the chunkie hardware. I have too many G10, Zulu straps etc sitting around.

Timefactors also sells a straight Bond strap without the extra G10 piece.