I think it adds to the stealth look and all but disappears in person due the black ceramic finish when wearing the watch.. I think it gives it a very military look and adds a very sturdy and durable feel to the watch when wearing it on your wrist. Remember the pics are taken with a macro lens and that tends to accentuate the size of the buckle. BTW..the strap is Kevlar and stiff , not a nylon pliable NATO.