Watch Strap Size Guide

Find You Ideal Strap Size In Minutes

Finding the perfect fit shouldn’t be a guessing game. Whether you are refreshing a classic timepiece or upgrading your daily diver, getting the lug width right is the most important step for both comfort and style. This quick guide will walk you through the simple process of measuring your watch so you can shop our collection with total confidence.

How Do I Find My Perfect Strap Width?

Please refer to the guide below to find the correct strap width for your watch. Using the wrong size can lead to a loose fit or even damage your watch lugs.

An instructional graphic titled "WATCH STRAP SIZE GUIDE" explaining two ways to find the correct watch strap size. The first option shows the underside of a brown leather strap with "20mm" printed on it. The second option shows a silver watch case being measured with a metric ruler, indicating a 20mm distance between the inner watch lugs. The text provides step-by-step instructions for checking old strap markings or measuring lug width with a ruler or calipers.

Perfect Fit Check List:

  • Measure Exactly: Our straps are true-to-size. Order the exact millimeter width your lugs measure.
  • Zero Mark: Always align the “0” mark of your ruler (not the physical edge) with the inside of the lug to ensure accuracy. A 1mm error can result in the wrong size or poor fit.
  • Trust the measurement: We stock 19mm and 21mm widths. If your watch measures an odd size, order that exact width. There is no need to size up or down.
  • No half sizes: Most watches use even numbers; if you measure 19mm, look for a specialized 19mm strap rather than squeezing in a 20mm.
  • Buckle Taper: If you plan to reuse your original buckle, check the “Buckle Width” in our product specs, as many straps taper toward the end.
  • Hardware Included: Every strap comes with a fresh set of spring bars. Quick-release straps come with bars pre-installed, while standard straps include a pair of regular spring bars for a secure fit.

— A precise measurement ensures your watch stays securely on your wrist and looks proportional.

Common Size Guide

If you don’t have a ruler handy, many brands follow standard sizing conventions based on the watch style:

  • 18mm & below: Common for vintage pieces and smaller women’s watches.
  • 20mm: The industry standard for most modern dress and sport watches.
  • 22mm: Typically found on larger divers, chronographs, and pilot watches.
  • 24mm & above: Reserved for oversized or “extra-large” tactical timepieces.

— While this chart is a helpful guide, we always recommend measuring your lugs to ensure the size is correct.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is watch lug width?

Lug width is the internal distance between the two “horns” or lugs of the watch case where the strap attaches. This measurement determines the width of the strap you need.

Can I use a 20mm strap on 19mm lugs?

No, you should never “squeeze” a larger strap into smaller lugs. It can cause the spring bars to fail or damage the strap material. Always order the exact millimeter width your watch measures.

Do I measure the watch case or the old strap?

It is always best to measure the distance between the lugs on the watch case itself. While some straps have the size printed on the back, these markings can fade or be inaccurate due to leather stretching over time.

What if my watch measures an odd size like 19mm or 21mm?

While 18mm, 20mm, and 22mm are the most common, many brands use odd sizes. We stock a wide range of both common and odd sizes to ensure you get a perfect fit without having to size up or down.


Still Unsure?

Please send watch brand and model, or a photo of your watch with a ruler across the lugs to support@watchadditions.com. We’ll confirm the size for you!


Browse Our Range Of Watch Straps

ACCOUNT
Wishlist
Login
Create an account

A link to set a new password will be sent to your email address.

three × four =

Your personal data will be used to support your experience throughout this website, to manage access to your account, and for other purposes described in our privacy policy.

Password Recovery

Lost your password? Please enter your username or email address. You will receive a link to create a new password via email.

11 − nine =

TOP
SHOPPING BAG 0
Added to wishlist! VIEW WISHLIST