Archer Classic Nylon NATO Strap, 20mm Black review
The cheap, sensible strap upgrade.
- Skip it if
- Your watch's lugs aren't 20 mm apart, or it has an integrated bracelet
as of 6 Nov 2026, 13:25 GMT · Details
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Researched, not used. We haven't used this product. This review is built from the maker's details and what other buyers report.
What we like
- One-piece nylon strap threads under the watch
- Watch stays on if a spring bar fails
- Easy way to change a watch's look
Worth knowing
- Only fits 20 mm lug width
- Needs ordinary spring-bar lugs
- Double layer can make a thin watch sit higher
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Our review
The Archer Classic Nylon NATO Strap in 20 mm black is a one-piece nylon strap that threads under the watch. If a spring bar fails, the watch stays attached to your wrist. It is a low-cost way to change the look of a watch. The catch is that it only fits watches with 20 mm lug width and ordinary spring-bar lugs, and the double layer under the case can make a thin watch sit higher.
What it is
This is a NATO-style strap in black nylon, sold by Archer. The NATO design comes from British military issue: a long strap passes behind the watch through both spring bars, with a keeper loop and a buckle on top. This version is 20 mm wide, meaning it suits a watch with 20 mm between the lugs. Black is the most versatile colour and works with most dials.
It is a basic, accessory-level item and not a specialist product.
Build and materials
The strap is woven nylon with metal hardware, normally steel or a coated metal, and the listing should show which. Nylon dries quickly, so it copes with sweat and swimming better than leather. The weave and the hardware finish determine how long the strap lasts, and these budget straps can fray at the ends or tarnish at the buckle after a time.
Hardware quality is where cheaper straps usually cut corners. Check the buckle and the keeper loops when it arrives.
Using it day to day
Slide the strap behind the spring bars, pass the tail through the buckle and adjust. The extra length means a long tail that must be tucked into the keepers. NATO straps add a layer under the watch, so the case sits slightly higher on the wrist, which suits chunky sports watches better than slim dress watches.
The big safety advantage is that if one spring bar breaks, the other layer of strap still holds the watch. Before buying, measure your watch's lug width: the 20 mm in the name has to match it. A strap does not suit watches with an integrated bracelet or unusual lugs.
Against the alternatives
Within the catalogue, the Archer Classic Nylon NATO Strap in olive is the same strap in a different colour, and the WatchGecko Standard Issue Nylon Strap 20mm is from a specialist and promises better hardware. For a different look, the Cobee Calfskin Leather Strap 20mm and the BISONSTRAP Oil Waxed Leather Strap 20mm are leather options.
The Archer is the sensible low-cost choice when you want to try a NATO before committing to a better one.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
It suits someone with a 20 mm field watch, diver or sports watch who wants a quick, secure and colourful change. It is also a good choice for swimming and holidays.
Skip it if your watch's lugs are not 20 mm apart, or if it has an integrated bracelet. Skip it too if you want a smart, dressy finish. The honest drawback is that the hardware at this level can be flimsy, and the double layer makes thin watches sit awkwardly.
A researched review, built from the maker's specs, manual and Amazon.co.uk listing; facts checked 6 Nov 2026.
Who shouldn't buy this
Don't buy it if your watch's lugs aren't 20 mm apart, or it has an integrated bracelet.
Key specs
| Movement | — |
| Calibre | — |
| Case | — |
| Thickness | — |
| Lug width | — |
| Water resistance | — |
| Crystal | — |
| Strap | — |
| Power reserve | — |
| Accuracy | — |
This is a Researched review: we haven't used this product. We check the maker's details against at least two independent sources, re-check the price where we can track it automatically, and say plainly who it isn't for. Commissions never change a rating.
If this isn’t the one
as of 6 Nov 2026, 13:25 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 13:25 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.