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How to Measure Your Watch Strap Size: Lug Width, Length & Buckle Guide

by Mounia in Actualités

Choosing a watch strap without knowing the right measurements is like buying shoes without knowing your size. A strap that's too wide will wobble between the lugs; one that's too short will pinch your wrist uncomfortably. Whether you're shopping from our TST and Central boutiques in Hong Kong or browsing our online collection, this comprehensive guide will help you select the perfect fit every time.

Lug Width: The Most Important Measurement

The lug width is the distance in millimetres between the two lugs (horns) of your watch case, where the strap attaches. This is the single most critical measurement you need to know before purchasing any strap.

How to measure it: Place a rigid ruler (not a flexible tape measure) between the inner edges of both lugs. Measure to the nearest millimetre. The most common lug widths are 18mm, 19mm, 20mm, 21mm, 22mm, and 24mm.

Important: Don't rely on the case diameter alone. A 40mm watch can have a 20mm or 22mm lug width depending on the design. Only the actual measurement matters.

Common Lug Widths by Brand

  • Rolex Submariner, GMT-Master, Daytona: 20mm
  • Omega Speedmaster Professional: 20mm
  • Panerai Luminor: 24mm
  • Panerai Radiomir: 24mm or 26mm
  • Tudor Black Bay: 22mm (BB58: 20mm)
  • IWC Portugieser: 20mm or 22mm
  • Cartier Santos: proprietary system
  • Audemars Piguet Royal Oak: proprietary insert system

Not sure about your watch? Contact our team with a photo and we'll identify the correct size for you.

Wrist Circumference: Choosing the Right Length

The strap length must match your wrist circumference. Wrap a flexible tape measure around your wrist just above the wrist bone, without pulling too tight. Consider that your wrist size may vary slightly throughout the day.

Size Chart

Watch straps come in two parts: the long side and the short side. Here are the standard lengths:

  • Slim wrist (under 16cm / 6.3"): Short length — long side 105mm / short side 65mm
  • Average wrist (16–19cm / 6.3"–7.5"): Standard length — long side 115mm / short side 75mm
  • Large wrist (over 19cm / 7.5"): Long length — long side 120–130mm / short side 80mm

Most of our calf leather straps are available in multiple lengths to ensure a perfect fit for every wrist.

Buckle Width: A Detail That Matters

Most straps taper (narrow) between the lug and the buckle. For example, a 20mm strap at the lugs may be 16mm or 18mm at the buckle end. This taper ratio matters when you want to change the buckle: measure the strap width where the buckle sits, not at the lugs.

Common taper ratios: 20/16, 20/18, 22/18, 22/20, 24/22.

Special Cases: Watches with Insert Systems

Certain luxury timepieces like the Patek Philippe Nautilus, Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, and some Hublot models use proprietary attachment systems with metal inserts built into the strap. A standard strap cannot be fitted directly to these watches.

MisterChrono offers bespoke solutions with compatible inserts for these specific timepieces. We can either use our own proprietary inserts (available for the most popular references) or transfer the inserts from your original strap.

Types of Buckles

  • Pin buckle (tang buckle): The most classic and lightweight option. Simple, elegant, suits every style.
  • Single-fold deployant clasp: Unfolds to open. Protects the leather from daily bending and reduces wear.
  • Butterfly deployant clasp: Opens from both sides. The most comfortable and secure option, exceptional in both feel and function.

Acquire our complete range of buckles and clasps, including the KronoKeeper butterfly deployant.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I measure lug width without special tools?

Use a standard rigid ruler placed between the inner edges of both lugs. Measure to the nearest millimetre. Avoid flexible tape measures that can slip and give inaccurate readings. A digital calliper provides the most precise measurement if you have one available.

Can I fit a 20mm strap on a 21mm lug width?

A 1mm difference is generally acceptable — the strap will be slightly narrower, leaving a 0.5mm gap on each side. However, a 2mm or greater mismatch will be noticeable and may cause the strap to shift sideways, which can be both unsightly and uncomfortable.

Does strap length differ between men and women?

Yes. Women's wrists typically measure 14–16cm, while men's wrists range from 16–20cm. For smaller wrists, always opt for short-length straps (105/65mm) to avoid an unsightly excess of material beyond the buckle.

What if my watch has an unusual lug width like 19mm or 21mm?

These "odd" sizes are more common than you might think. Many of our straps are available in 19mm and 21mm widths. Alternatively, our bespoke service can create a strap in any width to perfectly match your timepiece.

Need help finding the right strap? Browse our complete selection or contact our experts for personalised advice. Free delivery in Hong Kong.

Tags: guide lug width measure wrist strap length watch strap size

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Best Strap for a Tudor Black Bay: Selection Guide

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The world of watchmaking is a field that combines precision and patience. Passionate about this world and luxury watches, four partners and friends decided in 2009 to found a company offering accessories related to fine watchmaking. This is how MisterChrono Paris was born.

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