How to Siza a Classic Watch Strap

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.