Montblanc 1858 Monopusher Chronograph with beige NATO Strap
Cover Montblanc 1858 Monopusher Chronograph with beige NATO strap

Montblanc works with a ribbon manufacturer for its version of the NATO strap

Montblanc's partnership with Julien Faure to produce high-end NATO straps has given us a reason to revisit this rugged invention that has jazzed up the watch-wearing scene. Designed for practicality and durability, it was made of nylon fabric and originally developed by the British Ministry of Defence Standard in 1973.

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Montblanc 1858 Geosphere Limited Edition with khaki green NATO strap
Above Montblanc 1858 Geosphere Limited Edition with khaki green NATO strap

Fast forward to today, the NATO strap, which is famously but erroneously believed to have been worn by James Bond in Goldfinger, is now available in a plethora of dimensions, design and material. Staying true to it's origins, many NATO strap manufacturers such as Crown & Buckle and Zuludiver utilise durable materials such as nylon and canvas. There are also leather NATO straps. There is also now the option to choose the width of the strap to ensure a perfect fit.

Omega has offered exclusive NATO straps with a massive range of designs to choose from while Bremont's versions come in nylon, canvas, leather and vintage leather. NATO straps are popular for their versatility and comfort.

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Photo 1 of 4 The yarn getting ready to be weaved
Photo 2 of 4 Putting the yarn into the jacquard loom
Photo 3 of 4 Weaving the yarn into a NATO strap
Photo 4 of 4 Montblanc 1858 Automatic Chronograph with black and gray NATO strap

But Montblanc's partnership with fifth generation French ribbon manufacturer Julien Faure is one that promises to switch things up. Paired with Montblanc's vintage-inspired 1858 collection, the strap is made of textile ribbon using the jacquard shuttle weaving technique to create the different patterns.

And the advantages of the ribbon for the wearer? It dries quickly, is incredibly lightweight and extremely comfortable.

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