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How to Siza a Classic Watch Strap

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The correct strap length ensures that a classic watch strap fits comfortably and securely on your wrist. This guide explains how to determine the right strap length for your wrist.

How to size a classic watch strap for your wrist
01

Measure your wrist

Wrap a flexible measuring tape around your wrist where you normally wear your watch.

Keep the tape comfortably against the skin without pulling it tight and note the measurement in millimetres.

If you do not have a flexible measuring tape, use a strip of paper or non-stretch string. Mark where the ends meet, then measure the length against a ruler.

This measurement is your wrist circumference.
02

Measure the watch

The watch case forms part of the overall fit, so its length needs to be taken into account.

Measure from the outer end of the lugs at 12 o'clock to the outer end of the lugs at 6 o'clock.

This is the lug-to-lug measurement.
03

Calculate the required fit

Subtract the lug-to-lug measurement of the watch from your wrist circumference.

Wrist circumference − lug-to-lug measurement = required fitted strap length
180 mm Wrist circumference
−
45 mm Lug-to-lug
=
135 mm Required fitted strap length

The fitted strap length is the circumference provided by the strap when it is fastened.

This is not simply the combined length of the two strap sections, as the buckle, adjustment hole and overlap of the strap all affect the final fit.

04

Allow for adjustment

Most classic watch straps have several adjustment holes and are designed to fit a range of wrist sizes.

Ideally, the strap should fasten comfortably on one of the middle holes. This leaves room to adjust the strap slightly tighter or looser when required.

A middle adjustment hole can also provide a little more flexibility in the fit.

05

Use an existing strap

If your current strap fits well, it is usually the simplest reference for choosing the length of a replacement.

Measure both sections of the existing strap and choose a replacement with similar dimensions.

For instructions on measuring strap length, width and buckle dimensions, see our How to Measure a Classic Watch Strap guide.

06

Check the fit

A correctly sized strap should hold the watch securely without feeling tight.

You should normally be able to slide a fingertip between the strap and your wrist. The watch should remain comfortably in position during normal wear without the strap feeling restrictive.

A comfortable fit should allow:
  • The watch to remain secure on the wrist
  • A small amount of movement without excessive looseness
  • Minor adjustment tighter or looser when required
Related guide

If you need to determine the correct strap width or measure the length of an existing strap, see our How to Measure a Classic Watch Strap guide.

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Customer Testimonials

A reviewer
29/06/2025
This is the watch strap company I always come back to. They have a lovely selection of colours and grains and every order I’ve placed has been dispatched and received very quickly. Their pricing is very fair and if there’s an issue with a particular strap being out of stock they’re quick to get in touch with alternative options. To be fair I’ve only ever had a watch strap out of stock once, and it all went very smoothly. I like that the straps come with spring bars already fitted and there’s no minimum purchase required for free postage.
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Danielle R
25/06/2025
Lovely watch strap for an excellent price. It arrived the day after I ordered! The strap is sturdy and high quality, and fits my Garmin watch perfectly. I've been wearing it every day and it's comfortable and secure. And it's a small independent business, which is important to me.
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A reviewer
01/06/2026
I have bought many watch straps from SecTimes because they have a fantastic selection, the straps are very clearly pictured and described, the prices are very reasonable and the despatch is incredibly quick.
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Matt Done
31/05/2026
Nice price, good quality, second time purchasing this strap. First one lasted 7 years.
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A reviewer
06/05/2026
Excellent service, watchstrap sent out straight away, just as ordered, arrived within 1 day of ordering with spring bars included.
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P. Miners
21/04/2025
Found the ideal strap on this site and at a sensible price. Leather is nice and suits the watch. Good delivery too.
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Ber
21/04/2025
Good quality watch strap, good price, delivered quickly and well packaged. I thoroughly recommend
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A reviewer
14/02/2026
I ordered a lovely watch strap but misunderstood how it needed to be fitted to the watch so I needed to return and order an alternative which arrived today. The replacement is perfect. Staff very helpful when I called to explain my initial error. Delivery was quick. Would definitely recommend and buy again if need arises.
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