How to choose watch size and strap length
The same watch can look just right on one person’s wrist and like a dinner plate on another’s. You cannot try on a watch when buying online, so it is worth taking a few measurements first. This guide explains how to choose a watch size for your wrist and get the strap length right.
1. Measure your wrist circumference
Use a tape measure or strip of paper to measure your wrist where you normally wear a watch, slightly above the wrist bone towards the elbow. If using paper, mark where the ends meet and measure the length with a ruler. Write down the measurement. You will need it to choose both case size and strap length.
2. Choose the case diameter
The case diameter is listed under ‘Technical information’ on each watch’s product page. The table below is a rule of thumb, not a strict rule. If you like a larger watch, feel free to choose one.
| Wrist circumference | Men’s watch | Women’s watch |
|---|---|---|
| under 15 cm | 36–38 mm | 26–32 mm |
| 15–17 cm | 38–41 mm | 30–36 mm |
| 17–19 cm | 40–44 mm | 34–38 mm |
| over 19 cm | 44 mm and above | 36–40 mm |
More important than diameter is the lug-to-lug length, measured from the outer tips of the lugs on one side to those on the other. If this extends beyond the edges of your wrist, the watch is too large, regardless of the diameter on the product page. A 48 mm watch with short lugs can therefore fit better than a 44 mm watch with long lugs.
3. Consider thickness
If you often wear a watch with a shirt, check the case thickness too. A thinner watch, up to around 10 mm, usually fits better under a cuff. Sports and diving watches are often 12–16 mm thick. They are durable, but can catch on sleeves. This measurement is also on the product page if the manufacturer has published it.
4. Strap: width and material
For a balanced look, the strap is usually around half the case diameter, for example a 20 mm strap on a 40 mm watch or a 22 mm strap on a 44 mm watch. This is a recommendation about proportions. When choosing a replacement strap, check the distance between the inner sides of the lugs and the attachment design; matching width alone does not guarantee compatibility. A very narrow strap on a wide case looks like a random replacement.
- A silicone or resin strap is comfortable and handles water well. The holes are closely spaced, and the length adjusts without tools.
- A leather strap is stiffer at first and moulds to your wrist over a couple of weeks. It does not like water, so it is unsuitable for swimming.
- Metal bracelet looks the dressiest, but usually needs shortening.
- Milanese mesh or metal mesh, uses a clasp and allows continuous length adjustment.
5. How do you get the strap length right?
You should be able to fit one finger under a correctly adjusted strap. If the watch slides up and down your arm, the strap is too loose. If the strap presses uncomfortably or leaves a deep mark, it is too tight. Wrist size varies slightly in the morning and in hot weather, so a little room is useful.
Metal bracelets are shortened by removing links. Links are secured with pins, screws or collars, so check which type you have first. The safest option is to have a watchmaker shorten the bracelet. With suitable tools, you can also do it yourself. Remove links so the clasp sits comfortably beneath your wrist, usually roughly equally from both sides, although the number need not be exactly equal on every bracelet. Keep the removed links, as you may need them later.
If the watch still does not fit
All our watches come with a 14-day right of return. If the watch feels too large or small on your wrist, you can return it (return postage is paid by the buyer). If you are deciding between two sizes, write to us at info@kaekellad.ee and include your wrist circumference – we will help you choose.
Also read: does your watch strap fit? and 5 style mistakes to avoid when wearing a watch.
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