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How to Measure a Classic Watch Strap

Measure the key dimensions of your existing strap or watch in millimetres before selecting a replacement.

Classic watch strap measurement diagram
01

Strap width / lug width

The most important measurement is the width of the strap at the watch end. This is the part of the strap that connects to the watch.

Measure the width of the strap where it fits between the watch lugs, or measure the distance between the inside edges of the lugs themselves.

The strap width must match the lug width of the watch.
Lug width Required strap width
18 mm 18 mm
20 mm 20 mm
22 mm 22 mm

If you still have the original strap, check the underside before measuring. Many watch straps have their width or size stamped or printed on the inside.

02

Buckle width

If you intend to reuse the original buckle, measure the width of the strap at the buckle end.

Many classic watch straps taper towards the buckle. For example:

20 mm Watch end
×
16 mm Buckle end

The buckle width should correspond to the width of the strap at the buckle end.

Buckle prong / tongue width

The width of the buckle prong is also important when fitting an existing buckle to a replacement strap.

Buckle prongs vary in width. Some are relatively narrow, while others are considerably wider. The notch in the strap through which the prong passes must therefore be suitable for the buckle being fitted.

When reusing an existing buckle, check:
  • Buckle width
  • Buckle prong / tongue width
  • Width of the corresponding notch in the strap
03

Strap length

A standard watch strap consists of two separate sections: the longer strap section and the shorter section that carries the buckle.

Use a ruler to measure both sections separately.

120 mm Long section
/
75 mm Short section

Strap length is commonly stated using these two measurements. The buckle itself is not included in the strap length measurement.

When replacing an existing strap, measuring both sections of your current strap is usually the most reliable way to determine the correct replacement length.